Although it’s summer, there’s nothing wrong with thinking ahead and planning for college in the fall. You might be looking at your closet thinking: What clothes should I bring to college with me? Even if you feel like you don’t have many pieces of clothing, deciding what to pack in your suitcase can still be difficult. You want options, but you also don’t want to overpack. I don’t know about you, but I have times where I’m holding a specific or niche statement piece and justify bringing it to college because there’s a chance I’ll need it for a Halloween costume. News flash! I probably won’t.
One of the greatest things about college is that there are always events going on. This means having many occasions to dress for. There are going to be parties, job fairs, recruitment socials, and so many other things to look forward to in college. Being in a new environment like your college campus can be scary, too. To ease the back-to-school scaries, think of it as an opportunity to reinvent your style. My No. 1 tip for stocking your college wardrobe is to bring things you love and you know that you’re going to wear. Here are 12 closet essentials you should bring to college with you this fall.
Tops
You’ll need a number of tops in different styles for school, including blouses, sweaters, tank tops, T-shirts, and workout tops. A basic white tank can be paired with almost anything. Bring a formal blouse for when you need to get down to business. Celebrate the end of a long week with going out in a dressy top. Work out in comfortable activewear like a sports bra.
Fogler Shirt, Princess Polly, $45
Bottoms
Pair your tops with versatile bottoms. Denim jeans are staple pieces and can go with anything. For more formal occasions, step it up with some fancy trousers. Flared leggings are great for working out or going to class. If you’re looking for a great versatile bottom piece, I recommend throwing a maxi skirt in your suitcase.
OFFLINE By Aerie OG High Waisted Flare Legging, American Eagle, $24
SHOES
Having four to six pairs of shoes with you at school is all you really need. A white sneaker is perfect for heading to your lectures. Step into your internship office with loafers. If you plan to go out with your besties, bring some platform boots. You can’t forget your workout sneakers for all the hot girl walks you’re going to take. Also pack a pair of sandals for hot days or trips to the campus pool.
Original Universal Sandal, Teva, $55
Jackets
Jackets frame your entire look. Hoodies are perfect for the late-night snack runs you’re bound to have with your roomies. A leather jacket is great for both casual and going-out looks. For a more professional look, bring an oversized blazer. If you go to college in a colder area, zip up with a warm fleece jacket.
Full-Zip Hoodie, Hollister, $17
BELTS
Belts are the unsung heroes of a well-put-together outfit. They’re a small accessory that make a huge difference. Oval silver chain belts are cute accessories to wear both casually or formally. Black belts are super functional, and pair really well with any outfit.
Women’s Leather Belt with Gold Buckle, CHAOREN CR, $16
HATS
Wear a beanie for those cold walks to campus in the morning. Baseball caps are perfect for sunny study days in the quad. For extra sun protection, throw on a cowgirl hat for Sunday brunch with your besties.
Tamra Cap, Princess Polly, $8
Dresses
Long-sleeve dresses are versatile pieces for formal and casual wear. For a more relaxed look, pack a mini babydoll dress. If you plan to attend any formals, a maxi dress is a great dressy option.
Blair Babydoll Dress, Garage, $25
VESTS
Vests are a great layering piece to throw on over your outfit. They’re also super cute to wear to work. (This Topshop vest is giving cool intern.) Loose-fitting vests are comfortable layering pieces to elevate your look.
Vest, Topshop, $41
SWIMWEAR
Relaxing by the pool is my favorite way to wind down from the school week. Don’t forget to pack your favorite swimsuit and beach cover up in your suitcase.
Women’s Wide Ribbed Center Ring Medium Coverage One Piece Swimsuit, Kona Sol, $40
LEISUREWEAR
When you get some down time from your busy college schedule, don’t forget to make time for yourself to relax and chill. A stretchy onesie is easy to throw on, and it’s perfect for those lazy days in.
PowerChill Cami Bodysuit, Old Navy, $18
Bags
As a busy college student, you’re going to be carrying stuff to and from campus. If you love having everything you need at arm’s length, consider a more functional bag like a backpack. Tote bags are great if you’re carrying light items like a laptop or notebook. When the weekend hits, you might want to go for a more stylish option like a baguette purse. Fanny packs are super convenient bags for people who love a shoulder-free option.
Freshman Backpack, DICKIES, $30
JEWELRY
Let’s talk about accessories. Hoop earrings are a must, and they go with everything. If you’re planning to attend formal events, definitely put a statement necklace in your jewelry box. Ring sets are super flexible options because they allow you to wear more or less depending on the vibe you’re going for.
Rosette Cord Wrap Choker Necklace, Urban Outfitters, $15