Most incoming freshmen don’t have the funds to buy a completely new wardrobe for their first year of college. But there are a few simple things you can do to make your current clothes look more college-appropriate.
Accomplish your other pre-college tasks
Before diving into the closet of your dreams, be sure you have the essential pre-college tasks checked off your to-do list. This means meeting with your college advisor, submitting any forms or documentation your school requires, and purchasing your necessities for classes and your dorm. By completing these essential pre-college tasks, you’ll be one step closer to having the college experience of your dreams–and getting to dress the part.
Purge your existing closet
There are a plenty of reasons why now is the time to get rid of those clothes you never wear. The first step is to go through all your clothes and separate them into three piles: keep, donate, and trash. Be honest with yourself as you go through each item. If you haven’t worn it in over a year, chances are you’re not going to wear it in college. Donate anything that’s still in good condition to a local charity or consignment shop. And get rid of any old clothes that are stained, ripped, or otherwise damaged.
Find your organizational must-haves
Now that you’ve gotten those tasks out of the way, you can turn your attention to your wardrobe. For starters, invest in some good quality hangers. Hanging clothes properly helps them look neater and takes up less space in your closet. You may also want to try reorganizing your closet so that it’s more logical for you. If you’re short on space, consider using storage containers or bins to store clothes that you don’t wear often.
Choose versatile pieces
When you’re getting dressed for class, it’s important to choose clothes that are comfortable and won’t distract you from your studying. However, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! There are a number of versatile pieces that can easily take you from a day in class to a night out on the town. For example, jeans are a good choice for both class and a night out. They’re comfortable and can be dressed up or down, depending on the accessories you choose. A T-shirt is another great option that can be dressed up or down. You can wear it with a skirt or dress for a more formal look, or with jeans and sneakers for a more casual ensemble.
Add some ethical accessories
When selecting jewelry and accessories for your college wardrobe, it is important to consider the overall ethical impact of your choices. Many young people are progressive and want to wear pieces that reflect their values, so it is important to find accessories that are made ethically. When you wear ethical jewelry and accessories, you are sending a message that you care about the planet and the people who make your clothes. By choosing necklaces, bracelets, and other ethical jewelry, you can show the world that you are a young person who is committed to making a difference.
Consider your campus climate
In order to make the best clothing choices for your college campus, you first need to consider the climate. If you’re attending school in a colder climate, you’ll need to pack a coat, scarf, and warm boots. If you’re attending school in a warmer climate, you’ll want to choose clothes that are light and airy, such as skirts and shorts.
Factor in your activities
You should also think about the activities you’ll be participating in on campus. If you’re going to be playing a lot of sports, you’ll need clothes that are comfortable and allow you to move freely. If you’ll be doing a lot of walking, you’ll want to choose shoes that are supportive and comfortable.
By following these tips, you can make your current wardrobe look more college-appropriate. And with a little bit of creativity, you can still create outfits that are stylish and unique.