When it comes to knowing what to pack for college it can seem super daunting especially if you’re going somewhere far away from home like I did because I couldn’t just pop home over the weekend to grab something. It’s best to think about how long you’ll be there before you can go home to get clothes for the next season and make sure to bring these closet staples along with you. Now *disclaimer* I would definitely suggest bringing some closet essentials like your basic tees, yoga pants, sneakers, jeans, etc. These are your more stylish statement pieces that will be wardrobe staples in college you might not think to pack initially!
1. Jean Jacket
This is perfect to transition between seasons whether that’s summer to fall or winter to spring this can carry you through those transitional times when the weather is “not too hot, not too cold…all you need is a light jacket”! 😉
2. Puffer Vest
This is another transitional piece that is super versatile. You can wear this with jeans and riding boots or you can wear it with those yoga pants over a hoodie. Keeps you warm and it goes with a ton of different outfits.
3. Trench Coat
This is perfect for a night out when it gets cooler so you can wear a layer if necessary. Another great way to wear a trench coat is over your dress or work outfit if you have a job or internship that requires business casual or business attire. Adding this will definitely polish off your look! It also pairs nicely with jeans and loafers for a casual on the go ensemble.
4. Baseball Hat
You need this for the morning’s you have that 8am class and you’re out of dry shampoo!
5. Button-up Blouse
Wear it with shorts, jeans, a pencil skirt… literally this can go with anything and it can be worn alone or under some nice layers. This is perfect to wear with a nice pencil skirt for interviews or presentations! Start your collection now because as you get older you’ll wind up owning this in five colors.
6. Blazer
Please, if you don’t bring anything else on this list PLEASE pack a blazer to bring with you to college. Wear this to interviews, presentations, internships, job fairs, chapter meetings (in my sorority we had to dress up for these), etc. I wear blazers with jeans and a striped top like this outfit HERE, but it’s so important to have a great blazer in your wardrobe!
7. Riding Boots
These are my favorite shoe invention ever! I think they look great with jeans, pencil skirts, dresses, you name it! Perfect to thrown on with any outfit during fall and winter months.
8. Ankle Boots
For those days you want to break up your riding boot and snow boot usage, I give you the ankle boot! I wear these with dresses in the spring and jeans (cuffed) all other times of the year.
9. Loafers
I personally think these are ballet flats more sophisticated sister. Wear these to internship or to class these can carry you through the non-snowing seasons.
10. Large Tote Bag
Possibly the most important item after your blazer is your tote bag. Some people like backpacks, but I preferred carrying a purse. This one I used in college and was able to fit a textbook or two along with my notebook and laptop. It’s super cute and sophisticated and under $200. This should last you a few years of every day use. I found when I bought cheaper totes they would wear easily from so much use so when I invested in this one it lasted so much longer!
Happy packing and happy moving to all my readers headed off to college!
