Another year, another chance to slay with your killer style. Whether you’re a newbie to the campus scene or coming back to conquer that syllabus, putting together a fresh look is the perfect way to boost your confidence…

With classes starting soon, it’s time to start putting that college wardrobe together. But where to start? Creating a college wardrobe means finding pieces that balance style, comfort, and practicality. That alone sounds pretty daunting. Deep breath. We’ve got you. By focusing on just a few key areas, our Editors have put together some fantastic fits with pieces that won’t break the bank, play nicely with items you already have, and will have you looking A+ ready for campus.

VERSATILE BASICS

First off, let’s talk base outfits. These are the staple pieces you’ll probably have one or more on pretty much everyday.

# 1 – THE BASIC TEE

Starting with the momma-of-all essentials, the basic tee. Here’s three of our faves.

Michael Stars, Mady Supima Tee $68

Twice as strong as regular cotton and grown sustainably in California, SUPIMA® cotton is made to last. This one features a classic length (tuck it in, wear it out or knot it up), a body-skimming size that’s not too tight or boxy, and comes in sizes 0 up to 18.

Windsor, Effortlessly Cute Cutout Tie-Back Striped Crop Top $28.90

Made from rib knit stretchy material, this cropped top comes with a cute tie-back and a neutral stripe that will pretty much go with everything in your closet.

Mott & Bow, Marcy Fitted Crew Tee $40

Silky soft Peruvian cotton that’s lightweight and preshrunk (so zero worry this fitted tee won’t…ahem…fit, wash after wash) this is a tee you can dress up or down all year long.

#2 – THE JEAN

Runner up in the number two slot, we have your other everyday mainstay – blue jeans. Here are three options you should add to your syllabus

Rewash, Faux Denim Wide Leg Pants $24

The perfect wide leg pant for getting you through the semester in style.

Windsor, High-Rise Distressed Boyfriend Jeans $42.90

Prefer a curvy fit? Go for these high-rise waist, boyfriend style jeans in that goldilocks, medium-wash color that goes with everything.

Levi’s, ’94 Baggy Jeans $55.65 (on Sale NOW from $79)

Finally, when in doubt, go for the GOAT. Mid-rise, loose leg and classic blue wash.

#3 – THE SHORT BOTTOM

Next up on the list are cute, short bottoms. Whether you prefer shorts, skorts, mini skirts, or all three, these will be your lifesavers when the temps hit high.

Wallflower, Denim Bling Pocket Shorts $18

A solid pair of jean shorts should be an absolute must. Look for something in a neutral wash, short inseam and just a touch of stretch. Looking for some extra credit? Get a pair with just a touch of zhuzh, like these tiny rhinestone embellishments.

Windsor, Cadet Girlie Mid-Rise Belt Camouflage Mini Skirt $36.90

All neutrals and no patterns makes Jane a dull girl. Shake things up with a flirty mini in an interesting pattern, like this cargo-inspired, camo skirt. Plus srsly, who can say no to pockets?

Windsor, Practical Charm High Rise Zipper Pleated Denim Skort $36.90

Finally, for the best of both worlds, skorts are the perfect combo of flirty and confidence. This one features the one-two punch of pleats and oh-so-on-trend marvelous mauve.

LOVE THOSE LAYERING PIECES

After the basics, stocking up on quality layering pieces is the next key element. These can include anything from sweaters to blazers, jackets to hoodies.

#1 – THE SUMMER WEIGHT SWEATER

Starting with our lightweights category, the airy sweater.

Rebellion, Two-Tone Crochet Long Sleeve Top $20

Add a little flower power to your fit game without getting too hot under the collar.

Windsor, Cozy Knit Long Sleeve Bolero $29.90

When it’s hot outside but the classroom’s chilly, just a little cozy on the shoulders will do.

Rebellion, Cherry Crochet Long Sleeve Cardigan $20

Breezy by itself, but just add a long sleeve underneath and your autumn ready.

#2 – THE MID-WEIGHT OUTER PIECE

Speaking of autumn, when the leaves start officially falling, it’s time to level up.

Windsor, Cool Girl Trends Crop Bomber Denim Jacket $54.90

The perfect mid-weight piece…is it any wonder bombers are trending hard?

Cotopaxi, Do Good Pullover Hoodie $49

(on Sale NOW from $70)

There are good hoodies and then there’s this Good hoodie. Made from a blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester that next-levels your comfort and goes a little easier on the planet. Bonus – it’s manufactured in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory.

 

Boston Proper, Beyond Travel Classic Boyfriend Blazer $120

What makes this possibly the best blazer you will ever buy? Let’s tick those boxes shall we – perfect neutral color that works for every season, a roomy but tailored boyfriend cut, it’s made from a soft, four-way stretch fabrication that’s wrinkle-resistant and packable, and last but not least…it’s machine wash-and-wear. Any questions?

#3 – THE WINTER HEAVY WEIGHT

Finally, when that winter wind gets serious, you need some serious help.

WeWoreWhat, Vegan Leather Bomber Jacket $45.99

Oversized with plenty of room for layering, this bomber is made from vegan leather and faux sherpa.

Helly Hansen, Nora Crop Puffy Jacket $165

Waterproof and made for snowboarding and skiing, you’d better believe this cropped puffy will keep you plenty warm.

Alo Yoga, Oversized Faux Sherpa Trench $298

Calling all Mob Wives – this oversized, plush faux sherpa trench will definitely take up some closet space. But if your campus falls in the cold climate zone, this is a purchase you will not regret.

OCCASIONAL WEAR

As the name implies, these are the items you pull out for specific occasions. Social events, parties, networking events, interviews…you name it, you’re going to need them.

#1 – THE SHORT DRESS

First up, a rizz, short dress that works for squad nights, casual dates and parties. Here’s three that span the curriculum…

Windsor, Always Trending Strapless Striped Bodycon Mini Dress $39.90

Think the perfect trend-right dress doesn’t exist? This striped, fitted beauty begs to disagree. Add boots for drama, or keep it lowkey with sneaks. No wrong answers here.

Jolie & Joy, Tiered Denim Dress $18

Can’t get enough of the puff sleeve obsession? This flirty, smock top is all in for you.

Windsor, Sweet Perception Strapless Plaid Pleated Romper $39.90

Finally, this sweet plaid dress may well be the multi-tasker queen. Interview worthy with a blazer and tights, date night perfection with sneaks, or simply casual with slides…so many options.

#2 – THE CUTE TOP

Next up – To paraphrase: a collegiate gal cannot live by tee shirts alone, she also needs a cute top (or three…).

Windsor, Mood Set V-Neck Floral Velvet Pattern Mesh Top $21.90

A little sweet, a little sexy, this stretchy sheer mesh fabric top comes with a floral velvet burnout pattern and knit lining underneath. A true chameleon for both your daytime and nighttime activities.

SO, Adaptive Oversized Button Up Shirt $34

The oversized, white button up may rival the basic tee as Most Wanted Top this season. And it makes so much sense, since you can throw it on for elevating those casual looks, wear it as a lightweight second layer, and most importantly, this is your business outfit bestie for interviews, presentations and networking.

Windsor, Keep on Charming Plaid Linen Cropped Vest $32.90

Finally, let’s talk about the return of another business mainstay – the vest. This season we’re wearing them solo, under and over in so many combinations, it’s mind blowing. Solids have been leading the pack, but as we head into fall we’re seeing more pattern pushing. This pretty plaid version in neutral taupe is giving librariancore with a touch of office siren, and we’re here for it.

#3 – THE TWO-PIECE DRESS SET

When closet space is at a premium, versatility is key. A two-piece dress set gives you a polished, social-ready fit that can also be mixed and matched with your other closet items to exponentially expand your wardrobe.

Freshman 1996, Juniors Crochet Tank & Skirt Set $30

This creamy crochet set is perfect for your college special events, sorority open house and/or other times when you want to look just a little more elevated.

Micas, Solid Crop Tank & Split Skirt Set $25

The LBD has never been more versatile. Wear this two-piece set when the invite calls for a ‘dress to impress’ vibe. Separately, these pieces will definitely find their way into constant repeat.

Freshman 1996, Striped Crochet Tank & Shirt Set $30

All ruffles and stripes, this coquettish knit set will serve for your Sisterhood round, upscale homecoming events or anytime you want to look playfully chic.

FUNCTIONAL FOOTWEAR

#1 – DAILY WEAR COMFORT

Because classes don’t come to you, you’re absolutely going to want shoes that can handle pounding the pavement as you make your way around campus.

New Balance, BB8O Athletic Shoe $54.99 (on Sale NOW from $75)

Clean, classic and sporty, the NB BB80 is one of the most popular shoes right now for a reason. The white on white matches with so many outfits, the sole is substantial but not overly-chunky, durable uppers stand up to daily wear and tear, and true to the brand, the cushioned insole and padded collar make blisters a total non-starter.

Birkenstock, Womens Arizona Sandals $110

Speaking of classics, if you don’t already own a pair of Arizonas now is the time to buy. Over fifty years of German engineering has gone into these sandals, including a contoured cork-latex footbed that molds to your individual footprint over time, a grippy rubber sole for confident stepping and of course, that iconic design.

UGG, Classic Mini Platform Boot $180

There IS a reason these keep selling out, and it’s not just Bella Hadid and Elsa Hosk’s fault (okay, but maybe just a *little* bit too). College dorm and classroom floors are notoriously glacial in temperature. These scrumptious fellows will keep those cold feet at bay all day.

#2 – DRESS THINGS UP

For those times when you actually want people to look at your feet.

Beach, Jerry Vegan Sandals in Champagne $55

The ultimate go-with-everything nude sandal has arrived.

Matisse, Fleur Ballet Flats $110

Followed by the perfect, pointed toe ballet flats.

G.H. Bass, Whitney Super Lug Weejuns Loafer $185

And finished with the one and only Weejuns, updated for 2024 with extra luggy soles and F/W’s “it” color – burgundy.

#3 – WEATHER APPROPRIATE

Because snow, rain and ice aren’t exactly nice.

Easy Street, Tucker Tall Boot $114.99

The perfect knee-high tall boot doesn’t ex….

Helly Hansen, Adel Rain Boot $80

When singing “rain, rain, go away” doesn’t help…these fully waterproof booties will.

Palladium Boots, Pallabase Nubuck Zip WL $140

Water resistant on the outside, breathable synthetic wool lining on the inside, solid super-grip rubber soles and stylish AF…winter doesn’t stand a chance.

GARMENTS FOR GOBLIN MODE

Our final area of focus – for those times when all you wanna do is chill.

#1 – THE ONE AND DONE

Roxy, Just Passing By Smocked Jumpsuit $66

Weekend lounging, late night cram sessions, or anytime your ‘let’s get dressed’ motto turns into ‘let’s don’t’, this oversized, uber-comfy jumpsuit understands the assignment.

LAKE Pajamas, Pima Cotton Ruffle Shorts Set $90

This 100% Pima Cotton sleep set is definitely making a strong case to hit that snooze again…

Alo Yoga, Muse Hoodie $108 and Sweatpants $108

Because you may at some point have to talk to someone, even if it’s just the pizza delivery guy.