Though I’ve been out of school for a few years, August still feels like back-to-school season. It makes me want to stock up on office supplies, tweak my wardrobe, and generally get my shit in order. This month is going to be themed with back-to-school types of posts. Nothing too cliche and university specific, but general posts that will be helpful to my college audience as well as those not in classes.
To kick off, I wanted to talk about wardrobe. There are tons of posts circulating about what you should pack for college, especially if you’re living the “small closet in my dorm room” life. And those are great, and helpful. But we generally know what we need–some comfy sweats, basic Ts, “going out clothes,” etc. I wanted to talk about 10 fashion pieces you might not think you’ll need, but definitely won’t be complaining about having (because you’ll need them).
1. Rain Boots/Snow Boots
Of course this will depend on the climate, but having a pair or proper rain/snow boots make treading to class in the elements that much easier. West Virginia gets a little of everything, so these footwear options come in handy. I remember not having a pair of winter boots and trying to walk in inches of snow to class in my “cute boots.” Cute, yes, but didn’t exactly keeps my toes warm (or dry sometimes).
2. Comfy Robe
Ok, I’m just someone who really enjoys spending time in her robe. But I feel like this is something people overlook, especially when packing for college. Whatever it may be — a fluffy, long robe or a silky kimono (I have and love both), having one will come in handy. Not only can you lounge around your dorm/apartment in it, if you use a communal bathroom, you can avoid a nip slip while trying to juggle your towel and shower caddy.
3. Cute + Comfy PJs
Fire alarms happen a lot in dorm halls, and they always happen at 2 am. A pair of cute pajamas means you even look cute when you’re asleep standing up, outside, in the middle of the night, in front of your whole dorm.
4. Shower Shoes
Communal showers. Period.
5. Umbrella
Like rain boots, and umbrella is something you low-key hate having to remember but love when you do. Again, college is usually a lot of walking and waiting outside. The last thing you want is to be waiting for the bus and it starting to rain while you’re without an umbrella. It’s happened to me, more than once. Get a small umbrella to toss in your backpack.
6. At Least 1 Professional Outfit
This is something you’ve probably had screamed at you, but I really do think having a professional outfit in your college closet is essential. From career fairs to class presentations, having a professional or business casual outfit is convenient.
What I always had on hand, personally was a suit with pants, button down, and a blouse. You can mix and match the suit separates to be more or less professional, depending on what your occasion requires. But for you it could be dresses and skirts. It’s preference. When it comes to shoes, flats or heels, whatever you’re more comfortable with. But I’d make them multi-use as to save precious space.
7. Clear Bag
I don’t how many universities have similar rules, but at WVU, clear bags at sporting events are preferred. You can carry a regular bag if it’s within size restraints, but clear bags are a go. Having one handy is great for sporting events.
8. Socks + Underwear
I know you know to pack socks and underwear. But just do me a favor and toss a few more in there. You have your period underwear and your sexy underwear (sorry mom), but toss a few more everyday, run of the mill options in that suitcase. And a couple more pairs of socks. You’ll thank me when you don’t have to do laundry after 6 days because you don’t have any clean socks.
9. Wrinkle Releaser
Even though someone on your floor will have an iron and ironing board, sometimes you just can’t be bothered. A bottle of wrinkle release spray will be a godsend on hectic mornings.
10. Tide to Go Pen
Raise your hand if you’re a spiller! I am. I vividly remember one morning in class my freshman year, I spilled orange juice down the front of my white top. Luckily, I had one of these bleach pens on me. Having one of these puppies in your dorm will save space, as opposed to having full sized bottles, and save you from walking around with that stain on your shirt.
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