Are you heading off to college in the fall and wondering if there’s a transition from a high school senior’s wardrobe to a college girl’s closet? During the four years I was in school, I learned a lot about how to look cute in college without going broke or taking too much time (especially on early-class mornings!).
Not going off to school or past the college years? No problem–keep reading for money-saving and time-saving tips specifically tailored to college girls but applicable to just about any busy schedule!
1. Stock Up on Simple Pieces
The single most important tip I learned in four years of college–when it comes to fashion–is never to disdain simple pieces. I used to turn up my nose at tee shirts, thinking they were not conducive to a cute and stylish wardrobe, when in fact they are probably the college girl’s best kept secret! Solid-color tees (sleeveless, cap-sleeved, 3/4 length, and long-sleeve) are such a valuable part of my wardrobe now. Why? Because I can do anything with them!
Versatility is a quality I look for when it comes to outfits. Mixing and matching is my methodology–and solid color shirts and sweaters are queen! They go with jeans, slacks, and skirts and, with a little work, always look put-together.
2. Plan Outfits Ahead of Time
But put-together does require a bit of planning. And during the last four years I’ve discovered that I am no good at planning outfits in the morning when I’m running around, planning my day in my head, gathering books and materials, making my lunch, etc. Still, I’m not a natural at this style game and I find I have to put at least a smidgen of thought into what I want to wear and how that will go with the day’s weather.
My solid-gold plan for outfit-prep? Picking it the night before. Most days I even lay out the next day’s pieces! This two-minute step saves me twenty minutes the next morning.
3. Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize
Those simple, solid-color pieces from step one are a scarf’s best friend. Long, beaded necklaces go great with them, too. Wraps, jackets, and shrugs dress them up. So tie a scarf, arrange some jewelry, or drape to your heart’s content. Pretty accessories can create a college girl’s snazzy or sweet look without dipping into precious funds or requiring too much work.
And never be afraid to go for the unexpected!
4. Got Comfortable Shoes?
Trust me on this. You will be doing a lot of walking at college. Walking from the parking lot to class buildings (miles), walking through class buildings to auditoriums and classrooms (miles and miles), walking across campus to meetings and study group and, of course, the library (more miles!). Hear me: you must have comfortable shoes. On days when you have just one class, you may get away with wearing heels; I’ve done it. But make sure you have at least one faithful pair of footwear for each type of weather. Thank me later.
I hear Chacos are the bomb for sandal-lovers and those with finicky feet. And I love my boots all the way across campus and back.
5. Stay Warm!
This may seem like an odd tip to include (especially coming from this balmy Southern locale), but there’s a funny trend going on in classrooms, I’ve noticed.
They’re freezing.
Perhaps it’s because warm weather led to more students napping in class, but officials at the schools I’ve attended always made sure the air conditioner worked really well in classrooms, the library, and other campus buildings. So even in the summer-esque end-of-Spring-semester time, I carry an extra layer with me, and I’d suggest you do the same. For more tips on how to wear a jacket, wrap, or shrug, click here!
Have these tips been helpful to you?
We’d love to hear about your style adventures–and it doesn’t have to be college-girl related. Comment or use the #adornabelle to tag us on instagram with a picture!
About Rachelle Rea
Rachelle is an author and editor who would much rather shop for books than for clothes (this must be why malls were invented). Her favorite accessories are a smile and a scarf. Her debut novel releases next year.
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