You want to look and feel your best, but you also want to be comfortable and practical. Ultimately, you want to leave a good impression on your mates during your college years and first impressions are lasting. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips and guidelines for what to wear on the first day of college.
First, it’s important to consider the dress code of your college. Some colleges have specific dress codes that must be followed, while others are more casual. If you’re unsure about the dress code, check the college’s website or ask a current student. You don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb on your first day of school.
You don’t want to show up in something that’s inappropriate or against the rules. Assuming there is no strict dress code, unlike High School, let’s dive into some suggestions for what to wear on your first day of college. These are some of the best outfits you can show up to your new school in.
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What to wear on your first day of college
1) Comfortable shoes
One of the most important things to consider when choosing your outfit for the first day of college is your shoes. You’re going to be doing a lot of walking around campus, so it’s crucial to wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in all day. Sneakers, loafers, and ballet flats are all great options.
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Avoid high heels or any shoes that are too tight or uncomfortable. Most college students do not wear heels to class or around a college campus so you’re good. A pair of white sneakers is one of the most important things to pack for your very first day on campus. Stylish sneakers can be paired with anything from short skirts to low-rise jeans.
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2) Jeans
Jeans are a classic and versatile option that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They’re also incredibly comfortable and practical for a day of classes or your first time in the lab. You can pair them with a simple t-shirt or blouse for a more casual look, or dress them up with a blazer or sweater.
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Dark-wash jeans are a good choice as they look more polished and put-together. During the warm months, jean shorts can be paired with a tank top for a simple casual look. You don’t have plenty of time to be thinking of outfit ideas when you’re studying for finals.
3) T-Shirt
A basic t-shirt is a comfortable and easy option for the first day of college. You can pair it with jeans, shorts, or a skirt, depending on your personal style and the weather. If you want to add a bit of interest to your outfit, choose a t-shirt with a graphic or print.
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Just make sure it’s appropriate for college and doesn’t have any offensive content. A great way to make this look dressier is by adding some statement jewelry. T-shirts are probably the first thing you should pack when preparing to head to campus.
4) Sweater or Cardigan
Even if you’re starting college in the middle of summer, it’s always a good idea to bring a sweater or cardigan with you. Lecture halls and classrooms can be chilly, so having a layer to add on is important. Plus, a sweater or cardigan can add a touch of sophistication and polish to an otherwise casual outfit.
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5) Dress or Skirt
If you prefer a more feminine look, a dress or skirt can be a great option for the first day of college. Just make sure it’s not too short or revealing, as you want to make a good first impression on your professors and classmates. A knee-length or midi dress or skirt is a good choice. Keep the skirt suit for the day you have an important presentation.
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You can pair it with sandals or flats for a more casual look, or dress it up with heels or loafers. If you have a presentation, the best way to style your skirt is with a button-down shirt. During the colder months, add a denim jacket or a leather jacket to keep warm in a stylish way.
6) Backpack or Tote Bag
Finally, don’t forget to consider your bag. You’re going to be carrying around textbooks, notebooks, and a laptop, so you need a bag that’s practical and comfortable to carry. A backpack is a great option as it distributes the weight evenly across your back. The last thing you want to leave college with is a bad back!
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If you prefer a more polished look, a tote bag can also work, as long as it has enough room for all your essentials. Make sure your bag has a large zipper in the main compartment to prevent your books from getting wet on rainy days.
7) Crop top
If you’re looking to create a casual look with your crop, try pairing it with high-waist skinny jeans. High-waisted jeans give the illusion of a smaller waist and also suck in whatever love handles you may have. If you have a curvier body type, I suggest you invest in a pair of jeans with some stretch in them (at least 3% elastane) to ensure the most flattering fit.
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Choose a crop top in a bright color to show your personality. Create a cute outfit by adding flannel shirts to this look. You could even tie one around your waist for a cool look. This should leave a good first impression on your fellow dorm mates.
Overall, the key to choosing your outfit for the first day of college is to strike a balance between comfort, practicality, and style. You want to feel confident and put-together, but you also want to be able to focus on your studies without worrying about your outfit.
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With these tips and suggestions, you should be able to create an outfit that’s perfect for the first day of college. Start off on the right foot by not doing the most on the first day of college classes. Here are a few other things to keep in mind as well on your big day, especially if this is your first year:
i) Weather
The weather is always an important consideration when choosing what to wear, and the first day of college is no exception. Make sure to check the forecast beforehand so you can plan your outfit accordingly.
If it’s going to be hot and sunny, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. If it’s going to be cooler, make sure to bring a light jacket or coat.
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ii) Culture and atmosphere
Every college has its own unique culture and atmosphere, and this can be reflected in the way students dress. Some colleges are more laid-back and casual, while others are more formal and polished. An easy way to polish up an outfit is with a structured blazer.
Take some time to research the culture of your college and consider how you want to fit in. You don’t have to dress exactly like everyone else, but it can be helpful to get a sense of the general style and tone.
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iii) Personal style
Of course, at the end of the day, your personal style should be the most important consideration when choosing your outfit for the first day of college. You want to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin, so choose an outfit that reflects your unique style and personality. This means throwing on a floral dress instead of your typical outfits on some days.
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Don’t be afraid to add a pop of color or a bold accessory if that’s what makes you feel good. If you are attending any events with formal dress codes, remember to respect those. Generally speaking, college fashion is casual and laid-back.
Some other college tips to keep in mind:
Make sure your outfit is clean and wrinkle-free. You want to make a good first impression, and a wrinkled or stained shirt can detract from that.
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· Keep it simple. You don’t want to spend too much time or energy on your outfit on the first day of college. Choose something easy and fuss-free.
· Don’t forget about grooming. Take some time to do your hair and makeup if that’s something that’s important to you. Just remember that your comfort should come first.
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· Bring a water bottle. Staying hydrated is important, especially if you’re going to be walking around campus all day. Bring a refillable water bottle with you to stay hydrated and save money on buying bottled water.
While choosing the perfect outfit for your first day of college is important, it’s also important to remember that it’s just one small part of the bigger picture. Starting college can be a daunting experience, but it can also be an exciting and transformative one.
Here are a few additional tips to help you make the most of your first day of college:
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· Get organized
Make sure you have everything you need for your first day of classes. This might include textbooks, notebooks, pens and pencils, a laptop or tablet, and a backpack or bag to carry everything in. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the layout of the campus beforehand, so you know where you need to go for your classes.
· Meet new people
One of the best things about college is the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. Try to strike up conversations with your classmates, join a student club or organization, or attend a social event on campus. Making connections early on can help you feel more at home and comfortable in your new environment.
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· Stay organized
College can be overwhelming at times, so it’s important to stay organized and keep track of your assignments, deadlines, and schedules. Consider investing in a planner or calendar to help you stay on top of things, and make sure to schedule in some downtime for yourself as well.
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· Take care of yourself
Starting college can be a stressful and exhausting experience, so it’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, don’t hesitate to reach out to your college’s counseling services or other support resources.
· Stay open-minded
Finally, it’s important to stay open-minded and flexible as you navigate the college experience. College is an exciting time and can be full of unexpected twists and turns, and it’s important to be able to adapt to new situations and challenges.
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Embrace new experiences and opportunities, and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. You get to meet international students and potentially make lifelong friends. Your school days will go by so quickly and soon your first class will be something of the distant past.
Starting college can be a thrilling and transformative experience, and choosing the perfect outfit for your first day is just the beginning. By staying organized, making new connections, taking care of yourself, and staying open-minded, you can make the most of your college experience and set yourself up for success. Good luck, and enjoy the journey!
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In conclusion, choosing what to wear on the first day of college can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering factors like comfort, practicality, style, weather, culture, and personal preference, you can create a great outfit that will help you feel confident and ready to take on the challenges of college life.
Do check out my post: 5 Ways to Wear a Crop Top Without Showing Your Stomach is you do not wish to show any belly, even in the summer heat.
My post: 10+ Ways to Wear Black Joggers provides some great ideas on how to style a wardrobe staple – black joggers.
I also have a post: 6 Ways to Wear a Flannel Shirt if you want to perfect the relaxed college-girl look with a flannel shirt.
Until the next post,
XOXO
Theankaraqueen