With more than a month spent seeing high school friends, watching Netflix and being generally unproductive, packing for school is far from the mind.
But move-in is just around the corner and it’s never too early to start that packing list with clothes from holiday shopping sprees, old closet finds and necessary staples. Here are seven things you won’t want to forget putting in your suitcase!
1. Faux leather jacket
Leather jacket
A faux leather jacket is a classic piece that never goes out of style, and its possibilities are endless.
I love pairing mine with jeans or dark leggings for an edgier look, or with a floral dress and Vans when it’s a bit warmer outside. It’s extremely versatile and doesn’t get ruined if you get caught in the rain on the way to class.
2. Weather-enduring boots
First semester had its share of rainy days (too many), and there are few feelings more unpleasant than walking into class with soggy socks.
Wellies do a good job of keeping you dry in the rain or snow, and range in price. But at 5’2”, I often find these standard rain boots are too big and clunky for my short frame. I invested in a pair of Doc Martens, and I can honestly say they’ve been one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. Fit for almost any season, I can wear them with almost anything, and they endure the rain and snow. They’re a little pricey, but completely worth it, as they’re comfortable, last forever and make any outfit look polished.
3. Chunky infinity scarves
I’m not much of a scarf person, but after trying one on, I knew it was time to invest. Think sweater for your neck.
These scarves are insanely comfortable and cozy while still sophisticated and chic. I own a few basic colors, and I love pairing them with a simple top and skirt or pair of jeans to add another dimension to a simple, casual outfit. It doubles as the perfect accessory in cold weather, and if it’s really cold, you can drape them over your head to keep you warm as temperatures continue to drop.
4. Bodysuits
Bodysuit
As someone who wears skirts all the time, bodysuits have become a staple in my closet.
At first, I wondered, when would I wear this? But after purchasing one a few years ago, I’ve realized the power of a good bodysuit. Worn with jeans or a simple circle skirt, I no longer have rolls of extra fabric from attempting to tuck in a shirt, and on top of that, it’s really comfortable! I’m all for looking cute, but comfort is a must.
With a bodysuit, you don’t have to sacrifice feeling good for looking good. I get most of my bodysuits from stores like Forever 21; with such low prices, I can buy handful of different prints and styles.
5. The classic “LBD”
Any store or fashion blog will advertise the importance of the little black dress, and I couldn’t agree more.
I have more black in my wardrobe than I care to admit, including an array of black dresses in different lengths, fabrics and styles. My personal winter favorite is a neoprene sleeveless dress that I purchased at Forever 21; I can dress it up with heels and opaque tights, make it edgy with fishnet stockings and Doc Martens or form a casual look with gladiator sandals in the summer. Stores like H&M, Forever 21, Urban Outfitters and American Apparel are fun, affordable options to choose from before moving to a pricier range.
6. Oversized sweaters
Leggings and body-con skirts are always always stylish, but when it gets cold I sometimes have trouble figuring out what to wear them with.
I’ll be honest – I can’t pull off most pairs of leggings unless my shirt falls lower in the back. So when I discovered oversized sweaters, I was in love. Not only do they make it easy for any shape or size to wear sometimes-unforgiving leggings or tube skirts, but they make an outfit look casual but still polished. Most of my sweaters came from my parents’ chest of old clothes, and they’re my favorites. It never hurts to see what vintage items you can get your hands on, but you can always find cute and fun sweaters in any department store.
7. Fuzzy socks
I’m almost always cold, so when I walk across campus it’s no surprise I can’t feel my toes when I get to class.
For bigger boots like Uggs or Docs, it’s easy to fit a thicker sock underneath to make those commutes a little less unbearable. There’s nothing better than putting your feet into these pieces of heaven after a long day, and my favorite part is all of the funny prints and designs you can buy. I’ve seen them almost everywhere, but stores like Old Navy and Brookstone always have a great selection.
Is there an essential you think I am missing? Comment below and share your thoughts.
