Starting college is a time of excitement and new beginnings, and it’s also the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe. As a college student, you want to have a wardrobe that’s comfortable, versatile, and stylish, but also affordable. You might not be attending black tie balls or boarding a Bahamas cruise, but that’s no reason not to look your best! Plus, you never know when you might want a last-minute change of scenery…

To help you build your perfect wardrobe, here are some wardrobe essentials for college students.

T-shirts and Tank Tops

These classic staples are the foundation of every college student’s wardrobe. Truly, you can’t have too many plain Ts and tanks. Perfect for creating a capsule wardrobe, a good T is comfortable, easy to wear, and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Throw one on as you rush to class, or put it on under a shirt for a night out, your Ts and tanks are the bedrock of your college look.

Jeans and Leggings

The ultimate in easygoing style, leggings and jeans complete your most casual looks while also giving you versatility and the ability to smarten things up easily. Skinny jeans are a classic choice and go well with a variety of tops and shoes, while leggings offer a more laidback, relaxed option and can be worn with tunics or oversized sweaters for style and comfort. It’s best to have a few pairs of both jeans and leggings in different washes and styles.

Sneakers and Flats

As a college student, you will be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Sneakers and flats are the best choices for everyday wear. Sneakers are perfect for the gym or walking around campus, while flats are great for more formal occasions. It’s best to have a few pairs of both, including classic white sneakers and black ballet flats.

A Light, Versatile Jacket

There’s no better way to smarten up a simple outfit than with a light jacket. These wardrobe essentials are one of the most practical items a college student can own, offering a way to change your look quickly, as well as keeping you warm and comfortable in a variety of settings. A denim jacket is a classic choice that never goes out of style, while a leather jacket adds a touch of edge to any outfit.

A Little Black Dress

Of course, college life isn’t all lectures, classes, and lazing around the campus. There are plenty of moments in student life that require a dash of glamor, and for these, you will need your Little Black Dress. This classic piece never goes out of style and can be used in almost every formal, semi-formal, or smart-casual occasion where you need to look great. Accessorize to mix it up with jewelry and shoes and you’ll never worry about what to wear again.

A Professional Outfit

It is, of course, important to be able to dress for more serious, professional occasions as well. From job interviews to professional events, having a smart outfit that makes you seem organized, well-put-together, and responsible will help you make the most of the college experience. A classic blazer and dress pants are a good option for women, while a suit is a good choice for men. It’s best to choose neutral colors like black, navy, or gray, and make sure the outfit fits well and is comfortable to wear.

Building a college wardrobe doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By investing in a few key pieces, you can create a versatile wardrobe that’s comfortable, stylish, and practical.