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campus style
August 17, 2015

Here’s Everything You Need to Go Back to College

By Emilie Moy

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Summer might not be ending quite yet, but playtime is over for college students who are heading back to campus. Whether you’re an anxious freshman moving away from home for the first time or a senior enjoying your last year before facing reality, it’s always a scramble to make sure you’re not forgetting essentials like towels or shower slippers. We’ve compiled a handy checklist of everything you need to make dorm life more comfortable without resorting to those crappy milk crates. From chic sweats (because honestly, that’s what you’ll really wear) to nice sheets to your first interview outfit, click ahead and get your life in order.

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A Grown-Up Book Bag On an average day, you're carrying a laptop, textbooks, and, should you be really ambitious, lunch and gym clothes. If you wa... A Grown-Up Book Bag On an average day, you're carrying a laptop, textbooks, and, should you be really ambitious, lunch and gym clothes. If you want a bag that can fit everything without having to rely on your ratty old backpack, look to these styles that are both refined and practical. Madewell and Asos have great options if you prefer a neutral shade that goes with everything, or if you like a little color, go for Herschel's maroon option or COS's metallic one. 
Nice-Looking Sweats If you're like every other college student, you've probably thought about going to class in your pajamas more than once. Inst... Nice-Looking Sweats If you're like every other college student, you've probably thought about going to class in your pajamas more than once. Instead, try these comfortable sweat options that are still presentable for class. Adidas by Stella McCartney offers athletic trousers that can be worn with your favorite hoodies, while cool joggers go well with a solid crewneck sweatshirt. 
Chic, Comfortable Shoes Trekking to class in uncomfortable shoes can feel like an uphill climb (and on some campuses it literally is). Don't both... Chic, Comfortable Shoes Trekking to class in uncomfortable shoes can feel like an uphill climb (and on some campuses it literally is). Don't bother with high heels when sneakers, flats, and ankle boots will cover you for every weather situation. Wear Vans slip-ons or high-top Converse for every day, and mix in Madewell's metallic flats or these penny loafers from Marais for casual days. And if you want to dress it up a bit, go for & Other Stories' low-cut leather ankle boots that can be easily worn with jeans or tights. 
A Great Jacket You never know whom you'll see running between buildings, so invest in a good jacket. Alternate between Gap's classic trench and C... A Great Jacket You never know whom you'll see running between buildings, so invest in a good jacket. Alternate between Gap's classic trench and Current/Elliott's denim jacket in the fall, and then switch to Mango's leather biker jacket or Topshop's wool coat in the winter. 
A Dress for Those Frantic Mornings Maybe it was a bad idea to hit snooze for the third time? But you did and now you need to run out the door in ... A Dress for Those Frantic Mornings Maybe it was a bad idea to hit snooze for the third time? But you did and now you need to run out the door in under five minutes, which is where these dresses come in. A shirt dress is the easiest thing to throw on — take this collared version from Madewell or Mango's belted version. And when it gets a little colder outside, & Other Stories' double layered cotton dress or Aritzia's sweater dress will do the trick. 
A Good Suit for Your First Interview When you finally get that competitive interview, don't go with a wrinkled shirt and ill-fitting attire. Inve... A Good Suit for Your First Interview When you finally get that competitive interview, don't go with a wrinkled shirt and ill-fitting attire. Invest in a tailored suit and then add an affordable white button-up and low heels for a versatile and professional outfit.
A Sleek Tote Who doesn't love a roomy bag that fits all of your things? For a chic alternative to a backpack that also comes in handy for your in... A Sleek Tote Who doesn't love a roomy bag that fits all of your things? For a chic alternative to a backpack that also comes in handy for your interviews go for a sleek tote. Shopbop's black version is classic while Baggu has a luxe suede option.
Organizers for Everything When you're living in a tiny dorm room, you want to maximize as much of your space as possible, especially if you're sh... Organizers for Everything When you're living in a tiny dorm room, you want to maximize as much of your space as possible, especially if you're sharing it with a roommate. This compact bookshelf can be folded up and reused throughout your college years, while washed wooden boxes are an upgrade from those cheap plastic milk crates. And if you prefer to store things under your bed, zippered cases will keep the dust off your clothes.
Sensible Gear for the Communal Shower Sharing a shower with many individuals is a rite of passage. A sleek caddy and nice shower shoes go a long ... Sensible Gear for the Communal Shower Sharing a shower with many individuals is a rite of passage. A sleek caddy and nice shower shoes go a long way to making your bathing experience pleasant while a bathrobe is especially essential for navigating hallways.
Nice Bedding The standard twin extra-long dorm bed isn't exactly the most comfortable way to sleep but make the best of it. Get soft sheets, a fl... Nice Bedding The standard twin extra-long dorm bed isn't exactly the most comfortable way to sleep but make the best of it. Get soft sheets, a fluffy comforter, and supportive pillows for a better night's rest.
Real Kitchen Supplies As tempting as it may be to use paper plates and cups, it's wasteful. Get an inexpensive set of cutlery and plates for your... Real Kitchen Supplies As tempting as it may be to use paper plates and cups, it's wasteful. Get an inexpensive set of cutlery and plates for your first apartment. Supplement with good Tupperware and a nice water bottle on days when you feel like bringing lunch to campus.
Grown-Up School Supplies You're going to spend a lot of time in the library so drown out distractions with a chic set of headphones. And while th... Grown-Up School Supplies You're going to spend a lot of time in the library so drown out distractions with a chic set of headphones. And while the bulk of your notes will be on your laptop, at the very least write down reminders in a planner — studies show it helps you learn better.
Little Things to Make a Dorm Room Less Sad While dorms have certainly gotten fancier over the years, they're still a blank, impersonal space. Tak... Little Things to Make a Dorm Room Less Sad While dorms have certainly gotten fancier over the years, they're still a blank, impersonal space. Take advantage of your newfound decorating freedom and add personal accents like this patterned rug from Ikea or a throw pillow from One Kings Lane. And this cool chair from Urban Outfitters will make guests feel welcome.
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  • back to school
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  • backpacks
  • sweatpants
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