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30 Cute Fashion Items For College Students Looking To Up Their ‘Fits This Year
From looks for class to hitting the town — these pieces are *sure* to be a staple in your wardrobe.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. A comfy quarter zip hoodie you’ll wear all the time because of how cute and cozy it is! The next time you have a late-night study session, group project meeting, or Sunday reset from your weekend antics, you’ll want to snuggle up in this. Bonus: It’s a cheaper alternative to Lululemon’s $$$ scuba pullover.
Promising review: “My grey quarter zip has become an absolute favorite in my wardrobe! Its understated style and cozy comfort make it my go-to piece for any casual occasion. The shade of grey is versatile and pairs well with just about anything. The quarter zip design adds a touch of practicality and fashion, allowing me to adjust for comfort and style. The fabric is soft and warm, perfect for chilly days, and it washes like a dream, maintaining its quality over time. Whether I’m lounging at home or heading out for a relaxed outing, this grey quarter zip effortlessly elevates my comfort and style game.” —Liv_InTheCity
Get it from Amazon for $27.99 (available in sizes XS—XL and 24 colors).
2. A lacey tube top to show that you mean business this year with your ‘fits — even if you’re in a dark frat basement. It’s made with stretchy, lightweight fabric that’s comfortable for all-day wear. Plus, this works as a perfect layering item for the chilly weather ahead!
3. OR a lacey bustier top to pair with a fracket (frat jacket) and some jeans when you head out for the night. It’s similar to the Urban Outfitters version that’s gone mega-viral, *but* this one is cheaper and comes in SO many more colors. And it’s super comfy because of its soft nylon material — love!
Promising reviews: “Better than Urban Outfitters. I got this because it resembles the UO version, but this one has more stretch and can actually fit if you have boobs. Quality is nice, would buy in more colors as well” —Amazon Customer
“Fits like a glove! I tried this on and my first thought is that I need more of these in different colors! It has an underwire that [my breasts] sit up just right and it fits really well through the bodice. I love that it’s adjustable…If you have more boob than a 34B, you might want to go up a size…Buy this, you will not regret it!” —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 17 colors and patterns).
4. A tank top with a cute little rose in the middle and lace trim so your simple tank and jeans look feels more special. It comes in four different styles and is the perfect basic for class, lounging, studying, or sweet treat o’clock in the dining hall!
Rat Boy is a woman-owned small business in Ventura, California, that produces high-quality, ethically sourced cotton apparel.
Get it from Nordstrom for $48 (available in sizes XS–3XL and four colors).
5. A Forever 21 long sleeve with a mini bow because coquette fashion ain’t leaving anytime soon! The herbal green knitted top is perfect for fall and winter, so even if you have to layer this under heavy jackets when it gets cold, your in-class look will still slay!
Forever 21
Get it from Forever 21 for $13.99 (originally $19.99; available in sizes XL—4XL).
6. A Grand Prix graphic tee so you can imagine you’re getting ready to go cheer on your boyfriend, Charles Leclerc, in Monaco instead of getting ready for your 8 a.m. lecture. This super cute tropical, luxe vibe T-shirt can even double as the oasis you dream of while you type away notes into your Google doc.
Urban Outfitters
Get it from Urban Outfitters for $39 (available in men’s sizes S—XXL).
7. A pair of on-trend boxer shorts perfect for stepping up your outfits. These come in so many colors, so the next time you chill on your twin XL, need a last-minute outfit for class on a warm day, or a casual outfit for the quad, you’re set to have a stylish, low-effort look! For how cheap they are, they’re pretty hard to beat!
Promising review: “I usually don’t go out and order influenced items, but one girl who is a sustainable and amazing influencer got these and swore by them. The quality is great, fit literally perfectly and the materials are spot on! So happy with my purchase! They are beautiful and the price is unbeatable!” —Janie Bergeron
Get it from Amazon for 16.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 24 colors).
8. An affordable fitted bodysuit that’s just like Skims — so people might think you got that money, honey! One reviewer said, “The fit is impeccable,” while others note how soft, versatile, and comfortable it is. It’s also a good piece to have for layering!
Promising review: “These are such a beautiful staple to elevate any wardrobe and super soft material. They are very comfortable, seem well made and not a struggle to get on or off. I have a few Wolford bodysuits and these are equally as nice but at a much more reasonable price point. Plus there are many great colors to choose from! I’m definitely going to snag a few more!! I hope they can stay well-stocked:) I think I’ll be wearing these often through the cooler months.” —BeachOrBust
Get it from Amazon for $28.99 (available in sizes XS–3XL and 15 colors).
9. A pair of colorful Adidas sneakers because a new semester calls for fresh kicks. These are cheaper than the platform Gazelles but still give similar vibes IMO. You’ll stand out *just* a little but still show that you know what’s in!
Promising review: “I looked high and low for the perfect solid white leather tennis shoe. Purchased my first pair a year ago and wear them non-stop. Great with jeans, capris, dresses, skirts… you name it, they work! I typically wear a 9.5–10 and the 10s fit perfect with mid-weight, no show socks. I ordered a second pair in 2023 as my backup because I feared they would change or discontinue this shoe and I never want to be without them! Super comfortable! Easy to clean and re-condition with leather conditioner. Not sure why people complain about the tongue being to tall…but it’s 100% not…buy them, you won’t be disappointed!” —Dreaming of Hawaii
Get it from Amazon for $79.95 (available in shoe sizes 5–11 and 22 colors).
10. A pair of classic Levis jean shorts that come in every color imaginable because these are a staple for *every* occasion like game days, library study sessions, or just grabbing a coffee from Starbucks before class. 300+ people say these are “comfortable” and slapped a 5-star review on it, too!
Promising review: “Obsessed with these! Often have a hard time finding shorts that aren’t too short or too long and these were the perfect length. Also as someone who is considered plus size there aren’t a ton of denim shorts that are “trendy,” and I’m happy to say these are! I ordered a size up just because I like my shorts to be a little looser — especially on the thighs. They are a perfect fit. These shorts are also on the Levi website for almost three times the price so, way to go Amazon! Total win!” —Lauren
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 14—26 and six colors; also available in straight sizing).
11. A pair of suede clogs that are easy to slide on when you’re going to the bathroom down the hall, going to your early morning class, or just getting some grub from the dining hall. The cork soles conform to your foot, so you stay comfy *and* supported!
Promising review: “I love that I can dress these up or down!! They’re pretty comfy — I like wearing them with and without socks (depending on the temp outside lol). The suede material is pretty easy to clean – I typically use a Clorox wipe to get off dirt/stains I get and that works pretty well. I’ve had mine close to a year and they’re in great shape still!! TRUE to size.” —Chandler DesRochers
Get it from Amazon for $36.99 (available in sizes 5.5—14 and seven colors).
12. A pair of faux-leather leggings for serving looks during game days or celebrating your b-day in style! These are especially good for the people at colder schools because bad weather shouldn’t stop you from enjoying Thirsty Thursday. Reviewers say these keep them warm, so you’ll want these on standby because winter is coming.
Promising reviews: “As a self-proclaimed legging snob, I am always hesitant to buy leggings from somewhere that isn’t Fabletics… I was in a last-minute pinch and decided to grab these as an inexpensive option for my birthday celebration [pictured above]. I am shocked!! I LOVED the way they fit my body. They hugged all the right places, and were comfortable. We were mostly outdoors, and yes, I was wearing a long-sleeved body suit and a flannel, but these leggings kept me warm without making me feel like I was overheating. I’d recommend them to anyone! The ONLY drawback was that I put them from packaging straight on my body and there was a small odor. I recommend letting them air out… but it wasn’t terrible. The fit was perfect.” —Allison Paolone
“Wow these are amazing. They look a little more latex than leather. They are sooo comfy but look elevated to wear out. Feel like great quality. We will see after wash.” —Heather Geller
Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (available in sizes S—3XL and 24 colors).
13. A comfortable Carhartt beanie that’ll give ~mysterious~ but fashionable humanities major as you type away in the back of a Starbucks. This warming hat will keep your ears from freezing off when the weather gets chilly — which is soon!
Promising review: “Carhartt beanies have 2 types of people that wear them. The first is a person who probably got their undergraduate degree in art of some sorts, or enjoys coffee shops and kombucha. They normally pair the beanie with a solid colored tee, skinny black jeans and their Chelsea boots. The hat serves as a small symbol that tells another person they enjoy poetry, that their favorite band is not mainstream, they order their coffee saying venti and grande and it discreetly hides their new air pods. The second type of person is someone who is into making a living doing some manual labor. Doesn’t mind to get some dirt on their new beanies. Whether that be farming, welding, power line, or construction. The beanie doesn’t draw too much attention and it serves its purpose, a warm hat for those cold days working outside. I wore mine the first time today. I’m a college student and my day went like this. In the morning I wore black leggings, a graphic tee, adidas tennis shoes with my beanie. After lunch I changed into boots and wranglers while still keeping my beanie on for my equine lab class. It’s versatile for any style.” —Brooke Yelvington
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in 38 colors).
14. A classic biker short that comes in basically every length, color, and size you could need or want. Since the weather can switch up on us (like Brad from SAE), you’ll want a pair of comfy, quality biker shorts for your walks during a hotter-than-usual fall day.
Promising review: “Purchased the 8” length for me and the 5” length for my college-age daughter. She is in summer training for soccer. I am a beginning runner. We found these shorts to be both comfortable and well-designed. Great pockets for phone, keys, etc.” —Tracy Tutt
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in sizes S—3XL, three lengths, and 30 colors).
15. Or, a pair of ribbed biker shorts to switch up from your normal spandex ones. This comes in a ~latte~ color so your venti brown sugar shaken espresso (with oat milk of course) can pair perfectly with your morning classes. You’ll be comfortable, on-trend, and serving — how perf!
Get it from Princess Polly for $40 (available in sizes 0—20).
16. A light fall shacket for the days that are chilly but not *so* cold you need to whip out your winter clothes. This plaid, layering piece (with pockets!) comes in so many color options so you can have the perf autumn look.
Promising review: “This flannel is very soft and extremely comfy. It was super oversized on me. I could have easily sized down and had an oversized look still, hoping it shrinks a little in the wash. It’s warm and thick without being super thick — some said it would work as a jacket, but if you live in someplace that actually has cold falls/winters, this is not a jacket at all, lol. Still, I would highly recommend it. It’s high quality and cute, I will be wearing this a lot and possibly ordering more colors.” —Hailey
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes XS—XXL and 26 colors).
17. A pair of overalls to throw on when the leaves turn orangey-red, and you want to soak up all the fall vibes in-between classes. If you just want a comfy, loose-fitting outfit that takes no effort but looks like you tried, then this is for you!
Promising review: “Love the fit of these overalls. The design feels a little more elevated than the look of regular bib overalls. The fabric is interesting, kind of thin, but with a bit of a texture as far as the feel of it. Is not so thin that you can see through the fabric.” —Annie P
Get it from Amazon for $27.99 (available in sizes S—3XL and 15 colors).
18. A designer-esque faux leather belt because you should save your nicer belts for (free) dinner with the ‘rents on parents’ weekend instead of a Friday night listening to Chad the wannabe DJ. This still gives designer belt vibes for cheap and will go with any ‘fit — casual or dressy.
Promising review: “I was really desperate for a belt when I first got to college and this one was the style that a lot of people had but without spending hundreds of dollars on a Gucci belt. I’ve had this belt for over a year and it has held up great. It really makes any outfit look classier! Love this belt!” —Hope
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes S—XL and 10 colors).
19. A pair of light-washed baggy jeans for class, going out, or just to wear something other than pajama bottoms around campus. You’ll probably live in these because they’re trendy *and* comfortable.
20. A pair of cargo pants you can wear just about anywhere on campus for any occasion. Library? Yes. Dining Hall? Say less. Tailgate? Why not! These come in so many colors, so your fall looks can stray away from *just* denim and plaid.
Promising review: “This is my second pair. I probably will order more in diff colors. They are so comfortable. They have a little bit of stretch to them and they hug you just right, but give a little where needed. These have become my favorite pair of casual pants to wear.” —Joyce Kirkpatrick
Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes 4–18 and in 15 colors).
21. A mesh-sleeve blouse if you have a presentation that calls for a nicer look than your normal sweatsuit. Don’t feel like you’re sacrificing style for comfort with this (bc you’re not). The lightweight material and long sleeves will give preppy with a side of chic as you rock your slideshow!
22. A sleeveless tie-dye tank dress for Y2K night at the frat, a Halloween costume as Kendall Jenner, or when you just want to flare things up for a GNO. The colorful print and bodycon style is comfortable, so you can still dance like no one is watching!
Amazon
BTW (!), reviewers say you should order a size down.
Promising review: “This is exactly what I wanted. I’ve been rocking ’90s and 2000s looks lately, and this dress definitely helps achieve that. Bright colors, too. It’s super cute.” —Amazon customer
Promising review: “After reading the other reviews, I sized down to a large, and it fits perfectly! This dress is very comfortable and stretchy but still hugs my curves. I also love the color.” —Lora Koleva
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and six prints).
23. A blazer for the ~business casual~ attire that one professor requires during presentations. It’ll bring your slacks, blouse, and ballet flats to the next level *and* make people sit up straight during your public speaking class.
Promising review: “My freshman in college daughter needed a professional looking outfit for a public speaking class. This one fit the bill and she can style it a few different ways. She can dress it up with black pants and heels as well as go for a more casual look with a pair of jeans and white tee underneath. Very pleased.” —Julie Campbell
Get it from Amazon for $66.58+ (available in sizes S—3XL and 24 colors).
24. A denim jacket that’s perfect if you wanna go to a pumpkin patch, embrace the orange trees around campus, or just need a light layer for the crisp (and chilly) weather in the mornings. It’s so versatile that it’s perfect for any occasion!
Promising review: “I am in love. I need one of every color and so far I have put a few more colors in my Amazon list to keep for gift ideas. This is heavy enough to wear as a jacket if you want and the faded look is wonderful. It is still bright and colorful but looks vintage at the same time. I love the fringe at the bottom to give it that little extra pizzazz. I have gotten so many complements on it. Serious it is so comfortable, I wear it over another shirt.” —Brittany & Bryan Scheuvront
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes XS—3XL and 22 colors).
25. An oversized sweater so you can throw on something that’s totally comfortable *and* chic with just a smidge of styling. It’s perf for your science labs, late-night walks from the library, or mornings you want to wrap yourself up in something cozy! This + hot coffee + cold weather = perfection.
Promising review: “I love this cardigan so much! It looks good with almost anything and it’s so cozy. I wear it just about every day while I work and go to class. I can’t wait for fall to come around so I can wear it outside too. Sizing was also just right and the quality is amazing :).” —Alex Greene
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 19 colors).
26. An adorable teddy coat to wear when the fall air smells crisp and feels a bit too chilly for *just* a long sleeve. The fashionable jacket will give you some comfy warmth around campus and even that one classroom that’s unexplainably FREEZING.
Promising review: “I recently purchased the jacket for an outdoor evening event during cool weather, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice! Not only did it keep me warm enough throughout the entire event, but the blue color was absolutely perfect. I received several compliments on it, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for both functionality and fashion in chilly weather!” —Tina J-G
Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes S—XXL and eight colors).
27. A hooded sherpa jacket that’s so fuzzy, comfy, and *cute*. This is the perfect thing to throw on when you get back from class and just want to nap in a hoodie that doubles as a blanket. Fair warning: you’ll probably want to wear this to every school-related activity until you graduate.
28. A stunning pajama set to up your PJ game for dorm sleepovers in your ~megabed~ (IYKYK) without sacrificing comfort. It’s budget friendly but looks $$$ thanks to the flared drawstring pants and flowy top.
Get it from Boohoo for $47.40 (originally $79; available in sizes L–4X).
29. A pleated mini skort that comes in plaid, checkered, and other cute designs. The stretchy, textured fabric will feel super comfy — so if you wear this during back-to-back classes, you won’t be wishing you wore your fave sweatpants instead!
Promising review: “I love this skirt! It’s so cute and comfy and goes with so many outfits. The waistband is stretchy and the built-in shorts are even in the same pattern as the skirt itself. I have this skirt in 5 different patterns because it’s just the perfect style for me.” —Stef
Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in sizes XS—4XL and 21 patterns and colors).
30. An ultra-cozy linen sweater with a knitwear look, loose turtleneck, and baggy feel. It’s basically a dressy, aesthetic version of your comfort sweatshirt. When you show up for an early exam, your classmates will question where you found the time to look so chic!?
The Bliss Nature / Etsy
The Bliss Nature is a Lithuanian small biz on Etsy creating a variety of linen clothing and accessories, from loungewear and sweaters to aprons and dresses.
Promising review: “Oh my god, this exceeds all my (very high) expectations! It’s PERFECT! Absolutely gorgeous as well as lightweight and soooo comfortable. I’m ecstatic.” —Sibylle Leon
Get it from The Bliss Nature on Etsy for $129 (available in sizes XS–XXXL and six colors).
People’s reactions when you strut through with your new outfits:
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Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
