September means two things: Autumn is here, and it’s back to school time.
When at university the terms are long, but the summers are longer. You’ve had at least three sweet months to kick back, go on holiday and enjoy life away from the lecture hall. But the month of September is upon us, which means it’s time to look towards the new academic year. Whether you’re returning to uni or are about to embark on your first year, what you wear is undoubtedly an integral part of university life.
Forget the reading lists and stall the obligatory kitchenware spree, because getting your university wardrobe sorted should be number one priority. University, or college to our Stateside friends, is a great time to experiment with your style, but it’s also important you don’t fritter away your whole student loan on shopping sprees in the first week. To make life easier, PAUSE has put together this definitive guide to help you create a uni-ready capsule wardrobe that will keep your style on point for the entirety of the year ahead. We know student loans don’t stretch very far, so we’ve included budget options as well as pricier investment options that will see you through until graduation.
Top backpack picks:
A stylish yet durable bag is a must-buy item for university and a backpack makes perfect sense because they’re functional, comfortable and on trend. You’ll be using it every day so PAUSE suggests keeping it plain so it will go with most outfits.
RAINS Blue Messenger Bag – Click here to buy.
Y-3 Black Vest Backpack – Click here to buy.
OFF-WHITE Black Velvet Backpack – Click here to buy.
ASOS Black Faux Leather Backpack – Click here to buy.
Keep it simple:
The secret to creating a capsule wardrobe is to steer clear of highly-patterned clothing and instead opt for good quality plain basics. At uni you can’t afford to keep buying brand new outfits, so by investing in some plain pieces you’ll be able to create multiple different outfits from just a few items of clothing.
ASOS Black Wool Mix Overcoat – Click here to buy.
Stussy Black Embroidered Pullover Hoodie – Click here to buy.
ASOS Wide Leg Smart Trousers In Black – Click here to buy.
Club Monaco Two-Tone Slub Cotton-Jersey T-shirt – Click here to buy.
Stone Island Grey Knit Sweater – Click here to buy.
Converse 70s High Top – Click here to buy.
The statement piece:
Just as it’s important to stock up on those essential basics, it’s equally important to invest in a statement item. This piece should really reflect your personality and you’ll probably want to splurge on it a bit, so choose wisely. A difficult category to advise on as this piece must encapsulate everything about your own personal style, but it’s a good chance to have a bit of fun and play around with prints and colour.
Raf Simons Black Denim Patch Shirt – Click here to buy.
Topman Blue Badged Denim Jacket – Click here to buy.
Adidas Originals Maroon Velour Track Suit – Click here to buy.
Gucci Appliquéd Wool Sweater – Click here to buy.
Best coats and jackets:
The start of a new uni year is exciting, but it also means colder months are coming. The price of staying warm in winter can be a costly one for students, with winter wear retailing at higher price points than summer clothing (naturally). But as student houses aren’t often the warmest of places, you might just thank yourself later for investing in a good quality jacket. (Tip: ASOS give students 10% discount so it’s an ideal place for purchasing higher priced items).
ASOS Black Wool Mix Overcoat – Click here to buy.
Sixth June Parka With Faux Fur Hood – Click here to buy.
ASOS Textured Overcoat In Black and White – Click here to buy.
ASOS Wool Mix Overcoat with Drop Shoulder In Dark Rust – Click here to buy.
Sixth June Parka With Faux Fur Hood – Click here to buy.
Schott Shearling Flight Jacket – Click here to buy.
