It’s a nerve wracking time, you’re about to start University. Moving away from home, meeting new people, studying in massive lecture halls and at times having long days. Let us relieve some of that stress by providing you with a useful, clear guide on fashion essentials, fit for your small wardrobe and equally limited budget.
A Pair of Jeans
A definite must have! A great pair of jeans that will last as many washes as needed without fading, will withhold its stretch, colour and fit for the year long. We advise investing in a blue pair and one black pair to follow you through the year. Here are some options for you to choose from.
From L-R: Topshop Moto Indigo Blue Joni Jeans £36, New Look Black Skinny Jeans £12.99, New Look Pale Blue Ripped Knee Skinny Jeans £24.99
A Pair of Boots
They’re not just handy for the winter and can be worn throughout the year, whether it’s with your plaid shirt and ripped jeans or your smock printed dress. You want a pair that will be effective for the cold weather and stylish for any occasion.
From L-R: Zara Flat Ankle Boots with metal detail. £39.99, River Island Black Chelsea Boots £38.00, ASOS Right About Now Western Pointed Chelsea Ankle Boots £38.00
A Pair of Shoes
A pair of flats; moccasins or brogues are handy to have lying around for them casual days whether it’s for a day full of lectures or after you’ve had a long night. We say choose black; suitable for all outfits and easy to wear or alternately some trustee trainers; Converse or Vans slip ons are perfect!
From L-R: Converse All Star Low White Canvas £44.99, Vans Classic Slip On Shoes Smoked Pearl £51.99, MANGO Pointed Toe Flat Shoes £39.99
A jacket
Whether it’s a leather jacket to throw on over your boho dress or a coloured tank, or your trustee blazer, a jacket that will do you good on them days you can put away your coat.
From L-R: H&M Biker jacket £39.99, New Look Tall Tailored Blazer £24.99, H&M Cargo jacket £29.99
A Jumper
We’re in Leeds, chances are we’ll be sure to have cold weather even in the not-so-cold seasons. That’s why a trendy warm, fluffy jumper is perfect to have in your wardrobe, so you can pull it out no matter the time and it’s perfect to keep you insulated fashionably.
From L-R: MONKI Bonita knitted top £25, Miss Selfridge Blush Cable Fringe Jumper £30.00, MANGO Lace Panels Sweater £34.99
A shirt or blouse
An oversized or printed shirt is perfectly casual and easily wearable for a lecture or a meal out. Whilst we all love a monochromatic wardrobe, you can add cool colours; blues or greys too – suitable to wear in both semesters.
From L-R: Boohoo Alyssa Longline Grandad Collar Boyfriend Shirt £20, Topshop Neat Fit Chambray Shirt £29.00, Miss Guided Lace up Wrap Blouse White £22.00
A Party Dress
You’re planning to go out as much as you can and you want to do it in style. Sparkles, leather or suede. Nowadays, you have a choice of dresses in a variety of materials that can be worn on a night out. Stand out and have fun in these choices.
From L-R: ZARA A-Line Dress £29.99, Miss Guided Faux Suede Zip Front Shift Dress Tan £28.00, Topshop Strappy Lace Bodycon Dress Price £39.00
A Bag
Choose a bag big and strong enough to carry all your University essentials, but light enough easy to carry around on campus. With so many options out there from totes to backpacks, you’re spoilt for choice!
From L-R: ASOS Oasis Zenda Backpack £34.00, ZARA Combined Tote £39.99, ASOS Front Pocket With V Bar Shoulder Bag £25.00
Shopping Tips:
Unidays: Download the app to indulge at your favourite stores (From Topshop to House of Fraser) with discounts like 10% off at ASOS, Benefit cosmetics and Urban Outfitters to 15% off at Adidas.
Student Lock Ins: Watch out for the student lock-in events when Leeds Trinity (and other shopping centres i.e. Kingsgate centre Huddersfield and Meadowhall Sheffield) will have an exclusive shopping night for students! With discounts in all your favourite stores, you’re sure to go away with some steals!
Rukaiyah Dadhiwala