How to Dress for Success in College

If you've ever been in a college classroom, you're familiar with the scene: sweatpants, low-slung jeans and T-shirts. While comfort is important, even in a classroom your clothing may be giving the wrong impression. Consider the number of people you see during an average school day. While your friends may understand why you are attending psychology wearing your pajamas, what are you telling the professor, who needs to write a recommendation letter? Are you impressing the speaker from the company that you would like to work for or the department head from the grad school you have your eyes on? Wearing a suit to class may be inappropriate, but there is a middle ground that can be professional and collegiate at the same time.

Instructions

1. Plan your day. If it begins with English and ends with soccer practice, plan how you can dress practically for all events. If that isn't possible, plan to take a change of clothing with you or go back to your room to change. If you know there is a special event coming up, such as a job fair or meeting with a professor, it's always safest to be conservative.

2. Assess your current wardrobe. Chances are your budget is tight, so try to work with what you have.

3. Determine what is appropriate and practical. Khakis, good-fitting jeans, polo shirts and non-offensive T-shirts for guys, and not too short skirts, shirts that fit and cover the midriff and cleavage and jeans with no tears will work for women. At the very least, everything should be clean, fit well and be without tears. On the other hand, don't wear clothing that will be uncomfortable or keep you from activities that you enjoy.

4. Supplement your wardrobe with basic pieces. Even if money is tight, save up for classic pieces. Choose more expensive items like coats and jackets in neutral colors and natural fabrics like cotton and wool. You'll be able to wear them with a variety of clothes and they'll last a long time. Add a color with a shirt or an accent.

5. Wear comfortable shoes. You're still a college student and you probably have to cover a lot of ground during the day. Neat, athletic shoes are usually acceptable and loafers look good and are comfortable.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay away from fads. Classics are always the best bet for your money.

• If you have to keep up with the latest fashion, choose an inexpensive accessory.