Look Good

20 stylish student picks

From moving-in day to 'out out' outfits

Written by High Life North
Published 27.08.2020

By Bekki Ramsay

Heading to university? Let’s be honest – the first couple of months can be pretty full-on as you ease into the first term, but if you look good, then you’re more likely to feel good throughout this whirlwind period.

And as a former Fashion Communication student at Northumbria, I’d offer one tip for overcoming this: prep your wardrobe before you head back so you’ve got all of your outfits ticked off for every occasion.

Luckily, I’ve got you covered with this edit suitable for everything from the Fresher’s fair, first lecture, house parties, and the inevitable hangover. Keep scrollin’ to see my favourite student fashion picks…

Making a Positive Impression on Moving on Day

On moving-in day, you’ll no doubt be spending a couple of hours in the back of your parent’s car, squished in between boxes. So, with this in mind, you should wear something that’s cool and casual, but chic enough to make a good first impression once you show up and meet your new housemates.

Consider purchasing a matching sweater set, or a casual t-shirt dress you team up with statement earrings. You could even add a pop of crimson on the lips make it look like you’ve tried, without all that much effort required.

Nike Retro Terry Towelling Track Jacket - £65.00

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Nike Retro Terry Towelling Joggers - £55.00

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‘Daydreamer’ T-shirt Dress – ASOS - £22.00

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Blue Tie Dye Joggers – Topshop - £29.99

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Four Statement Sleeve Picks for Your Photo ID Day

Top tip: Within the first week, you’ll be invited down to a certain part of your campus to have your photograph taken for your ID, which you’ll be stuck with for the next 3-4 years.

That’s why it’s important to make an extra effort with whatever top you decide to wear today. Personally, I’d recommend having a major sleeve moment, which will not only make you photo pop, but will get you compliments all over your campus from new friends.

Patterned Mesh Top – H&M - £17.99

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Peter Pan Collared Shirt – H&M - £17.99

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Lilac Ruched Back Shirt – Monki - £30.00

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Gingham Smocked Blouse – H&M - £19.99

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How to Look Effortlessly Good in Lectures:

Life at university isn’t all partying and sleepovers with your new pals and, unfortunately, your first lecture will roll around quicker than your first go at laundry. With this in mind, you’re probably thinking about what to wear to your seminars.

Consider wearing a pair of classic trousers, such as crisp cotton or leather, before toning them down with a white tee and trainers. You could even wear a matching blazer if you need to look dressy for a presentation.

Padded Shoulder Detail T-Shirt – Miss Pap - £10.00

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Faux Leather Trousers – Monki - £35.00

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Pink Single-Breasted Suit Blazer – Topshop - £45.00

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Black Wide Trousers – Weekday - £55.00

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Going Out, Out? Three Outfits That’ll Make You Feel Glam:

One of the reasons I’d recommend prepping your outfits pre-university as this a sure start way of ensuring your fresher outfits are fire. In a new city with new people, when you have no idea where you’re going or who you’re going with, you’ll need a trusty outfit to make you feel more confident about the situation.

Also, did you know that some of your favourite “out-out” pieces can do double duty for your lecture? Just throw on some trainers and a jumper with the trousers for a toned-down outfit that looks good without trying.

Backless Crop Top – Zara - £19.99

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Ribbed Trousers – Zara - £17.99

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Satin Ruched Dress – Oh Polly - £55.00

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Organza Ruched Mini Dress – ASOS - £35.00

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A Cool and Casual Way to Dress for Your Humble Hangover(s):

You’re a student so it’s pretty much guaranteed that you’ll be having a hangover day more than a few times in your first term. For the days where you have to leave the house but don’t want to, throw on a plain dress and pair with some trainers and hoops for a dressed-down but delightful look, or try the trendiest combo: a cardigan, jeans and trainers.

Organic Cotton Dress – Weekday - £25.00

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Pink Nike Air Force 1’s – JD - £90.00

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Wrap Over Waist Band Jean – Topshop - £40.00

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Pink Waffle-Knit Cardigan – H&M - £14.99

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