Packing Lists

[pibetaphi2013]

I was really borderline about bringing sundresses or patterned skirts- I figured I'd be going to parties, dinners and class, but not brunch. I was really glad to have them with me.
Also, lecture halls tend to be freezing, so it's nice to have a few cardigans.
I brought too many shoes, when you're packing them try to think about what you'll wear them with. I did not need 3 pair black satin evening pumps for freshman year, but I wore all of my less formal black heels a lot. I think a pair of black heels, and a pair of mid-height nude heels can get you through (nearly) any event.

Invest in one of those mattress toppers. And also make sure you buy everything you need to keep your papers organized.

If you know the campus well enough, the best thing to do is pay attention to what people wear to class. At some schools nike shorts and a school/greek/generic tee is standard for class, and at some it's pretty common to see girls in 8 am french wearing a sundress. You'll probably end up, at least somewhat, conforming to what's normal class wear at your school, so i'd try to pack mostly for that- but know that finals week will come, and you'll want your athletic shorts, as will the days where you just need to curl your hair and dress up.

I also second the comfy walking shoes. While this doesn't exactly qualify as a walking shoe, I was really glad I invested a little more money in some comfy black ballet flats with a good sole.

[nittanygirl]

Originally Posted by pibetaphi2013

Also, lecture halls tend to be freezing...

Orrrrrr 110% the opposite. I don't think I've ever been less than warm in a lecture hall here.

[ree-Xi]

I agree with lots of jeans. Even if people dress a little nicer for class, most people spend a lot of time in jeans.

More clothes suggestions:

• I also suggest a few dressier outfits for brunches, dinner out, dates, formal meetings for sororities and clubs, etc.
• 2 or 3 comfy pairs of shoes that aren't sneakers. I'd do one brown, one black, and something in a cool color or fabric.
• Agree on the black pumps and nude-color pumps.
• One or two fun pairs of shoes or boots.
• A blazer that you can throw on over jeans, a skirt or a dress.
• Accessories - scarves (also great if you get stuck in the sun, in a chilly room, in the rain), a few belts, and a few pieces of your favorite jewelry. Don't bring anything too expensive. Pearls, a pair of diamond/pearl/jeweled stud earrings, and a few necklaces can take you far.
• Cardigans are great to change up an outfit or to carry in case it gets chilly.
• Something to put your phone in that can attach to your backpack or belt. I have a cute fabric holder that has a slot for an ID, and one of those clips. You can also get one that has a key fob on it.

Other stuff:

• A fan! Dorms aren't always air-conditioned, and circulating the air can really help, even in the winter if the heat is too high. It's also helpful for white noise while sleeping, especially if people on the floor are noisy.
• Noise-canceling headphones for noisy roommates, studying, or watching/listening to stuff on your computer.
• I agree with a waterproof jacket. I can't tell you how many times I got caught in rain/ice/snow walking back and forth to class.
• A small umbrella to fit in your backpack or tote bag is great, too.

Are you moving to a climate different than your own? That gives you a whole bunch of more stuff to think about.