How to Rethink The Basics: University Student Edition

By: Daniella Porano

As a university student, money is always tight. My decimated bank account is used to cover the basics of classes, food, rent, and my personal favourite, $200 hundred-dollar textbooks that professors never end up using. To my great sadness, this leaves virtually no room in my budget for purchasing new clothes and creating a dream wardrobe. Fortunately, basics that most university students have can be reworked into easy outfits that feel fresh and new.

The first step to having a wardrobe that is functional and versatile is investing in quality basic pieces. Step away from the Forever 21 denim rack and think about pieces that need to last. If you’re like me, buying cheap “fast-fashion” clothing at discount retailers in the mall feels wasteful, especially when they tend to fall apart after the first wash.

On the same note, while I love reading fashion magazines and browsing designer boutiques, the cheapest of pieces are still completely unaffordable to most university students. The compromising middle ground for us underfunded fashionistas is searching for quality pieces to build your outfits around. To do this, look for proper and in-line stitching, nice material, and a great personal fit, and don’t be afraid to spend some time in big box stores like Winners or even secondhand stores like Value Village, where quality (and designer) pieces can turn up for fractions of the original retail prices.

Most importantly, do not ignore your footwear and bag choices. The easiest way to jazz up the most basic of outfits is to subscribe to the power of a statement bag and perfect shoes. Although, I’d argue it’s important to invest in timeless pieces like neutral coloured boots (combat, riding, heeled booties, or other lasting styles) and similarly with bags, there is room to play with trends and vibrant colours and patterns. To make sure this works well and to ensure your style remains affordable, select pieces that mesh well with your basic pieces. Consider your current wardrobe whenever you go shopping for colourful or trendy pieces that accent your outfit and bring your personal style to life.

For example, I live in all shades of blue (particularly navy), black, and varying hues of gray, so when I shop for statement pieces I gravitate towards complimentary maroons, reds, and pinks. Keeping an inventory of the colours and styles of your basics makes shopping easier, more affordable, and keeps clothing from the dreaded ‘do-not wear’ pile at the back of your closet.

1. Dark-Wash Skinny Jeans

Every pair of quality dark-wash skinny jeans I own are quite possibly the best purchases I’ve ever made. The key to this style is simple: find a few pairs that fit you extremely well and build outfits around them. I’ve styled my own black and dark-wash blue jeans with everything from dressy peplum tops and colourful heels to a plain white t-shirt and combat boots with perfect ease. To change it up, try colourful denim alternatives like oxblood, military green, or dark gray.

2. The collared button-up shirt

Collared button-up shirts are one of my favourite pieces to wear. More fun than simple t-shirts, and not as dressy or demanding as silky blouses, they’re the perfect pieces to build an outfit around. Chambray/denim, solid colours, or even plaid, have the effect of looking prim and proper when buttoned up with a statement necklace, or looking cool and easy paired with boyfriend jeans and smoking slippers. Experiment layering under chunky knits or fitted cropped sweaters for fall for a cozy and refreshing outfit. Alternate between pairing with flared skirts and formfitting denim. Tuck them in or leave them loose. Button them up or leave them open with a great tee underneath. The options are limitless and perfect for chilly weather.

3. The perfect fall jacket

As Canadians, we can’t survive without a sturdy fall coat. Invest in a coat that goes with the majority of your wardrobe and that makes you feel instantly put together when you put it on. For me, it’s my navy military-esque trench, but it can be anything depending on your personal style. A perfectly cut leather jacket or a worn distressed denim jacket, a camel coloured trench or a cozy blanket coat, can be all that is required for a perfect fall outfit.