University outfit ideas: what to wear to uni and where to shop our favourite looks

Get your style sorted for freshers' week.

university outfits ideas

by Jade Moscrop |
Updated on

University is a time of freedom - you're in charge of all your own meals, washing and, most importantly, your wardrobe. On the search for university outfit ideas that look good, won't break the bank and will make styling easy? We've got you.

When heading to uni, you'll no doubt be a bit skint, but that's why it's important to invest in a wardrobe that works for every season. Think layers, staple pieces and mixing and matching. And shoes. GOOD shoes. Not ones that will fall apart when you're halfway between your first and third lecture of the day.

Ticking all of these boxes will make it easier to get dressed in the morning (read: on a hangover), get to your lectures in comfort (SO much walking), and it'll also give you more money to spend on the important things, like books (aka Pot Noodles and cocktails).

If you've mastered our university checklist and are now looking for ideas on what to wear to your first weeks at uni and beyond, keep reading for some university outfits that are sure to inspire you.

In a rush? Here are our favourite places to shop for university outfits:

ASOS

Uniqlo

H&M

New Look

Mango

Bershka

Boohoo

Matalan

River Island

In The Style

SHOP: University outfit ideas to inspire you

Black trousers, white T-shirt and Converse

You really can't go wrong with this combo - it's so easy to throw on and you'll be comfortable all day. Plus, it's great for so many seasons. Pair with sandals in summer and a trenchcoat in autumn. You can also switch out the white tee for any of your favourite graphic shirts or cropped jumpers come winter.

ASOS DESIGN Wide Leg Jersey Suit Trouser in Black
Price: $17.60 (was £22)

www.asos.com

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Platform Hi Trainers in Black
Price: $68 (was £80)

www.asos.com

Straight-leg jeans, a cosy knit and combat boots

I love the Topshop Editor jeans so much, I've got them in three colours. Affordable and built-to-last, you'll be living in these. Pair with a cosy jumper and combat boots, or your favourite white trainers.

Topshop Editor Straight Leg Jeans in Blue Black
Price: $37 (was £49.99)

www.asos.com

Midaxi skirt, sweatshirt and white trainers

Pair a chilled sweatshirt with a midaxi skirt for an elevated take on comfort. Investing in a pair of white trainers is a must, and while we love the New Balance 530s, they aren't in everyone's budget. They will last, though. There are plenty of good dupes out there if you can't quite stretch to the real thing. Add some white ankle socks and you're golden.

New Balance 530 Trainers in White and Burgundy
Price: $80.75 (was £95)

www.asos.com

Leggings, oversized shirts and Vans

Listen - you'll never talk me out of a good pair of leggings, and these ones from Amazon are my GOAT. Pair with an oversized t-shirt, checked shirt or shacket (even better if you can scout one out in your local vintage shop) and Vans for a laid-back, effortless look.

H+M Shacket
Price: $23 (was £34.99)

www2.hm.com

Pinafore dress and loafers

Give academia-chic a try with a pinafore dress, long-sleeved shirt and chunky loafers. For when you feel like making an effort.

New Look Burgundy Crepe Pinafore Mini Dress

New Look Burgundy Crepe Pinafore Mini Dress
Price: $24.99

Pleated skirt, sweatshirt and white trainers

Take inspiration from tenniscore with this cute pleated skirt and sweatshirt combo, for an off-duty athlete vibe. Don't forget your ankle socks.

Puma Cilia Chunky Trainers in White and Green
Price: $42.50 (was £50)

www.asos.com

Cami dress, t-shirt and loafers

If you're heading for drinks straight from your last lecture of the day, you can master day-to-night dressing with a cami dress. Pack your boots in your bag for a quick change, or go casual with loafers and socks.

New Look Black Floral Lace Trim Split Hem Midi Slip Dress

New Look Black Floral Lace Trim Split Hem Midi Slip Dress
Price: $29.99

Miss Selfridge Blondie Graphic Tee
Price: $20.79 (was £25.99)

www.asos.com

ASOS DESIGN Maestro Chunky Loafer
Price: $27.20 (was £34)

www.asos.com

Joggers, t-shirt, puffer gilet and trainers

If you're barely brushing your hair before you make it out of the door, you can always rely on a pair of joggers to see you through until happy hour. Pair with a puffer gilet for ultimate comfort.

Boohoo Cargo Pocket Straight Leg Jogger
Price: $16.20 (was £18)

www.boohoo.com

Bershka Long Sleeve Round Neck T-shirt
Price: $11.99
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