Reserve your workout clothes for the gym.
College-aged men might embrace the freedom that comes with campus fashion. Those men hailing from high schools that required uniforms, in particular, will enjoy the variety of fashion options available to them in college. However, many college guys rely on an ultra-casual---and often too casual---look of T-shirts, sweatpants and basketball shorts. While you want to maximize comfort, you can do so in a more fashionable way.
Consider the Occasion
The college dorm room---and perhaps even the college classroom---might seem like a casual environment, but that doesn't mean you can spend four years in sweats and T-shirts. Consider the occasion when you're choosing an outfit. If you have a big presentation in your business class, you will appear more professional in a button-down shirt and wrinkle-free khakis than shorts and a T-shirt. Dress for the occasion---don't dress based on what is clean or what you can find in your closet.
Have Some Staples
College guys can get by with a basic wardrobe. Though a suit is something you might not think you need, you'll be attending job fairs---and hopefully interviews---as you approach graduation. Pair a suit with a white or blue button-down shirt and a tie that's not too loud. If you live in a warm climate, stock up on comfortable shorts, like cargo shorts, for casual events like class. Collared golf shirts are a step up from a T-shirt, so snag a few in a variety of colors. Pair them with jeans or flat-front khakis for a dressier look for date night.
Avoid the Trends
Trends come and go. Stick with the staples, and avoid the hottest trend. While that guy in your economics class might be able to rock a bright pink collared shirt, that doesn't mean you need to stock up on every pink shirt you can find in town. You don't need a closet full of trucker hats, either. Your clothing budget is probably limited as a college student, so invest your money wisely.
Shop Smartly
Maybe your mom has done your clothes shopping in the past, and you don't have a clue where to start. To get the most bang for your buck, shop sales. Department stores often include coupons for sales in the local paper, so shop when you've got a discount. If you have the patience, check out the local thrift store for some name-brand finds at low prices. Look for basic patterns---nothing too loud---and clothes that fit you right. Something too baggy or too tight will simply look bad.
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