Take some of the stress out of starting college this year with these best tips for college style. Include these college style essentials as you shop and pack for college. St. Louis fashion experts Annie Heyward, owner of A Chic Critique, and Simeen Cook, an image consultant, provide easy, fashion-forward tips on the best college style essentials. These college style tips include advice on totes, jeans and the best footwear for the college student.

Annie Heyward
A Chic Critique
St. Louis, MO 63105
(615) 600-1800
www.achiccritique.com

Annie Heyward suggests college style essentials that are versatile and may already exist in the student’s wardrobe.

Everyday tote in a neutral color

Annie says, “Every college girl needs a utilitarian, carry-all tote. This bag works well for a busy schedule, accommodating your notebooks and textbooks, as well as your workout gear. Choose a fabric that washes easily, like nylon or canvas, for an easy-care tote. I love Longchamp’s Nylon Le Pliage bags. Stick with neutral colors like navy, camel, black, brown or tan.”

Dark wash, bootleg jeans in premium denim

Include two pairs of dark wash jeans – one pair hemmed to wear with flats for everyday and one pair hemmed to wear with heels for school events and weekend festivities/night-time.

Colorful, printed scarves

Scarves can dress up your basic t-shirts and polish any ensemble. Scarves can be worn and styled multiple ways. Not only are they cute, but scarves are a practical wrap to keep you warm in class.

Ballet flats

The no-heel pumps offer a variety of colors and look great with jeans, skirts and shorts.

Colorful tennis shoes

With all the walking you will be doing, you can walk in style. They also look great at the gym.

Related: College Student Prep: Must-Have Items For Every Dorm Room

Simeen Cook
Image Consultant
St. Louis, MO 63117
(636) 297 0404
www.simeenimage.com

Simeen knows that college life can be hectic, so an easy workable wardrobe is essential. This means stocking up on basic pieces that are “seasonless,” wearable most seasons. Layering the basic t-shirt with a long-sleeve shirt or jacket works for fall and winter. Also, look for fabrics that move, so they are comfortable. Ninety percent of your wardrobe should be “wash and wear.” Cashmere and silk may be beautiful, but are too high maintenance for college life.

Skinny jeans

Colorful skinny jeans (denim and cords) add variety and style, looking good with flats, tennis shoes or heels.

Military-style pieces

Military is this year’s fall and winter fashion trend. Try an army field jacket or long-sleeve shirt in military green or camo. Use these to layer your basic pieces.

Book bag

Go with animal, floral and tribal prints.

Boots

Whether riding-style, fur-trimmed or cropped, boots are a fall must-have. Boots ensure that even in the coldest weather, you look and feel great.

Maxi skirt

A neutral color is most versatile, and Simeen recommends more than one maxi. Maxi skirts are as comfortable and easy to wear as jeans, and can be easily “dressed up.” Maxi skirts can be paired with basic t-shirts or sleeveless tops and layered for a fashionable look.

Related: 2013 Spring Fashion Tips From St. Louis Fashionistas

Pennee Struckman is an accounting professional in St Louis, MO. She currently writes for Examiner.com on topics related to parenting teenagers and living well on a budget in St. Louis. She is also a professional financial management writer with articles and white papers published by a well-known information firm. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.