College is a big step up from high school and at times it can be hard to know what is appropriate to wear to school. Many students struggle with knowing what to wear and what not to wear in college.
As a recent college graduate, I had the same questions when I first started. Over my four years in college, I saw what was appropriate, as well as what you should never wear in college.
What Not to Wear in College
College students should never wear pyjamas to lectures. Other clothing to avoid wearing in college is anything that looks too ripped or dirty, as well as swimwear and flip flops. No matter how bad the hangover is, sunglasses should never be worn in class.
In this post, I share 10 things that both guys and girls should never wear in college. I also share why it’s important to dress nicely for college, for now and for the future.
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10 Things to Never Wear in Collage for Men and Women
Pyjamas
In college, dressing in pyjamas and slippers will make you look super sloppy so never do this. If you’re looking to dress comfortably, it’s a good idea to wear sweatpants and a sweatshirt or hoodie.
Coming to class in pyjamas will look super unprofessional and it will show your professor that you don’t make the effort to at least dress appropriately for the class.
It’s better to save your pyjamas for your dorm room, as lectures are a place to learn and not sleep!
If you’re not sure what to wear to college check out this helpful article: College Outfits for Men
Dirty Clothes
Wearing clothes that is dirty, stained or smells around the college is not a good idea. Seriously, you don’t want to be the smelly kid that nobody wants to sit next to.
It’s better to learn how to do the laundry and to keep your clothes clean. If you’re a messy eater, like me, wear more black clothing or pack an extra sweatshirt in case you need to cover up your messy t-shirt.
For college, purchasing some basics like a t-shirt variety pack will be great because it will give several options of shirts and different colours.
Recommended: T-shirt Variety Pack (so reasonable and worth it)
Swimsuits
Swimsuits are better to wear to the pool and the beach instead of to your lecture. Whether its bathing suit shorts, a tank top, bikini or pool flip flops, these will all look inappropriate for class.
Tank tops for guys are something to avoid. Even if it’s hot out, avoid all beach and pool clothing.
Instead, wear shorts and tees that are comfortable, but still appropriate.
Offensive Clothing
In college, never wear offensive clothing. Nowadays it can be hard to know what is and isn’t offensive to others. If you think that your shirt could possibly offend someone, it is better to just not wear the shirt.
Shirts with swear words and as well as those that are political are better not to be worn in college. The last thing you want is for other students to get offended, which can turn into a serious altercation.
Super Baggy Clothing
Wearing supper baggy clothing can be comfortable, but it can also make you look sloppy. It’s better to save that clothing for after class or when you’re chilling in your dorm.
It’s better to wear proper fitting clothes, that will look sharp and more presentable. Some oversized clothes is in style, but make sure it’s not overly baggy.
Popped Collar
Popped collars are super out of style, so do yourself a favor and just don’t wear this in college. Unless you’re trying to look like someone out of the Jersey Shore, it’s better to wear your collar properly.
Wearing a nice polo shirt with a proper collar will have you looking good in college.
Wondering if Polo’s are in Style? Read this: Are Polo’s in Style?
Low Rise Jeans (that show underwear)
I’m not a girl, so I’m not going to pretend like I understand this style. However, low rise jeans that actually show your underwear seem to be coming back in style. In my opinion, this just isn’t the best look for college classes.
It’s better to wear normal jeans to school that are less revealing. Leggings, jeans, shorts and jeans are all acceptable alternatives to low rise jeans with your underwear showing.
Sunglasses in Class
Whether you have a hangover or you think it’s cool to wear sunglasses inside, it’s best to not wear them in class. Not only will wearing sunglasses inside draw a lot of attention to you, but it also looks super goofy, especially in college.
It’s better to keep your sunglasses in your backpack and save them for a nice and sunny day.
Are you wondering what to pack in your backpack? Check out this article: Backpack Essentials for College
Party Attire
Clothing that you may wear to parties, like overly dressy or revealing outfits, are better for college parties rather than in class. In college, lectures aren’t the place to dress up in party attire.
For lectures, it’s better to dress more casually or in business casual attire. The way you look in class will reflect on how your professors and other students see you, like it or not.
Related: What to Wear to a College Party for Guys
Different Shades of the Same Color
Since were talking about what not to wear in college, I figured I’d share a common mistake people make, and a quick tip on how to dress a bit better.
If you want to look good, avoid wearing different shades of the same color as it just won’t look right. A monochromatic look is great, but not when you have several different shades of blue from head to toe, for example.
It’s easier to wear colors that go well together and or with neutrals for the top or bottom.
For example:
- Black pants and grey shirt
- Blue pants and white shirt
- Beige pants and black shirt
Why You Should Dress Nicely For College
In college, it’s important to dress nicely, especially for class and lectures. If your professor sees you dressed in nice clothing, their first impression of you will be that you are a respectful student who puts effort into looking presentable for his class.
It’s important to make a good impression on both your teacher and other classmates. If you are wearing clothing that’s messy or worse, that smells, others will not want to sit next to you.
The best part about wearing nice clothing in college, is that it’s going come in handy in the future.
Some nicer clothes will be great for job interviews, internships, events and presentations so it’s always good to have a few nice shirts, pants and even dress shoes.
Related posts to read next:
13 Backpack Essentials for College Students
Outfits for College Guys That You’ll Actually Want to Wear
How to Have Fun in College While Having Good Grades
What’s Better? Laptop or iPad for College?
How to Prepare for Your First Day of College
Final Thoughts on What Not to Wear in College
If you’re going to college, you are probably wondering what you should never wear to school. In this post, we went over 10 things that should never be worn to college and why you should dress nicely for college.
As a new student, it can be confusing to know what to and what not to wear to college so I hope this helped!
What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve seen worn to school? Please let me know in the comments below.