Here is a list of 10 items that you are going to need at University and probably for the rest of your life.
1. A good winter coat. This is an absolute essential. You need it when you walk around campus and for those horrible 9 AM lectures. You'd be amazed how many lecture theatres are freezing cold, even in the middle of the day during the Autumn term.
2. A V-neck jumper. You may want a couple of these to wear any time your room starts to get a little bit chilly or whenever you feel the need for a little bit of layering.
3. Socks and underwear. You really do want to stock up on these. It's amazing how many people bring enough clothes to university for two weeks but forget to pack enough socks. You're going to be on a tight budget so it makes no sense to be doing a wash just for these when you have enough clean clothes left upstairs for the next week.
4. A suit. One good all-purpose suit in grey or navy blue is a great investment, because there is going to be an occasion where you will need it. A suit is great for formals, socials and job interviews. Having one of these stashed away at the back of a wardrobe will help you stand out from the crowd and give you an air of sophistication.
5. A pair of boots. These are great for when it's raining and cold outside or when you have to face long walks to the shops to stock up on baked beans.
6. A satchel. This is an obvious one. A good satchel to will help you carry your books, writing pads, laptop and whatever else you choose to take to lectures. Make sure you get a sturdy one as the carry strap has a tendency to go on them. A good source of affordable, but resilient bags is the army surplus store and if you are lucky you might find an old Eastern Bloc leather carry satchel. Whatever type of bag you go for remember it should be hard wearing and waterproof.
7. The smart shirt and tie. You're going to need these to wear with your suit or you can wear them with your V-neck jumper when you want to stand out a little, but not a lot. The shirt should also be good for wearing on nights out you want to dress up a little. Just be careful that someone doesn't spill beer on it.
8. The good wallet. Preferably one with plenty of room for cards. You will be producing a wallet with frightening regularity over your first few weeks at University; you might as well invest in a good one. You will also be given a whole host of cards to carry, so make space for them to. That said, try to get a slim one as you're going to be carrying this all the time so there's no sense in making it any heavier than it needs to be. Also beware of putting it in the same pocket as your keys, as it will get scratched.
9. Jeans. You are going to want at least two pairs. Jeans are great because you can wear them with just about anything, they are hard wearing, and you can get away with washing them less frequently than other trousers.
10. A Sports jacket. Jackets like this can be dressed up or down depending upon the occasion. It's a nice change from the winter jacket when the weather is good, and you can invoke some good old-fashioned chivalry by offering it to the girl you're escorting home from the pub on a cold night (trust me they will remember).
With these 10 items you should be able to dress for any University situation. In the Autumn term it is key to layer your clothes to keep you warm and with this wardrobe there are plenty of options for practical but stylish outfits.
