How To Look Chic At Your College Orientation: 8 Easy Outfits To Recreate

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First impressions matter, especially in your freshman orientation. Check out our guide on what to wear to college orientation so you’ll look chic from the get go.

College orientation can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You’re finally starting the next chapter of your life, but you don’t want to look like a complete mess while doing it! The opening orientation session in your new school is where you’ll make new friends, so of course you’ll want to look your best for a good first impression.

Blue and white plaid pleated skirt with white tank
Get this skirt on Princess Polly

It can feel quite intimidating to prepare for the first day of your freshman year, so we’re here to help you out with the 8 best outfit formulas. Whether you’re attending an urban or rural school, these outfits will have you looking stylish and confident while still reflecting your own unique style. From dresses and skirts to sweaters and pants, we’ll show you what to wear to look great.

Before we dive into the looks, it’s important to note that while the activities vary on every campus, the orientation program often consists of a campus tour, so naturally there will be a lot of walking. So, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes like a pair of sneakers or ballet flats with your outfit!

What To Wear To College Orientation

1. Sweater + Pants/Skirt

This is a classic go-to outfit for every college student who wants to look put-together but still feel comfortable, especially for college campus visits in the fall. Plus, it’s perfect for both warm and cold weather!

Simply pair a lightweight sweater with some pants or a skirt, plus some comfortable shoes and you’re good to go. If you want to add a pop of color, try pairing your sweater with a printed scarf.

Don’t forget your water bottle and your backpack!

2. Cute Dresses

What To Wear To College Orientation: Casual puff sleeve floral mini dress
Get this dress on ASOS

A dress is always a good option when you want to look chic and approachable. If you live in a hot climate, you can wear the dress as it is, or alternatively throw on a cute denim jacket, cardigan or blazer, if you’re more into a business casual aesthetic.

You can also accessorize the look with knee-high boots to make this outfit weather-appropriate.

3. Casual Rompers or Jumpsuits

If you want to show off your style, try wearing a casual romper or a jumpsuit. This look is perfect for Southern weather and can be dressed up or down depending on the type college that you’re touring.If it’s a sports-focused college, we bet you’ll feel more at home in a casual floral romper, paired with fresh white sneakers.

Alternatively, if you feel like elevating your look a little, add some jewelry and block heels or wedges. This is an easy one-and-done outfit that’s good to wear throughout end of summer and fall, if the weather allows it.

If you want to cover up, you can always layer with a long cardigan of your choice or a denim jacket.

4. Flannel + Leggings

What To Wear To College Orientation: Plaid shirt
Get this shirt on Pink Lily

You can never go wrong with the classic flannel + leggings combo for fall college visits.

This is a great option if you’re looking for something comfortable and easy to wear during your college orientation: simply pair a flannel shirt (or cute top if that’s more your style) with some black leggings!

You can dress this outfit up by adding a statement necklace or complete the look with stylish ankle boots. Remember, there will be a ton of walking, so leggings are a great and comfy alternative to denim jenas.

5. Graphic Tee + Jeans

What To Wear To College Orientation: Nirvana graphic tee
Get this tee on Urban Outfitters

Show off your personality with a graphic tee and dark jeans! This is a cute option if you want to give off a laid back, grounded, and casual vibe during your college visit.

You can dress this outfit up by adding a blazer or cardigan, or dress it down with your favorite sneakers.

6. Open Button Shirt + Shorts

What To Wear To College Orientation: Beige open button shacket
Get this on Nasty Gal

To recreate this look, simply pair an open button shirt with your favorite shorts or pants. If the weather is warm, you can wear a crop top underneath the shirt, or opt for a light sweater if the weather is chilly.

7. Oversized Top + Biker Shorts

What To Wear To College Orientation: Black biker shorts
Get these biker shorts on Urban Outfitters

If you want to remain comfortable but still look chic, try this outfit! While biker short outfits spiked in popularity a few years ago, they continue to be trendy in 2022 thanks to the recent lockdowns and work from home opportunities. Nowadays, fashion is all about combining comfort with style.

To recreate this look, simply pair an oversized top or a nice shirt with a pair of neutral biker shorts and your outfit is pretty much complete! Accessorize with a baguette bag and a pair of chunky sneakers.

8. Top + Skirt

Grey hoodie with pleated mini skirt
Get this mini skirt on Princess Polly

For something dressy and feminine, opt for a skirt. You can go for a ruffled mini skirt with a dressy top, or if you want the recreate a preppy look, opt for a pleated mini skirt with a hoodie or crewneck. Complete your outfit with a pair of combat boots for added edge.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many ways that you can look chic and approachable at college orientation. No matter what your style is, we hope these ideas have inspired you to put together the perfect outfit for one of the most exciting days in your near future.

We hope you enjoyed this style guide on what to wear for college orientation! Remember, no matter what you wear, make sure you choose pieces that make you feel confident, and have fun! Orientation is the first step of your journey in college so make sure to enjoy it.

If you’re still looking for more fashion inspiration, be sure to check out the posts down below.

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