For many incoming freshmen, this semester will be their first opportunity to wear regular clothing to class. Before coming to Washington University, I had worn the same green plaid skirt every day of my school career. But even those who didn’t wear a uniform in high school are probably wondering if there is some unofficial uniform on the Wash. U. campus. The answer is no.

Thankfully, whatever you wear should be fine. There is no unspoken set of fashion commandments. I have found the most common approach to be along the lines of nice-casual: comfortable but polished. Straying toward yoga pants or beat-up T-shirts will probably send professors the wrong message—that you don’t take their class seriously. But there is no need to be at all formal or professional in your attire.

The main thing is to be yourself. College is a bigger environment than high school, meaning you can find like minds no matter your inclination. From graphic tees to Lilly Pulitzer dresses to sporty-chic, you can find it all on this campus. Wear what will make you feel confident and comfortable.

There are, however, two rules to dressing for Wash. U. 1) Always wear comfortable shoes. This campus is huge. And 2) Be prepared for the weather. St. Louis weather changes on a dime, so read the forecast. I once walked from my dorm to Olin Library and, in that amount of time, a violent thunderstorm rolled in, drenched me and passed the campus by. Just saying, you’ve been warned.

Leah Kucera

Look 1

Tweet blouse, Weekday.com

ONLY Women’s Kendell Regular Skinny Jeans, Thehut.com

Olivia Burton Big Dial Watch, The-dressingroom.com

Sparkle Sueded Flat, Catherines-lanebryant.com

Look 2

Graphic t-shirt, Countryroad.com

Mimmi Denim skirt, Monki.com

Converse women’s All Star sneakers, Converse.com

Look 3

Vero Moda Carmelia Blouse, Zalando.com

Medium denim shorts, Mango.com

Statement What Shines is Yours necklace, Modcloth.com

Ancient Greek sandals, Anotherlove.com