Best of the best for 4 years! Items we suggest you have heading into college-from a recent college grad herself!
Getting ready for college is one of the most exciting times, and decorating a dorm is one of the best parts of it all. However, there are definitely some items that can last you much longer than just your first year in a dorm room, and they stand the test of time through moving, travel, and many years of transition.
Today, I am suggesting my top items that stuck with me all four years of college. They held up well, were staples in my rooms each year, and are pieces that I could not recommend more! They are even pieces I grab for now in post-grad. Whether you are working on gifts for other girls you know graduating high school, are looking for an item to treat yourself to, or are just planning the packing process- this post is for you.
***Most items in this post are linked through our LTK! It’s easiest if you download the LTK app!
#1- Barefoot Dreams Blanket
It may go without saying that this is a life essential, but for traveling, slumber parties, or each night at home- this has been with me everywhere! I love the personal size blanket, but you can’t go wrong with any of the sizes!
The options are endless! Linked here!
#2- a BIG jewelry box!
One place for all your jewels and gems to go into is crucial. I have had one box take me through all four years, and with mini dividers in it to keep organized. This will not only keep your special pieces in one place, but allow you to collect items over the years, too.
Jewelry Box
#3- Personalized Stationery
It is crucial to have personalized stationary in your desk drawer ready for a thank you note or pick me up for a friend. I have found myself reaching for my personalized note cards time and time again.
There was always a time where I would want to send a note to my sorority advisor, a thank you note to my family members for the birthday gift from far away, or a friend in my dorm that was having a good or bad day. You can never go wrong with a handwritten note, and personalized stationery takes it to the next level in the best way.
Side note: I even had a professor require it for a class one time to personally thank each guest speaker that we had come to school! You will be prepared!
I was gifted these and love them! Stationary
#4- Robe!
Whether you are cozying up on a wintry day in January or getting ready for your first date party, a robe is a must! My friends and I have all different ones, and they are also a great gift.
My favorite one for getting ready: Weezie Robe
My favorite one for a cozy day: Ugg Robe
#5- Memory Box
This is something that each year, I was so grateful to have. Pick up a magnetic closure box at homegoods to fill with all of your special memories from each year. At the end of a year, you can take it back to your hometown to collect at home with all your precious memories!
Think about your ZAP photos, bid day cards, birthday notes from friends, tickets from a first date, or anything special. You won’t regret it!
#6- A hobby away from school work
College is busy, fun, and hectic in all the best ways. However, in the downtime you do have, I hope there is something you can do that you love. Reading, running, styling, golfing, photography- something away from a screen. One thing that I have loved and still do is needlepointing. A natural conversation starter, and a way to be productive and crafty with a purpose.
This beginner's set is my favorite! Needlepoint Set
#7- The catch all tote bag
Something good for professional interactions, throwing in the passenger seat for errands, or for a quick flight to a fun new place. You will need a great tote bag to keep all your bits and bobbles together in one place.
Maybe something neutral is more your style? Or a fun colorway is up your alley? Accessories are always the best opportunity to express your personal style!
#8- Beach towel!!
You never know when you will have an impromptu pool day, head to the beach for spring break, or get invited on a fun vacay with your roommate's family. This beach towel has served me well in four years, and it is the best for packing. A great purchase that will last longer in a day than the sun in the sky, and there are so many fun colorways!
Best Beach Towel
#9- Staple Jewelry
This will be different for everyone, but I want to encourage you to start building a collection of forever jewelry. As previously said, accessories elevate every outfit. Fun pieces are great for weddings and formals, but for everyday, a great stack of items that is unique to you will always be special. Don’t think about doing this all at once, but curating a collection over time will leave a story to tell.
#10- White sneakers for every day!
White sneakers seem obvious, but also so hard to keep clean! I have benefitted so much from crispy white sneakers to wear to more casual professional events, for sorority date parties after I take my heels off, and for running to and from class. The options are endless, and it is the best way to elevate an outfit that may seem so plain to start.
Pick a pair of your favorites that you can keep up and will last your years in college!
Of course, these are all just suggestions of what worked best for me, but it is great to think of things past the year right in front of you. So much time and money is put into preparing for college that it is so great if the items you are looking to get will withstand the test of time!
We hope you enjoyed this post! If you did, let us know! Email get.recruitment.ready@gmail.com with your favorite suggestion!
We always love to connect with our readers and girls! Cheering you on!
Author: Chloe Asycue
