Wardrobe basics that will last your uni journey and beyond.
A capsule wardrobe is the key to seamless mornings. Forget the chaos of trying to piece an outfit together; a wardrobe full of basics will always keep you ‘fitted. Perfect for those crack-of-dawn 9am lectures.
Having a collection of wardrobe basics will make your life a lot easier (and stylish!). Tops that go with any bottoms, a jacket that will last you through the seasons, bags to carry your life in — all of which you can dress up or down, mix and match, and style for years to come.
But students, you’ve got a student budget to keep in mind.
Save the tears — just use our M&S student discount to get 15% off M&S own brands. It’s not just any student discount, it’s an M&S student discount.
To help build your wardrobe of basics, we’ve got some of the best everyday essentials from M&S, where you can use your M&S student discount for a fully-decked out wardrobe for less.
Time to spring-clean that clothes pile of yours!
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Wardrobe checklist
Every good wardrobe starts with the basics. Here’s what you should buy to ensure maximum outfit capabilities and minimal getting-ready-stress.
Women | Men |
T-shirts — long & short-sleeved | T-shirts, shirts, polos |
Everyday bag | Jumper |
Jumper/cardigan | Jeans |
Jeans | Trousers |
Trousers | Shoes — smart & casual |
Shoes — smart pair & casual pair | Joggers |
LBD — Little Black Dress | No-frill underwear |
Joggers/loungewear | Jacket |
Coat | Coat |
Denim jacket | Belt |
No-frills underwear | Blazer |
Filling your wardrobe with the above should enable you to create an outfit for almost any occasion at a moment's notice — more time spent on your studying!
Women’s basics
Stay stylish and stress-free with these wardrobe basics added to your collection.
A classic-fit T-shirt is essential for anyone's wardrobe. 100% cotton? That will last you longer than your student house cleaning schedule.
Black and white will never go out-of-date, but opt for a colour you would normally wear, if monochrome isn't your thing.
Dress up, dress down, it will always work.
A long-sleeved top acts as a great base for many outfits, and is great for layering when the weather turns chilly.
Stripes have never gone out of style; a striped tee is a staple, but plain will always stand the test of time, too.
Also 100% cotton — quality that doesn't cost the Earth.
Chuck a denim jacket over it, pair with some over-sized sunnies = your uniform sorted.
Everyone needs a simple bag that they can take from day to night.
A slouchy shoulder bag that is big enough to carry your laptop to lectures, your snacks from the shops, and hold a pair of flats for a night-out is your best friend.
It's a classic shape that never dates, but will be your companion on dates.
Crew-necks live long in the fashion world, and a crew-neck jumper is the perfect wardrobe basic to have as a student.
Wear on its own, over a plain white tee, smart trousers for formal occasions or paired with blue jeans for simple and understated vibes.
Cold uni halls, early morning walks to catch the bus, air-con too high — a jumper fixes it all.
For warmer days, a pair of linen trousers never go amiss. They can be styled for casual outings with trainers and a simple T-shirt, or dressed up with accessories and a pair of heels for fancier occasions.
The elastic-waist adds extra comfort (and dessert room), but with a drawstring fastening you're able to custom them to your desired fit.
A pair of neutral trainers stays classy and goes with anything — linen trousers, jeans, dresses — they'll be on your feet forever.
Style and comfort.
M&S bra fitting service
Can't talk about wardrobe basics and not mention a proper-fitting bra.
A good bra offers support and comfort, and wearing the wrong one can cause some discomfort and long-term issues (like back pain and chafing).
M&S has a bra fitting service that can help make sure you're wearing the correct size and shape for you. Whether it's your first bra, post-surgery fitting, or even maternity or sports bra fitting, M&S can help you.
You can book an appointment online or go into a store near you and ask if they have any availability.
After your fitting, you can choose from M&S's extensive range of bras to find what you need.
Men’s basics
Look cool without trying too hard and save the effort for your studies. These wardrobe basics are essential for 24/7 style.
A T-shirt is a no brainer. It's simple, it's cool, and if it fits well it can be smart.
Wear on its own, under an open shirt, jeans, trousers, even joggers, you'll always have a look.
Use your M&S student discount to get 15% off and get several in a variety of colours to maximise your choices.
You need a smart shirt in your wardrobe. A crisp white shirt will always be a great go-to, but any colour is great and will add a bit of personality.
This one from M&S is non-iron, so ideal for small uni rooms and busy days.
Wear for formal occasions like grad balls or interviews, but you can also dress it down slightly with jeans and a more relaxed fit (few buttons open, no tie).
Living in the UK, you're going to need a decent coat.
This M&S overcoat is smart and structured, making you look good and feel good, especially against frosty mornings.
Casual enough for your walks to and from lectures, but formal enough for a dinner out. This will last you years.
Belts are practical.
Trousers too loose? Belt them up. But they're also a stylish accessory that can add a little zhuzh to your outfit.
Make your shirt and jeans smarter by adding a leather belt, simple but effective.
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