Dear Incoming College Freshmen,

When your orientation leader and your older friends tell you not to overpack for college, really take their advice, because you will not be wearing everything you brought with you.

Another common temptation you might have is purchasing from sites and stores such as Forever 21, Zaful, and Zara.

While you may be able to find a cute $6 wrap top for a night out with your friends, let's be honest, will you be wearing that again?

Many college students forget how important it is to invest in a few, well-made clothing staples that they can recycle into different outfits that they can wear multiple times. Not only is this better for your wallet and closet space, but you'll also be helping this environment this way!

Here are a few brands (some of which are owned by college students!) that will allow you to get the most wear out of a piece for your money without contributing to fast fashion.

Totality Designs: For the cutest, zero-waste, school-spirit and tailgate clothes

@totalitydesigns

Bea Shop: Uses scrap fabrics to make totally original designs that will definitely turn heads as you're strolling through campus 

@_bea_shop

111 Threads: For unique, handmade tops that will become a staple in your college wardrobe, whether for class or hanging out (socially-distanced, of course) with friends

@111.threads

Hamilton Perkins: Sells great, environmentally-sustainable face masks for you to wear around campus while keeping others around you safe

@hamiltonperkins

Beekeeper Parade: Has great, environmentally-friendly backpacks that don't compromise style, originality, or function!

@beekeeperparade

Veja: If you're looking for a white tennis shoe that will last you a long time, isn't a product of fast fashion, or if you just want to stand out a little in the sea of Nike Air Force 1's that is rampant on almost every college campus

@thatculchiegirl

Ethica Clothing: For very cute and affordable tops made with secondhand fabric for a night in with the girls

@ethica.clothing

Laura Grace Fashion: For the chicest tie-tops and comfortable loungewear, ranging from tie-dye hoodies to jogger shorts (and let's be honest, as a college student, you'll be living in these 99% of the time)

@lauragracefashion