When it comes to the first week of classes, there’s a list of things to worry about. Where is my class? Do I need my textbook already? What if I fail? And what do I wear? For some, deciding on an outfit may be at the top of that list. In case you’re one of those people, let me help ease your worries.

On the very first day of a class, dress in clothing you would wear to meet your partner’s mom at her house. Something casual but nice, obviously. By doing this, you aren’t outdoing your professor’s attire too much, but you also aren’t dressed so laid back that you seem careless.

If you know your professor, think about how they typically dress for class. If they dress in business attire, you should consider dressing up your outfit by tucking in your shirt or adding a sweater over it. If they dress in athletic wear, dress however you feel like; show up in that hoodie and basketball shorts.

For freshmen or those who do not know their professors yet, think of it like this: first impressions are not solely based on your appearance. A professor is going to think more highly of a casually-dressed student who shows up early and shakes their hand than a student who shows up late in a business casual outfit.

At the end of each day, we are attending classes to learn and to benefit our future careers, so we should wear what allows us to do so. This being said, I think everyone should wear what makes them feel like the best version of themself. The more comfortable you feel in your outfit, the more happy you will feel and the more productive you will be.