The Frat-Boy Starter Pack That Won’t Break The Bank

After months of waiting for summer to arrive, it’s somehow August already. The bright evenings are still hanging around, the sun’s still putting in the work, but we all know what comes next. Before long, September will be knocking, bringing with it the start of a brand-new semester. And as exciting as a fresh start is come fall, it can also add a sense of dread to an already hectic time. What is your wardrobe going to say about you? Don’t fret, we at Highsnob know that a great wardrobe isn’t built on chasing every trend. In other words, comfort is going to be your best bet this season. Smart comfort, yes, but think the frat-boy uniform, minus the hazing.Forget turning pages, we’ve gone ahead and rounded up everything you’ll need to turn heads all over campus, and all under $100, no less. Thank us later, bro.ZARA Baggy Fit JeansFinding the right pair of jeans is no easy feat, especially if they’re gonna be your daily beaters. Zara’s baggy fit jeans prove that sometimes the easiest pieces are the ones that do the most work. With a relaxed shape and just enough slouch, they’re the kind of jeans that look better the more you wear them, which is handy, because you probably will.Crocs Echo Element TraverseCrocs have been on a run with oddly shaped sneaker-esque shoes. The classic clog still has its place on campus, of course, but the Echo Element Traverse offers much more substance. Because while everyone else is reaching for loafers and chinos, there’s something to be said for a shoe that looks like it could survive both a full day of lectures and whatever questionable plans happen after.Nike Solo Swoosh JoggersNow, some may think a classic jogger is reserved for the confines of your room only, maybe a late-night snack run if the situation calls for it. But when styled correctly, there’s nothing stopping them from becoming part of the daily uniform. Nike’s Solo Swoosh Fleece Pants are here to prove the jogger can do more than just sit on the sofa.ZARA Fabric Shopper A fabric tote doesn’t exactly scream frat-boy, we know, but hear us out, it should. A backpack has a time and place, but a black shopper just hits different. This Zara one in particular is everything a shopper should be. Sturdy and just sleek enough thanks to the leather closure. Nike Waffle RacerAs someone who has recently adopted a Waffle Racer into his rotation, this is Nike at its best. Retro in all the right ways and not just comfortable but supportive due to the elongated back. You're not gonna need a load of sneakers while your away, these will complete any fit day or night. Trust us, these are the pair you’ll be glad you packed.Levi's Pleated Work ChinoDenim is great but a smart chino with an understated sneaker has a certain quiet confidence. Levi’s Pleated Work Chinos are a solid reminder that trousers don’t have to be complicated. The relaxed cut and pleated detail do just enough to make them feel like more than your standard pair of khakis. Timberland BackpackOf course, no back-to-campus uniform is complete without a backpack. The right one can make or break the whole thing, and this beautifully tanned Timberland one gets the balance just right. Practical without feeling overly functional, with enough space to carry all the daily bits without taking over the fit.Uniqlo Soft ShirtEveryone and we mean everyone needs a solid checked shirt hanging in their closet. Even more so if you're approaching a new semester. Uniqlo’s softer than soft checked shirt is basically the unofficial uniform of pretending you have your life together. Throw it on, layer it up and let the checks do the rest. Foolproof.More Campus-Ready GoodnessHighsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase. Want to shop the products our editors actually love? Visit our SHOPPER page and subscribe to the newsletter for recs on all things fashion, footwear, and beauty.