How to have a minimalist wardrobe for college that actually matches?

Hi, I'm starting college this August and for my whole high school, I haven't been very into fashion, I literally just wear the shirts that I like, but I don't really look cute per say in them.

Since I'm going away to college, I really want to update my wardrobe (much needed), but I'm not gonna have a lot of space. I'm also a minimalist, so I don't want to buy a ton of outfits, a ton of shoes, etc.

I'm using some sort of a list:

• 10-12 t-shirts/shirts
• 5-6 pants/jeans/shorts/skirts
• 2-3 sweatpants
• 4-5 long-sleeves/hoodies
• 1 nice outfit for events
• 3-4 pairs of shoes

What is the best way to buy things that will match with each other? I always find myself buying skirts that will only match with one top, shoes that only go with one shirt, cardigans that only work with one outfit, etc. Are there more neutral patterns/colors I should be buying?

Does anybody have advice on how I can style this and make it work?

Edit: My school will be 30+ min away from the nearest shopping center