Back to School Style

Going back to school was always something that was exciting to me, maybe not as much for the impending classes, but definitely the wardrobe update that I had worked odd summer jobs to save up for. Receiving the fall catalogues in the mail was also a highly anticipated event in our house as online shopping wasn’t available as yet, so coming from a small town the options were fairly limited to Sears or the Bay, unless we took a trip across the border in which JC Penny was also a possibility. Yes availability of online shopping has definitely opened up the options that students have returning to school.

Even though a lot has changed since I was in school (I recently shocked a much younger coworker by explaining my university registration took place on the phone as the internet was in it’s fledging era), I still think a few of the same principles apply when trying to maximize your back to school wardrobe. Each piece you purchase has to be versatile. If you can’t make that item work with 5 different outfits, then find something that will because it might be next semester until you can go shopping again.

Comfort is a big thing as you might be walking or even biking around campus, but comfort doesn’t have to take place of style. This fall mixing sporty pieces into your wardrobe are trendy and walking shoes have come a long ways since the days of the ever functional yet hideous running shoes. Also everything must be affordable when you’re on a budget. Sure that designer jacket is amazing, but can you afford rent and groceries first semester if you buy it? The beauty of having online shopping is that there are so many affordable alternatives to the expensive labels while still achieving the same “look”.

Lastly and this might seem to conflict with my previous point but hear me out, pieces that you most likely will wear or use everyday such as boots or a bag, look for quality (which could mean more expensive) that will last past one year of use. Too many times I went for the cheaper purse or shoes, because it was such a good deal, only to have the handles break or the soles to fall off. The item may be moderately spendy but worth it as it’s built to last.

One of the items that I love for back to school is a sporty sweater. Classic and cute at the same time, this cashmere varsity sweater from Joe Fresh meets both the affordable and quality rules. Pair it will worn denim and biker booties to add some edge to the preppiness and don’t forget a chic ball cap when running to early morning classes.

Classic riding boots are fashionable year after year and add a statement to any fall outfit. These luxe fox hunter boots from Poppy Barley are custom measured for your foot with a quality that will last for years to come. Pair with an all black ensemble and moto jacket for a cozy but chic fall look.

A shoppers bag with a fun graphic like this printed horses French Connection purse, are the perfect multi-tasking bag to carry a laptop and books throughout the year. Mix it up with a knit dress and metallic runners for a fresh collegiate vibe.

Lastly, just because you are in school doesn’t mean you are banished to jeans and sweatpants. A pleated leather skirt gives a casual yet lady like look especially when mixed with a graphic tee and a plaid kitten heel. Or pair it with an oversized sweater and sneakers during the week or wear with a silk blouse for those adult events that pop up every once in a while.