While many people see college as an excuse to wander around campus in PJs and Uggs – and trust us, we understand the appeal of rolling in straight out of bed when you have an 8am lecture – college is also a great time to experiment and develop your own personal style. This can be a great era of transition and maturation in your life, while you’re still young and surrounded by friends. So play with your wardrobe accordingly – pick out elements of the freshest, most fun new trends, while also selecting one or two timeless pieces that will add an air of classic sophistication to your look.
First off, invest in some good shoes and boots that are comfortable enough to enable you can run to lectures when you’re late, but which are also stylish. Low-heeled boots in particular are fantastic for looking sleek while also keeping comfy. Elsewhere, the good news is that the ’90s trend of layering is still going strong, so with some clever combinations, you can bring your summer wardrobe into the school year. Layer t-shirts under strappy summer dresses, or long-sleeve mesh-tops under off-the-shoulder Bardot tops to give them some edge – and more class-friendly coverage.
This season, give traditional uniform patterns a rock and roll edge by embracing new silhouettes. Checks are going to be huge this autumn, but this new iteration is nothing like your boring old school skirt. These checks are on cold-shoulder crop tops, and cool shearling-lined jackets, which both look effortlessly cool when teamed with skinny jeans and boots.
Likewise, buttoned-up silhouettes are getting a remix. Demure Peter-Pan collared shirts are getting a gothic romance makeover thanks to some black lace, while shirts feature belts and origami-style folds that show off your waist and shoulders. High-necked dresses in houndstooth fabrics get a modern edge with a high hemline, and are both weather-appropriate and chic when teamed with tights and knee-high boots.
Then splash out on a few statement pieces that will bring you from the lecture hall to the bar. Ornate kimono-style blazers are brilliant for making a simple outfit a showstopper, and will be your saviour when you wake up late and want to throw something on and instantly look fabulous. Staples like black skinny jeans and white tees are being injected with even more rock and roll edge thanks to tulle, lace and sequin embellishments – an easy way to make your everyday wardrobe a little more special.