Just because you may have already donned the cap and gown doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the back-to-school shopping and style. From the street-style in New York and Paris to London and Copenhagen we have seen schoolgirl chic at its best. By mixing in a classic letterman jacket or by incorporating traditional tartan in a fresh way, these stylish ladies exemplify the versatility in the trend and will definitely provide you with inspiration.
So how do you shop like a student when you aren’t one anymore? You can still enjoy the fun of shopping for new fall clothes and supplies in this transitional time by updating your shopping list to match your professional lifestyle. From a fresh notebook and new leather backpack to an updated tartan skirt and chic new specs, we have what you need for shopping this season.
1// Consider a varsity jacket with a twist this season. This American Eagle quilted varsity jacket is a modern take on a vintage style at a great price. Achieve a designer look for just $49.99!
2// As one of the top trends in flats for fall, the classic oxford is a must have for the season. The Gramercy Cap-Toe Oxford from Cole Haanwill go with everything from skirts and dresses to trousers and your favorite denim. Check out additional oxford styles in my feature on the trends for fall flats.
3// Embrace the backpack! Backpacks aren’t just for students anymore. This accessory can be a refreshing change to your regular bag for the office and is ideal for weekends running around town. Though there are many styles available, we think this Madewell one is just perfect. It is a timeless, classic bag that you will use for years to come and you can personalize the bag by adding your monogram to the front pocket.
4// Feel like you’re back on campus with the perfect leather satchel. This classic bag silhouette will never go out of style. The satchel featured above in a rich berry shade is from The Leather Satchel Co. and is available on ASOS.com. It makes for a great workbag that is both functional and stylish.
5// Incorporate the traditional schoolgirl tartan into your wardrobe with this season’s must have skirt length—the midi-skirt. The tartan midi-skirt is a sophisticated and polished piece that will take you right through fall. Pair the BOOHOO.com skirt featured above with a classic button down or create an edgier look by adding a black leather jacket.
6// Miss buying school supplies? Take the time you once spent preparing for a successful first semester and invest it in keeping yourself organized for work. One way to start is by purchasing a business card holder for all the contacts you will meet as you take on the working world. We love this one from Kate Spade engraved with the message “let’s do lunch.”
7// Channel Cher Horowitz with a pair of knee socks! This pair from Aerie are only $6.99 and will keep your legs warm with your fall skirts and dresses in the chilly fall weather.
8// Who didn’t love stocking up on colorful notebooks and binders for school? These Archie Grand notebooks can fill that void. They come in bright, fun colors with amusing sayings printed on the cover, including “Photographers I Met and Liked” and “Travelers I Met and Liked.” These notebooks are perfect to keep in your workbag or at your desk for all your important notes and ideas.
9// Gone are the days of trapper keepers, as your laptop now contains everything you need for the day. This envelope sleeve with a magnetic closure from AHAlife doubles as a laptop holder and an oversized clutch, taking you from a meeting at the office to a dinner with friends.
10// Looking for new specs this season? If that is a yes, you must checkout Warby Parker’s new styles for fall. Our favorite is the Holcombin Oak Barrel, which incorporates a subtle cat-eye for a feminine, sophisticated look.
11// A new pair of sneakers was a back-to-school favorite that can stay on your shopping list. Invest in a chic trainer this fall that you can sport with ready-to-wear pieces. These Nike Free TR III trainers featured above are great for a workout, but are also equally as stylish with a skinny trouser or a fitted midi-skirt.
12// Let your inner bookworm shine with a graphic sweatshirt or t-shirt from Out Of Print. The Great Gatsby sweatshirt featured above is perfect for fall and was worn recently by one of our favorite Hogwarts and Brown students, Emma Watson. Wear the sweatshirt over a collared shirt and pair with a skirt to create a look that is both fun and polished. For each product Out Of Print sells, one book is donated to a community in need through their partner Books For Africa.
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