As we find ourselves well immersed into the month of August, it’s to no shock that September is closer in the horizon. That little glimpse of is enough to have us reminiscing of days on campus; autumn leaves with a pumpkin spice latte in hand (or, to each their own). Below is a list of 10 essential items to help revamp your look with an edge, and still abide by the ‘blah’ dress code.
1) Long-line Blazer: There’s a new fit to the classic tailored blazer that’s flattering for all figure types. The longer length, residing below the waist, provides jacket-type coverage for the transition between the warmer to cooler months. Easily paired with jeans, trousers, or a flowing skirt.
2) Jogging Pant: Ladies, no more leggings. If you fell victim to the leggings with a cropped top phenomenon, the jogging pant is your savior. Going for the athletic sport look is very on-trend this season when done the correct way. The jogging pant is loose around the leg and fitted at your waits and ankle, similar to a harem pant. Their comfort comparison is the pajama pant, which is ideal for sitting long hours in class.
3) Sweater Dress: For those chilly days when you’d like to just wear your blanket to school, essentially, you can. A sweater dress with a pair of black booties effortlessly screams sophisticated casual chic. Now, don’t get caught daydreaming too much.
4) Pastel Knit: Delicate and dainty, pastels are no longer just a colour palette appropriate for summer. Their softness balances out the rich colours of fall, adding a very vintage feel to your ensemble. When paired with a thicker garment, the contrast plays off well, which is why the pastel knit is a season must-have.
5) Printed Jacket: When you’re go-to ‘safe’ outfit for a school day is a blouse with jeans; a printed jacket may just be the pop you need. It’s boldness is best balanced with darker bottoms and a lighter top, adding some fun and creating a crisp look.
6) Structured Skirt: Mini it may be, but the bounce and flow of the fabric, creates the illusion that it falls lower than it may actually. If your sick of office-like pencil skirts and length is a reoccurring issue at your school, opt for a texturized skater skirt. The structured skirt looks really flirty paired with an oversized tee and jean jacket.
7) Decorative Hair Ties: For when you’re on the go, headed to the gym or have a full day of appointments and group meetings. Having a hair tie in your bag is handy for when you want to throw it up fast. Having them embellished with a little décor, is enough to classify them as an accessory, and will dress up any casual outfit!
8) Statement Necklace: Your alarm clock “turned itself off…again”, and you’re going to be late. This is when accessories come in handy; they’re easy to throw on as your running out the door, and add something eccentric to even the whitest of white tees.
9) Metallic Oxford: The oxford shoe is the typical British school girl inspired uniform shoe, but has been making it’s way onto runways season after season. Metallic is another huge trend, which is remaining a constant throughout fall/winter. In combination, they are a perfect match.
10) Leather Backpack: You ditched the Barbie backpack years ago, and since, have missed its practicality. The backpack is a one size fits all, allowing you to store your books, an agenda, and other daily girl necessities. The leather backpack is muted and chic, coinciding with your other wardrobe picks.
Product Picks:
1. ASOS Blazer in Textured Boucle, $59.40.
2. Topshop Tribal Scribble Jersey Tapered Trousers, $45.29.
3. Zara Detailed Knit Dress, $99.90.
4. Topshop Knitted Fluff Crop Jumper, $55.00.
5. Talula Rodeo Drive Jacket, $34.99, Available at Aritzia.
6. Talula Fifth Avenue Skirt, $24.99, Available at Aritzia
7. Berry Spiked Out Ponytail Holder, 10.91, Available at Nordstrom.
8. Anthropologie Turquoise Medusae Bib, $378.00.
9. Uniform Metallic Oxford, $115.05, Available at NastyGal.
10. Zara Leather Rucksak, $129.00.
By: Jenn McNaughton, Toronto.
You should follow me on Twitter @jennmcnaughton.
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