School is back in session. Whether you’ve been hitting the books this fall or not, you can still incorporate a little schoolgirl chic into your look. Classic schoolgirl staples (pleated skirts, button down cardigans, knee-socks, blazers, etc) make excellent additions to any fall wardrobe and add a bit of sophistication with a playful spirit, depending on how you style the look (you definitely do NOT want to look like you’re channeling Britney Spears circa …Baby One More Time).
If you’re dubious about the concept of borrowing from the schoolgirls, just look at Alexander Wang’s Fall 2010 collection which demonstrated that smart staples like pinstriped separates, thigh-highs and backpacks can be sexy, avant-garde and grown-up. And then there’s fashion muse extraordinary Alexa Chung who is renowned for her preppy style that blends school-girl sweetness with and edgy street-chic sensibility.
Yes, school-girl staples can be both sophisticated, sexy and sharp, so why not invest in a few this fall?
Read on for my favorite schoolgirl finds.
Gap Lightweight Wool Blazer, $98. This smart staple will never be outdated.
Victorialand Open Back Shirtdress, $282. Classic, clean and chic with an unexpected sexy twist in the back.
BDG Varsity Cardigan, $48. A fabulous throw-back to a timeless staple.
Topshop Pleat Flippy Skirt, $65. A guaranteed way to stand out from the pack. Pair this number with a vintage tee or sharp button up.
Diane von Furstenberg Pinstripe Cavaro Pants, $295. A modern spin on a timeless staple.
Forever 21 Pleated Uniform Skirt, $19.80. Suspenders make anything cooler.
DKNY Pleated Miniskirt, $295. The black panel ups the ante on this pleated number.
Ralph Lauren Lightweight Wool Blazer, $264. A fashion-forward spin on a classic collegiate blazer.
Alexander Wang Constance Platform Booties, $695. Use these amazing platforms to smarten up any look, from jeans and a tee to a floaty, femme frock
Character Hero Plaid Wool Shorts, $58. An fantastic pair of fall shorts that can be used to create some unexpected looks.
Lucca Couture Striped Dolman Sweatshirt, $48. The slouchy silhouette gives this nautical style a more boho-feel.
Forever 21 Wool Blend Grandpa Cardigan, $24.80. A classic style that you can throw over anything.
American Apparel Cotton Solid Thigh-High Socks, $15. Stock up on various shades of thigh-highs, the most essential schoolgirl staple!
TopShop Knitted Stripe Cardigan, $70. Throw this cardi over just about anything for that added factor of funkiness.
Roxy Karis Rucksack, $78. And you thought backpacks weren’t cool!
American Eagle Argyle Knee Socks, $8.50. Don’t be afraid to show these off, it’s all about the socks this season!
Nicole Kindle Oxfords, $89. The perfect alternative to flats.
– SABRINA ALEXIS
Written by Sabrina Alexis