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7 Back-To-School Trends For Fall

Gabi Duncan |
September 3, 2014 | 1:51 p.m. PDT

Style Editor

Summer vacation has sadly come to an end, and school is back in session, which means no more lazy days at the beach or nightly parties until dawn. While this sudden change can be a shock to anyone’s system, the back-to-school grind doesn’t have to be all negative. 

The start of a new school year is the perfect time for reinvention, particularly with your wardrobe. Fall fashion can be just as much—if not, more—fun than your summer attire because there’s so much more opportunity to play with patterns and layers. Check out these seven hot back-to-school style essentials that will keep you looking cute while hitting the books!

Oversized Sweater

A chunky oversized sweater is a great choice to stay cozy and relaxed during a long day of school. The loose fit creates a laid-back vibe in the classroom—you’ll look effortlessly stylish without looking like you tried too hard. Bonus: You’ll stay comfortable in those chilly, air-conditioned buildings. The Just Female Pipa Sweater from Nasty Gal is a neutral, everyday staple that can work alone or as a layering piece. Check out even more options here.

Just Female Pipa Sweater (Nasty Gal)
Just Female Pipa Sweater (Nasty Gal)

Faux Leather Skirt

A faux leather skirt is an easy way to add a touch of edge to your outfit. This super-versatile piece can be paired with a simple tank, a printed floral top or a graphic t-shirt for a fun ensemble. The Faux Leather A-Line Skirt from Forever 21 can be worn with sandals or booties, and you can take it straight from the classroom to a nice dinner afterward. See more sassy leather skirts here.

Faux Leather A-Line Skirt (Forever 21)
Faux Leather A-Line Skirt (Forever 21)

Knit Beanie

Knit beanies have been a fall staple for years...and this year is no different. This simple accessory will transform any tired or dull outfit instantly. Forgot to set your alarm clock? No worries. Just throw on one like the Knit Beanie from Necessary Clothing to hide a bad hair day, and you’re stylishly out the door.

Knit Beanie (Necessary Clothing)
Knit Beanie (Necessary Clothing)

Printed Leggings

Everyone knows that leggings rule the fall season. It’s usually the first choice for every busy student constantly on the go. But, basic black and brown leggings can get a little bit boring after a while. So, why not spice it up a little with prints and colors this time around? Charlotte Russe has some bright and colorful options like the Cotton Geo-Tribal Printed Leggings. See more here.

Cotton Geo-Tribal Printed Leggings (Charlotte Russe)
Cotton Geo-Tribal Printed Leggings (Charlotte Russe)

Plaid Button-Down

The plaid print will be absolutely huge this season. Just like the oversized sweater, the plaid button-down is a relaxed and effortless choice for school. You can wear it alone, as a dress or as a jacket to complete your ensemble. Pair the Dad’s Plaid Buttondown from Necessary Clothing with high-waisted cutoffs, leggings or booties to make a chic fashion statement on campus. Here are some more plaid alternatives.

Dad's Plaid Buttondown (Necessary Clothing)
Dad's Plaid Buttondown (Necessary Clothing)

Moto Jacket

Similar to the faux leather skirt, a moto jacket will toughen up even the most feminine of outfits. It’s also extremely versatile. It can work with flirty, floral dresses or high-waisted jeans and crop tops. The black Dawn Moto Jacket from Necessary Clothing is a great choice for the fall with its edgy detailing and close fit. Check out more chic moto jackets here.

Dawn Moto Jacket (Necessary Clothing)
Dawn Moto Jacket (Necessary Clothing)

Western-Inspired Booties

Every girl needs a trusty pair of booties in her closet for fall, and this season western-inspired pieces are super-hot. If you’re not into full-on cowboy boots, you can still get in on the trend with something similar like the Steve Madden Ryatt. These beauties come in a rich, cognac color and have a chunky heel that won’t murder your feet throughout the day. Check out more choices here.

Steve Madden Ryatt (Steve Madden)
Steve Madden Ryatt (Steve Madden)

Reach Style Editor Gabi Duncan here. Follow her on Twitter.



 

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