The School Uniform Look Is All Over Fall 2023 Runways - Our Tips To Style The Trend
Whether you were forced to wear a school uniform back in the day or saw many recreations of Serena van der Woodsen's Constance Billard outfit during the "Gossip Girl" era, the prep school look has been around forever. Plaid skirts and structured blazers are a classic, timeless outfit, and even if you've long graduated from high school, you can rock a more grown-up version of this ensemble. Designers like Celine and David Koma have put their stamp on this trend, but the look is more effortless and easy, with a rock star twist.
The key to the school uniform look is not to be too matchy-matchy. Throw on a plaid jacket over fitted jeans and knee-high boots. Or pair a pleated skirt with a slouchy sweater. You don't want to look like you're reliving your glory days, so ditch the knee-high socks for more sophisticated footwear, such as sheer black tights. And don't forget an oversized blazer, which should be a staple in your closet.
Mix feminine and masculine pieces together
Neckties are a staple for school uniforms, and a thin black one paired with a crisp white button-down shirt adds a touch of masculinity to your outfit. Prevent looking like a catering server with a textured black midi skirt, which got an edgy update this year. Ankle socks and flat Mary Janes make this outfit innocent yet fashion-forward.
Throw on an oversized men's jacket for those crisp fall days
If you feel chilly in your button-down shirt and short skirt, trade in your preppy blazer for an oversized men's suit jacket. Menswear is big this fall, and Pamela Anderson, who is totally in her glow-up phase, wore a three-piece pinstriped suit during Paris Fashion Week. Don't have a male pal you can borrow a jacket from? Rummage through a thrift store — you'll find plenty to choose from.
Pair a crop top with a plaid skirt
Blue plaid skirts scream sophomore in high school, but one in an understated gray wool is super chic. Show off your midriff in a simple black crop top, which you never would have gotten away with in private school. A lovely peach-colored jacket and black knee-high boots complete this fall-friendly 'fit.
Level up your school uniform look with a boucle jacket
There's nothing more classic than a tweed boucle jacket. Coco Chanel was the genius behind this design, which lives on through fashionistas. One in baby pink adds a touch of color to a simple black-and-white outfit. Layer on large white pearls over a black tie, and you'll be ready for a sophisticated lunch at a trendy restaurant — not the school cafeteria.
Wear a slouchy sweater over a pleated skirt
Pair a pleated skirt with a loose, oversized sweater for a casual take on the school uniform trend. A button-down makes this outfit youthful, especially when worn with ankle socks and sneakers. Sling a backpack over your shoulder — we bet you'll get carded at the bar.
Use a thin scarf instead of a necktie
Feeling preppy but don't want to wear a tie? Wrap a thin striped scarf around your neck once and let the ends dangle over your shirt. Cozy up with an oversized chunky sweater worn over a school uniform-inspired gray skirt. This outfit would look great with preppy lug-sole loafers, which are still trending in 2023.
Choose a midi pleated skirt for a more conservative look
Pleated skirts are one of this year's most prominent trends and are so versatile. You can tuck in a fitted shirt or opt for a slouchy sweater. A ruffled white shirt and a pussy-bow tie give this outfit a school uniform vibe, but the midi length of the skirt makes it office-friendly — or the perfect ensemble for a teacher!