Valerie Tiu
It’s that time of year again. While it often sets off moans and groans among students, “back to school” also means that the time has come to pack away the shorts and spruce up your fall wardrobe.
Whether you are going back to elementary, high school or college, it is important to base your wardrobe around the essential items that will carry you through both the fall season and the remainder of the school year. While some autumn styles return year after year, a slight change in shape, texture and detailing can keep the look modern. Just remember to keep it simple and stay away from items that are overly trendy. In fashion, certain styles may look fresh for the moment, but so passé the next.
The following pieces are a few of my favourite back-to-school separates for both men and women. They can be easily incorporated into your current wardrobe and mixed and matched with your latest trendy finds. Basics are a definite mainstay in my closet. I can just throw on a white t-shirt, a pair of jeans, boots (and maybe a scarf for a little pizzazz) for those mornings when I have to rush to class.
Top Picks for Back to Class
Polo tees are a timeless choice. They look great on their own or layered with a comfy sweater. Who does polos better than Lacoste?
Cashmere sweaters are the perfect throw-on piece for those chilly fall days. Mount Cashmere has a variety of styles and colours to suit your mood.
Collared white shirts look great with everything. Switch things up and pair them with denim, dress pants or (if you’re a woman) this season’s draped skirt. Banana Republic’s takes on the white shirt are perfect.
A well-fitting, quality pair of denim from Aritzia or Boys’ Co will take you everywhere from the classroom to after-school cocktails.
Say sayonara to yoga pants and hello to comfy trousers. This pant will keep you looking polished without being overdressed. Just be sure to pair the look down with a casual shoe and a great top. Harry Rosen and Hugo Boss carry investment-worthy versions of the trouser pant.
A blazer or sports jacket is the perfect add on. Why not try it layered on top of a polo, jeans and a simple shoe? Wear Else and The Bay carry labels that make great blazers. If the fit is not quite right, be sure to visit Make It Fit Alterations.
A great wool coat is sure to serve you well for when the cold weather hits the campus. Whether your style is short, long, fitted or voluminous, a well-chosen coat will suit almost every outfit you can imagine. The Gap at Oakridge always comes out with a variety of styles to fit every body type.
It is definitely worthwhile to invest in quality footwear. A casual shoe, like a low cut sneaker or this season’s loafer, can be mixed with denim, trousers, and, if you’re a trendy fashionista, tights and a skirt. Boots are a must-have item and worth the splurge; a universal style will take you through the years. Unless you are under 10, please say goodbye to the Uggs. Browns has every “it” shoe of the season. My favourite are a pair of black Ferragamo booties. To die for.
Be the top of the class with extras like jewelry and accessories. These items can be used to update your look and add a touch of personality to your ensemble. For women, channel Blair Waldorf and wear a feathered headband and – fall’s hottest trend – the oversized necklace from Blue Ruby. Boys can accessorize their look with a fedora, sport watch or scarf from J2 Homme or Quiksilver.
If you must lug around those heavy textbooks, please do so in style! Large totes, carry-alls and laptop bags are sold at Coach and Valise.
