It doesn’t matter what else is happening in fashion—there’s always going to be some version of a prep school trend come September. If you wore a uniform to school, you probably complained bitterly about it, but they can actually be a great source for style inspiration. Just think about the fitted blazers, the classic plaids, and the shiny loafers. While the prep school fashion trend can be great, you don’t want to look like you’re wearing a school uniform when you passed your last math class ages ago. You want to channel prep school style; you don’t want to look like you’re ready for back-to-school.
(Related: The 11 Best Fictional School Uniforms You Would Have Gladly Worn)
Check out these outfit ideas for how to pull off the prep school trend:
1. Chambray Shirt
A blouse and a flared skirt are quintessential prep school pieces. To take inspiration from the look without looking like you’re wearing your old uniform:
- Choose pieces in different fabrics.
- Instead of the itchy polyester, try a chambray shirt and a suede skirt.
- Wear whatever color shoes you like.
There is no dress code here.
Get the look:
- Slim-Fit Cotton Chambray Shirt ($85, Mango)
- Black Leather Batchel ($205, Cambridge Satchel Company)
- Anne Klein Rose-Tone Watch With Taupe Strap ($65, Lord & Taylor)
- Tall Cord Button-Front A-Line Skirt ($58, Topshop)
- Hinge Benito Lace-Up Oxford Shoes ($90, Nordstrom)
2. Plaid Skirt
Instead of the usual plaid mini skirt, choose a midi length for a more sophisticated look that works for the office. Pair it with a turtleneck and loafers to keep the preppy feel.
Get the look:
- MICHAEL Michael Kors Jet Set East-West Saffiano Tote ($248, CUSP)
- Plaid Midi Pencil Skirt ($12, Old Navy)
- Petite Short Sleeve Turtleneck $69, Anne Klein)
- Cara Charm Bangle Bracelet Set ($6.99, Lord & Taylor)
- Dena Smoking Loafers ($25, Payless)
3. Bow Blouse
A bow blouse is either associated with schoolgirls or retro secretary outfits. In most cases, it is often paired with a skirt. To make it look like you’re not wearing a costume, pair your pussy bow blouse with skinny trousers and chunky shoes. Choose a black and white color palette for a modern finish.
Get the look:
- Signature Tote ($118, Anne Taylor)
- Sterling Silver Semi-Precious Stacking Rings Set ($49, Accessorize)
- Tie-Neck Blouse ($60, Mango)
- Socially Pointed Loafer Heels ($81, ASOS)
- Oasis Peg Leg Trousers ($55, John Lewis)
4. Classic Cardigan
We’re going to need some layering pieces soon, and you need different ways to style them, so they don’t become boring. Take inspiration from schoolgirls with a classic fitted cardigan but swap the skirt for shorts. When the temperatures drop, add tights.
Get the look:
- Marc By Marc Jacobs Lost & Found Candy Stud Earrings ($65, Forzieri)
- Merino Wool Cardigan ($60, Gap)
- Danielle Nicole Brooklynne Satchel ($88, Nordstrom)
- Premium Suede Shorts ($135, Dorothy Perkins)
- Black Lace & Suede D’Orsay Flats ($100, Sam Edelman)
- All Things Fabulous Oh My Darling T-Shirt ($70, Revolve Clothing)
5. Navy Blazer
The navy blazer is a uniform classic. Some schools may have fancy printed ones, but the navy one is the most popular. Resist the urge to pair your blazer with coordinating bottoms otherwise, it will look like a uniform. Layer it with your favorite t-shirt and jeans to dress them up.
Get the look:
- Colorblock Push-Lock Satchel ($59, Accessorize)
- Wool Blazer ($248, Brooks Brothers)
- Current/Elliot The Ankle Skinny Mid-Rise Jeans ($89, THE OUTNET)
- Iconic Baked Sculpting Lipstick In Big Apple Red ($21, Laura Geller)
- Sam Edelman Kollins Plaid Loafers ($80, Nordstrom Rack)
- Zoe Karssen Kiss & Tell T-Shirt ($102, Harrods)
6. Jumper Dress
If you’re a fan of overalls, you’ll like jumper dresses. They’re not just for schoolgirls, and they’re not just meant to be worn with white blouses and bows in your hair. You can wear yours with a bow blouse but add boho accessories to make it look more age-appropriate and less twee.
Get the look:
- Guess Grayson Status Carryall Bag ($72, Macy’s)
- Denim Overall Dress ($34, Old Navy)
- Mademoiselle Pussy Bow Blouse ($58, Nasty Gal)
- Faux Suede Floppy Hat ($50, River Island)
- Louise Et Cie Frieda Suede Flats ($129, Lord & Taylor)