School is back and here’s how to ace your wardrobe this term

Did you notice something on your commute this morning? Buses and trains are noticeably busier as little feet shuffle with heavy school-bags, and leather hold-alls carry college supplies. Summer is well-and-truly-over and the season of change is upon us, but what do you do if you’ve already graduated but still feel drawn to plaid patterns, varsity sweaters and old-school stationary? Whether you’re 13 or thirty, August and September provide the perfect opportunity to paint over your summer identity and start afresh.

Back-to-school shopping is no-longer refined to below-the-knee skirts and knee-high socks (though I still have a penchant for them both). Boiler suits, standout two-pieces and exciting separates are part of the new grown-up uniform.

Can you ever wear back-to-school trends as an adult? With a little consideration and curation, yes. Extend hemlines and choose a statement midi skirt and blazer combination (just like the one below), team a new-season corduroy pinafore over a pair of sturdy leather trousers and trainers and try an all-in-one boilersuit over jeans and a T-shirt. Traditionally a spring-time staple, gingham is set to become a go-to print for the coming cold season: this easy-to-wear and versatile print is a great transitional choice for this time of year and perfect to pair with a chunky knit (or the & Other Stories cardi below).  Crochet is cool, bobbles are the business and patchwork is the pattern of choice. Combining the athleisure trend with modern school-girl prep, Polo shirts are the new Peter-pan collars, smart accessorising will be your saviour during long days at the desk (whether work or school) and old-school varsity jackets offer a glimmer of nostalgia.

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These wardrobe heroes will make getting dressed for school (or work) easier than ever—and do double duty on the weekend, too. But most importantly, they’re items that’ll keep you feeling and looking cool. And if you’re looking for a polished alternative to a bulky backpack, scroll below to shop ten styles that will see you through the year.

The midi-skirt

Washed cotton-blend twill jumpsuit by Tibi, €715 at net-a-porter.com

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The polo shirt

Dubois polo top by Ganni, €133.12 at needsupply.com

 The suit

 Floral jacquard suit, €157 at topshop.com

Gingham

Gingham checked dress, €39.95 at zara.com

Cardigan nation

Wool blend Cardigan, €89 at stories.com

Ten alternatives to bulky backpacks

L-r: Leopard print teddy faux fur shoulder bag, €40 at topshop.com, Lotta tote by Wandler, €675 at farfetch.com

L-r: Roll-up tote bag, €75 at uterque.com, marine blue striped vinyl tote by Anya Hindmarch, €795 at brownsfashion.com

L-r: Leather tote, €69.95 at zara.com, Lorna mini leather tote, €485 at danselente.com

L-r: Fendi logo leather shopping bag, €1,200 at brownthomas.com, large leather handbag brown, €900 at acnestudios.com