Returning to school after a summer of sleeping in, beach days, and late-night ice cream runs can be a bit of a drag (to put it lightly). But if there is one good part about going back to school, it’s the back-to-school outfits. The start of a new school year is an opportunity to show off your style and confidence.
If you’ve had a transformative summer, you may be returning to school with a new style altogether. Use those hallways as a runway and show everyone your new aesthetic! Or, if you’re still rocking your signature look, use the start of the school year to double-down on wearing your favorite pieces.
For maximum impact, wear your tried-and-true closet staples but style them with one new trendy piece. This will guarantee that you’re right on the fashion pulse without breaking the bank.
Whichever direction you take, the best outfit is the one that is the most you. If you need a little inspo to help determine whichever outfit that is, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Our editors have sourced their favorite street-style outfits to serve as back-to-school styling inspo. Each of these examples celebrates unique personal style and shows that there is not a singular right way to wear anything!
Style your ‘fits, study hard, and have a great school year!
“Ballet flats are a classic shoe option with a trend-focused moment. Whether you’re wearing a leather, mesh, or velvet pair, they’ll help play up your outfit. I love how this is styled with a simple denim shift dress—an easy transition piece from summer to fall. Plus, you can style it in the winter with a sweater, tights, and boots.” – Olivia Marcus, Fashion Writer
“If you’re a Gossip Girl fan, this outfit is for you. A pleated mini-skirt and button-down feels preppy yet modern. This styling example shows how the outfit combo can feel less formal with a white tank and black belt.” — Olivia Marcus, Fashion Writer
“You won’t be overdressed for class in this type of tuxedo. Denim-on-denim, otherwise known as a Canadian Tuxedo, is a surefire way to look effortlessly cool. This outfit combo works all year round and never goes out of style. Make sure the denim is the same tone for a sleek look and accessories with chunky gold accessories.” – Olivia Marcus, Fashion Writer
“If you’re like me and love the feminine touch of a pump but wouldn’t dare wear high heels to school, then you’ll love kitten heels. At just 1.5 to 2 inches tall, they’re very walkable when going from class to class and add a tad bit of height without making your outfit look overwhelmingly fancy. I love pairing mine with capris and a relaxed top. This look will definitely win you a superlative for ‘most likely to be spotted at fashion week.'” — Kaili JiMei, Social Media Manager
“An oversized blazer will have you looking and thinking smart this school year. You can really wear a blazer with anything so it’s a great investment piece if you don’t already have one. Take note from this styling inspo and and look for one with unique buttons or trim. Pairing a blazer with baggy light wash jeans will make the look less business and more casual.” – Olivia Marcus, Fashion Writer
“If you’re daydreaming of walking through the streets of Paris or New York City instead of sitting in class, you can add a little city living to your school outfit. A simple trench, sweater, and jeans will make you look mature, stylish, and classic. Bonus points if you carry your books in a cool tote bag.” – Olivia Marcus, Fashion Writer
“Fashion people have been tying ribbon bows and knotting scarves around their bags for a while now, but this trend has recently evolved even further. Enter bag charms. Gather all your necklaces, bracelets, and keychains together and hook them right onto your bag handles or zippers. This is such a creative way to distinguish your backpack or tote from the rest of your classmates’ bags. It also gives your peers a taste of your personal style and interests. Who knows, your bag charms might even become a great conversation starter for making new friends (i.e. people ask me about the Tamagotchi on my keys all the time).” — Katie Decker-Jacoby, Associate E-Commerce Editor
“If you’re ever feeling uninspired when you look through your closet, all you need to do is search Copenhagen Fashion on Pinterest and voila, I guarantee inspiration will strike. The Copenhagen fashion girlies do an excellent job of mixing pieces you wouldn’t initially expect to go together to create playful looks. A maxi skirt and sneakers is one of the most popular Copenhagen looks!” – Olivia Marcus, Fashion Writer
“If there’s one combo that always goes together, it’s a hoodie layered over a leather jacket. You’ll feel comfy but your look will have a little edge. This combo can be paired with so many different bottoms (outfit repeating encouraged!). Rock this with a mini skirt, jeans, or slacks.” – Olivia Marcus, Fashion Writer
“Anyone can wear jeans and a tee to school, but if you’re really looking to stand out among the crowd, it’s all in the accessories. I’ve been experimenting with tiny, colorful bow clips lately, and they’ve been getting me compliments left and right. Trust me, statement hair clips are an easy yet stylish way to leave a first impression on all your peers. Pro tip from all the Copenhagen Fashion Week SS25 girlies: Try mixing clips of different colors, shapes, and textures to give off a quirky, artsy vibe.” — Katie Decker-Jacoby, Associate E-Commerce Editor
“Wearing shorts to work or school is a highly debatable fashion choice, but with proper styling, the look can be very appropriate. Dress up your cropped denim with a tweed jacket or a blazer to give the ensemble a fun yet polished finish. On your feet, opt for ballet flats, kitten heels or boots for extra sophistication.” — Robyn Merrett, Style & Beauty Editor
