Luna
As summer fades away, a refreshing breeze signals the start of a new school semester. With backpacks packed and schedules in hand, it’s time for the highlight of fall – planning your back-to-school wardrobe. Whether you’re stepping into high school or starting your first year of college, the 10 Looks Ahead will ignite your creativity for every class, study session, and campus event this semester.
If you’re still pondering the perfect first-day outfit, now’s the moment to brainstorm. You want a look that stands out while keeping you comfortable and true to yourself.
Predicting your wardrobe needs for a semester can be daunting, so I’ve curated a collection of stylish, mix-and-match outfits that will carry you through the entire academic year.
Whether you’re a high school student returning to familiar hallways or a college freshman stepping onto campus for the first time, these Back-to-School Outfits are designed to inspire you every step of the way.
1. Button-Downs
This cute and professional look is perfect for those wanting to look put-together but also comfortable all day long.
2. UGG it up
It’s true that you can never go wrong with a hoodie sweatshirt and a pair of Uggs (or Birks). (During midterms and finals, they’re practically the uniform.)
3. Good Basics
Grab yourself a set of basic t-shirts and camisoles for the fall semester. Go for basic neutral colors that you can wear with everything. I’ve linked a few shirts that are soft, comfortable, and long-lasting – perfect for storing in your locker when it gets chilly in the school.
4. Yoga Pants, But Make It Fashion
Just because you’re back in school IRL doesn’t mean you have to leave the stretchy pants behind. Channel “it girl” vibes with these cute yoga sets I linked below. I’ve personally purchased and really enjoyed all three sets – each is incredible quality for the price.
5. Move over Blair Waldorf,
After a full Coastal Grandmother summer by the beach and the tennis courts, you can bring the preppy energy to school by draping a sweater over your shoulders and wearing pleated skirts. Pretty and preppy is where it’s at with this double-layer pleated skirt. It’s fun and twirly, but it’s not the shortest skirt, so it’s OK to wear to most schools.
6. The Go-To Transitional Fit
Fall: the season of chilly mornings and warm afternoons. A classic staple in back-to-school outfits is jean shorts with a white tank – and of course, a baggy sweater for those chilly mornings waiting for the school bus.
7. Bright Basics
Summer vacay may be over, but you can keep the beach vibes going with light-colored sweaters and bright primary colors.
8. Channeling Wednesday
If you’ve been scouring the internet trying to find matches (or dupes) for Wednesday’s clothes, the back-to-school outfit is perfect for channeling our favorite character.
9. Vanilla Girl
Meet: the “vanilla girl.” She’s minimalist, wearing primarily white and cream shades (hello, “sad beige moms”). But this new aesthetic goes beyond clothing — it’s a whole lifestyle that leans into the joys of comfort and luxury.
10. Oh so Barbie
The showdown between the Barbie and Oppenheimer movies was the most-talked-about cultural event of the year – with both raking in billions of dollars during the box office weekend. For those of you with a more bright and preppy approach to clothing, try channeling your inner barbie with this outfit below.
Final Thoughts
As you prepare for the upcoming semester, remember that your style is an expression of who you are. Whether you’re experimenting with new trends or sticking to your tried-and-true favorites, the key is to feel confident and comfortable in whatever you wear.
Use these back-to-school outfit ideas as a starting point to create looks that reflect your unique personality. With the right wardrobe, you’ll be ready to take on the school year in style, one outfit at a time.
