Craving Collegiate Clothes

 As we reach the end of August, school starts up again. Inspired by collegiate prepsters, I’ve decided to do a post on preppy skirts – plaid, pleated, and wool. You don’t have to look like you attend an Ivy League university while wearing these skirts. Preppy staples pair nicely with feminine pieces as well as more boy-meets-girl items. Here are some great skirts out there right now:

1. SEE by Chloe Tweed Pleated Mini Skirt 215.

2. JCrew Wool Bell Skirt 79.50.

3. DKNY Pleated Mini-Skirt 295.

Any of these skirts on its own, and paired with the wrong things, could look like a high schoolers' uniform - think collared shirts and thick navy cardigans that hit awkwardly above the hip. That's why I would wear this with that:

1. JCrew Merino Boyfriend Sweatshirt 69.50. This pine color will look wonderful with the gray tweed, and the boyfriend fit makes the look modern instead of stuffy.

2. Topshop Praline High-Heel Loafers 160. I love these caramel high heeled loafers, their color will make the leg look long and lean and not weigh down the look (if you chose a black shoe).

1. Eddie Bauer Marled Cardigan 79. A long and chunky grandpa cardigan will bring this sweater to a cozy but still flattering look.

2. Banana Republic Silk Chevron Tank 69.50. I love pairing a pretty feminine blouse under a thick knit such as the above sweater, it's a fun contrast and perfect for fall.

3. SM Luxe Zappa Bootie 89.95. These boots are so cool. I love how the zippers perfectly match the color of the skirt. They make the outfit more edgy and steer it away from frumpy.

1. Delia's Devin Brass Button Peacoat 89.50. A classic navy peacoat is a fall must. It's straight lines are so flattering on top of jeans, or in this case, a pleated skirt with a little volume.

2. Delia's Bethany Solid Thermal 9.99. A thick thermal makes this nice skirt appear more casual, and I love the idea of having the navy peacoat open over the gray thermal.

3. Bloch Basic Ballet Flat 130. Since this is classified as a "mini-skirt" I think it is appropriate to stick with flats. And to pick up on the black in the color blocking of the skirt, a black flat is perfectly lovely.






Among all these outfits there is a theme of mixing neutrals. Dark green, gray and caramel, ivory, gray and brown, and navy, gray, brown and black. A lot of people might tell you to steer away from brown and black, or navy and black, whatever. I say go for it. I think it looks very chic when a woman can successfully mix neutrals (emphasis on successfully). And fall is the perfect time to explore collegiate basics as well as a palette of neutrals.