Argyle? Present. Backpack? Yep. Oxfords? Here! Back to
school means roll call for the college prep style that never seems to go out of fashion.
Considering that the foundation of collegiate style was established over a
century ago, these student styles have proved to have staying power. Are you ready
to go back to school? Now’s the perfect time to channel your inner student and
ace style class!
These days, many back-to-school looks consist of the same seasonally appropriate attire people already wear all the time. Of course there’s nothing wrong with that, but there was a time when that simply wasn’t the case. Around the end of the ninetieth century, getting “prepped” for school was entirely different. Dress codes were strict for both men and women, so wearing “trends” and exercising “personal style” wasn’t on anyone’s radar.
Today, the androgynous quality of these fashion school seniors helps make these pieces some of my favorites! And don’t worry! Just because I’m a history buff of fashion and other things, doesn’t mean I suggest wearing a head-to-toe look from 1900. Here are a few ideas to keep senior styles feeling like freshmen:
For example, try mixing in a little mod from the 1960s, like this oversized necktie, paired with black and white stripes. Mixing neutrals always adds sophistication, which can be helpful when combining different eras. Unexpected accessories or a fancy bag will push the style envelope even further, and get you an A+ for creativity.
Modern Materials
Plaids, elbow patches, satchels and oxfords, all of which
harken back to earlier days, can still be modern day marvels. One way to shake up
these styles is to pair them with newer textiles. Neoprene is a fashion-forward
material that’s on trend, and a bright pop of color will add interest to the more
traditional greys, reds and blues of fall.
Playing with proportion will add another level to your look. If you cover up on top, try showing a little more skin on the bottom, or vice versa. This helps to create a more balanced look.
As you can see, fall is the perfect opportunity to pay homage to the college prep set. There are a ton of coed chic options that will work for any wardrobe whether you’re heading to work, hanging with friends, or just running around town. Luckily these back to school styles don’t require tuition, so you’re free to try them out or create your own! Just be true to yourself and you’ll ace coed chic with flying colors!
Excited by style in all its forms, Nicole Gordon is
the author and creator of the blog Manners and Moxie, where she documents
her style journey with travel photography and anything else capturing her
fancy. Her career has been spent in the travel industry and as a stylist in San
Francisco, where she currently lives. Nicole grew up in South Carolina
surrounded by antiques, but is also
enamored with clean lines and architectural details. Drawn to the juxtaposition
of opposites, Nicole is both Manners AND Moxie! She believes what you wear
should reflect who you want to be, and that much like travel,
discovering style should be an exciting adventure.
Nicole is part of The Opener , an exclusive, invite-only contributor network that will bring the best food, travel culture, and innovation writing to the pages of Coca-Cola Journey.
These days, many back-to-school looks consist of the same seasonally appropriate attire people already wear all the time. Of course there’s nothing wrong with that, but there was a time when that simply wasn’t the case. Around the end of the ninetieth century, getting “prepped” for school was entirely different. Dress codes were strict for both men and women, so wearing “trends” and exercising “personal style” wasn’t on anyone’s radar.
Today, the androgynous quality of these fashion school seniors helps make these pieces some of my favorites! And don’t worry! Just because I’m a history buff of fashion and other things, doesn’t mean I suggest wearing a head-to-toe look from 1900. Here are a few ideas to keep senior styles feeling like freshmen:


Hang with Upperclassmen
Mixing high and low pieces is generally a mark of smart, savvy style in the fashion world. I think the same can be said of eras. Full skirts and varsity jackets, usually associated with styles from the 1950’s, can be just as chic today with a little help from their upperclassmen.For example, try mixing in a little mod from the 1960s, like this oversized necktie, paired with black and white stripes. Mixing neutrals always adds sophistication, which can be helpful when combining different eras. Unexpected accessories or a fancy bag will push the style envelope even further, and get you an A+ for creativity.


Modern Materials
Plaids, elbow patches, satchels and oxfords, all of which
harken back to earlier days, can still be modern day marvels. One way to shake up
these styles is to pair them with newer textiles. Neoprene is a fashion-forward
material that’s on trend, and a bright pop of color will add interest to the more
traditional greys, reds and blues of fall.Playing with proportion will add another level to your look. If you cover up on top, try showing a little more skin on the bottom, or vice versa. This helps to create a more balanced look.


Find Your Edge
Probably the easiest way to make preppy pieces more modern is by adding a little edge. For that, try distressed denims and pieces with hardware like spikes, studs and grommets. Take classics like Argyle and cable knit sweaters, or striped and plaid shirts and pair them with distressed denim. Instead of your regular handbag, try a backpack! There are tons of adult friendly styles to give your single shoulder a rest.As you can see, fall is the perfect opportunity to pay homage to the college prep set. There are a ton of coed chic options that will work for any wardrobe whether you’re heading to work, hanging with friends, or just running around town. Luckily these back to school styles don’t require tuition, so you’re free to try them out or create your own! Just be true to yourself and you’ll ace coed chic with flying colors!

Nicole is part of The Opener , an exclusive, invite-only contributor network that will bring the best food, travel culture, and innovation writing to the pages of Coca-Cola Journey.
COCA-COLA ON SOCIAL