Between mean girls, midterms, and college prep, we can all agree that high school was hard enough without the addition of school uniforms. However, hindsight isn’t always 20/20, and our annual Gilmore Girls and Gossip Girl rewatches have us yearning for the effortless preppy aesthetic that East Coast private schools tend to bring.
With our ever-evolving love for rom-coms and 90's shows, school-girl style feels more prominent than ever. Whether your take on the trend feels like Cher Horowitz’s bright plaid or veers more toward Rory Gilmore’s cozy New England staples, we’ve found a few key pieces that will help you recreate the magic of these *iconic* outfits – just in time for the semester.
Ahead, find the best blazers, coziest cable-knits, and most perfect plaids that will make you a preppy legend for back to school.
Oversized Blazers
Oversized blazers are a must to sport preppy style. They are super easy to wear: just throw one on over your warmest sweater this fall, and you're ready to step out. Scroll for our fave picks for all budgets!
J. Crew Collarless Lady Jacket in Maritime Tweed ($298)
This one will have everyone saying "Hi, Barbie!" thanks to its gorgeous bubblegum pink hue.
Garnet Hill Knit Relaxed Blazer ($169)
Oversized styles like this one ensure that you're still romping around campus in comfort.
Light Before Dark Cally Cropped Striped Blazer ($99)
For a trendier and more youthful take on preppy style, opt for a cropped blazer and a small tank.
Abercrombie Classic Suiting Blazer ($120)
Match this navy coat to some cozy slacks, and you're presentation-ready.
Plaid
Though reminiscent of the dreaded school uniform, plaid patterns can really elevate your everyday look to be super prep-inspired. Whether it's an overcoat or a wide-leg pant, try out plaids with bright colors to bring some excitement into your preppy wardrobe!
ELOQUII Oversize Plaid Cotton Blazer ($122, was $140)
Pink over everything! Why not combine two of the season's best preppy styles with this plaid-clad blazer?
Trina Turk Delhi Pant ($285, was $378)
Make a statement in these wide-leg pants that have plaid written all over them. Total power move.
Isabel Marant Etoile Fontia Long Shacket ($289, was $850)
For chillier evenings spent studying in the library, make sure you come prepared with a warm jacket. But don't make it boring – go for plaid.
Reformation Franklin Pant ($125, was $178)
Pleated Skirts
Pair a pleated skirt with tights and a blazer this season to channel the preppy vibes. Here are a few of our favorites!
H&M Pleated A-Line Skirt ($25)
It's giving professional. The pleats on this skirt may be played down a bit, but the whole ensemble will make a massive on-campus statement.
Reformation Tessa Skirt ($104, was $148)
For a flirtier fit, this skirt from Reformation will do.
Abercrombie Pleated Menswear Mini Skort ($60)
Tastefully cut, this skort will become your class outfit go-to in no time.
Everlane The City Stripe Midi Skirt ($51, was $128)
When it's time to cover up, but you still want to look cute, a pleated midi skirt steps in with the best elevated details.
Vests
There's nothing like a stylish sweater vest to remind us of the preppy coastal grandmother aesthetic that's been trending this year. Try layering one over a cotton button-up shirt for the season!
ME+EM Cotton Mouliné Stripe V Neck Vest ($151, was $215)
This color-blocked sweater vest is *the* moment.
State Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Vest ($150)
This vest is the ultimate companion to go over button-ups and baby tees. You can make any look yours with a touch of prep!
Madewell Basketweave-Stitch Vest ($55)
Whether you wear this piece layered up or not, it'll still provide the cutest touch of preppy style for any season.
Rag & Bone Priya Cotton Blend Vest ($275)
This vest is a touch more structured, plus the gold buttons elevate the look even more.
Oxfords and Loafers
Oxfords and loafers are the perfect footwear for school-friendly prep looks that can *also* be taken into the professional realm.
Vionic Alfina Oxford ($130)
These cozy oxford shoes have the right amount of sole and tread for the busy girls on campus.
Vagabond Cosmo 2.0 Loafer ($175)
An edgier option, these chunky loafers from Vagabond make for a perfect every day wear.
Franco Sarto Bazel Platform Loafer ($60, was $110)
Polished and prim, with just the perfect amount of trendiness, these white loafers will pair well with any back to school 'fit.
Doc Martens 8065 Smooth Leather Mary Janes ($140)
Mary Jane shoes are a *classic*.
Sweaters and Cardigans
What's chilly season without a good sweater? Keep warm in prep style by going for cable-knits and argyle patterns.
Rachel Antonoff Cori Cardigan ($206, was $295)
There's always more opportunity for color! This patterned cardi infuses your everyday looks with joy.
BDG Bella Recycled Zip-Up Cardigan ($59)
The striped edges on this zip-up piece are preppy style's best partner.
J.Crew Cable-Knit V-Neck Cardigan Sweater ($118, was $148)
Chunky cable knits FTW! This sweater will keep you warm and cozy with all the style your school year wardrobe requires.
BDG Carter Recycled Pullover Sweater ($69)
The more stripes, the better. This prep-infused piece can be worn with jeans or skirts!
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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
Header image via Urban Outfitters
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