By Maya Konings, EIC Lifestyle
GWU friends: We are officially back and better than ever. For the past 1.5 years, all I’ve wanted is to return to in-person classes, and we are finally back in the classroom just in time for my senior year (not emo about it at all). In case you hadn’t heard: being back on campus means actually having a reason to dress up again. The upcoming fall season and the (unrealistic) hope of meeting the love of my life in economics class during my final year of school has me incredibly excited to dive into the latest fall fashion trends. Here are the biggest trends that you need for the back-to-school season.
Chunky Boots
There are some trends that come back year after year, and chunky boots for fall are no exception. It is always fun to see exactly how recurring trends manifest each season, and this fall we are seeing edgier variations on classic silhouettes with big soles and fun details. If you still have an old pair of Doc Martens in the back of your closet, this is the time to pull them out. A couple of pairs I’m loving at the moment are these pearl-studded Chelsea boots from BP and the white Puma x Fenty Chelsea sneaker boots. Cowboy boots are also having a moment this season, which are perfect for both a casual outfit for class and the return to Hill Country karaoke (for my 21+ friends).
Leather Pants
Ok, I may be biased in including this trend because I recently bought my first pair of leather pants and am way too excited about them. However, I am here to argue that their versatility in the colder months is truly unmatched. This season, leather pants come in a variety of neutral or bright colors that can be both dressed up and dressed down all season long. Wear them in the same way you would wear jeans or trousers for a fun twist on an otherwise basic outfit. Try this vegan leather pair from Aritzia that I recently invested in, or go with this dupe from Princess Polly.
Blazers, Trousers, and Vests
While incorporating formal and business casual pieces into streetwear for fall is nothing new, this season I expect this trend to be even more popular than ever before. Suits are becoming increasingly casual, made clear by the number of oversized blazers and wide-leg trousers I see paired with basic t-shirts and jeans all over social media. Investing in a good blazer gives you so much versatility, taking you from your internship to class to an impromptu Wednesday night happy hour with your besties.
Academia Vibes
Do you remember when the “dark academia” aesthetic was all over your TikTok For You page? Well, now that we’re actually returning to the college campus, the trend has a renewed relevance. The dark academia trend can be done as subtly or overtly as per your personal style. Fun ways to incorporate a preppy, academic aesthetic are vests, layered button-down shirts and pleated tennis skirts. I’m also loving the look of vintage-inspired college sweatshirts like this one from Princess Polly and preppy sweaters like this Amazon one for when temperatures drop.
