Queries for Clarabelle: What to wear back to school…when you’re an adult

Today we are going to help the lovely author of The Beauty File. She is headed back to school and in need of a wardrobe assistance:

I’m having a bit of a fashion crisis right now and might need your help…I just became a student again and do not know what to wear… I need a signature go to look and a consult!!!

First and foremost, congrats! Going back to school is very rewarding (and extremely challenging). I wish you all the best. Second, I understand your qualms about a lack of things to wear. Heading back to school at an older age is completely different from being a starry eyed 18-year-old freshmen. Unfortunately, sweats, mini jean skirts, and Ugg boots won’t do the trick.

When you go back to school as an adult, you are usually doing so for a professional reason. Therefore, your look should reflect that. You can’t rock up to class in VS PINK sweats, a hoodie and a messy bun; nor can you wear a business suit and embarrass yourself. In short, your look should be:

Casually Professional

Here are few tips:

You cannot go wrong with a good pair of skinnies. They are sleek and feminine, but they also have a nice tailored look that has a perfect professional edge. They are comfortable enough for a 3  hour class, but sleek enough to be taken seriously.

Note** Do make sure your skinny jeans aren’t too skinny. Notice the jeans above have a little give to them. Make sure your legs are getting enough blood circulating through them.

Whether it has preppy piping, feminine ruffles or it looks like you borrowed it from your boyfriend, you cannot go wrong with the perfect blazer. This is a must have for the hallowed halls of higher education institutions. Also, the right blazer can go with any outfit. Throw it on before school for the perfect touch of class.

Walk to class, walk to your second class, walk to the library, walk to lunch, walk to meet your professor, walk to a meeting, walk back to class, walk to grab dinner, walk to last class, walk to car, walk into house, climb into bed. There’s a lot of walking involved with going back to school. Don’t hurt yourself by wearing heels.

Since we are on the topic of shoes; do invest invest in a nice pair of rain boots. It’s terribly difficult to concentrate on a lecture when the entire bottom half of your brand new skinny jeans are sopping wet.

No more backpacks, ya’ll! Here’s a simple rule to use when buying your university tote. If you are going to school below the Mason-Dixon line, the bag better be Vera Bradley. If you are going to school above the Mason-Dixon line the bag should be leather or canvas and one solid color. However, do leave the L.L. Bean backpack at home.

Going back to school means tons of presentations! While a full suit isn’t usually necessary you still have to look sleek and professional. The pencil skirt is figure flattering and professional. Buy one in black and dark grey.

Here is some more inspiration:

This look is perfectly effortless, conservative and not too stuffy or relaxed. An ideal outfit for a lecture class or a quick coffee meeting with a professor. The outfit is comfy but also says “take me seriously”.

Perfect presentation attire. Feminine and flirty without showing too much skin.

Another great look for class. Though do replace those heels with flats!

Good luck at school!