I started university back in 1997 and graduated with a masters in 2003. This was before everyone was carrying cell phones and were constantly taking pictures of everything. Even without photographic evidence I know my outfits consisted of denim and cotton tops or denim and “going out” tops. I did quite a bit of shopping at Winners and the Gap. I had sparkle jeans, one shoulder tops and chunky heels. I didn’t shop that often back then because I didn’t have a car or much disposable income. If I were going back to school today my outfits would skew more classic and less campus casual. Especially since campus casual was more a combination of whatever hoodie and jean combo I could find that was clean and didn’t smell of the bar. This is my Adult Back to School Capsule Wardrobe.
Adult Back to School Capsule Wardrobe
- Perfect Rainjacket – Back when I was in school I don’t remember having jackets for every occasion. I wish I did though. I have this rain coat right now and I can recommend that not only is it a cute option it is super practical. It is lightweight and easily packable. As I have grown older I prefer a jacket with a hood to carrying around an umbrella.
- Icon Trench – If there is one coat that makes even the most basic outfit chic it is a trench. Ditch the all weather coat and get a trench. Plus if you have to head from school to the office you will fit right in.
- Boiled wool topcoat – For those days that it is cold but not too cold. The bright blue makes a real statement. I always found lecture halls cold. I don’t remember really taking my coat off that often. Smaller classrooms sure but not the big lectures.
- Sweater with stars – I like thin knits because they are easier to layer. They are also great for fall when you don’t really need the extra thick chunky knits. Later in the season layer a thin turtleneck underneath.
- Silk Cashmere Varsity V-neck sweater – I love the colour of this sweater. Even though this is a thin knit it will keep you warm well into the winter season as well. The fabric is luxe enough to wear to work but still looks cute for school.
- Salut tee – Everyone needs a fun tee in their wardrobe. This is perfect for casual Fridays with a blazer or hanging on campus. I wouldn’t load up on graphic tees. Instead load up on this or this for layering. I love the feel of the cotton modal tees. They are super soft and drape beautifully.
- Toothpick jeans – I update my jeans ever few years because they wear out or just don’t fit like they used to anymore. These are my current favourites. If you can wear jeans to the office these are great because there is no distressing or rips.
- Go Weave pants – These pants are one of my favourites for the office. Black is easy to mix and match and the elastic waist makes these a dress pant sweat pant hybrid. These would be great for presentations in class or to head to the office after lectures. If you are spending much of your time back and forth from school to the office you might want to invest more in dress pants than denim.
- Black jeans – I would never have worn black jeans back in the day but now I love them. Jeans in a different colour but still a neutral gives your wardrobe some more depth. Get a darker black if you want to be able to sneak these into your workplace after class.
- 520 sneaker – One of the things I have noticed since I entered the working world is how much walking I did while at school. With a back pack full of books no less. Sensible footwear is a must including cute sneakers.
- Boss Boot – If you are commuting from campus to your day job walkable boots are a great way to transition between the two in style. The leather on these boots is so soft and comfortable and stretches to your foot. The heel isn’t too high. Read my review here.
- Lior Loafer – I own these loafers and they are super comfortable and light weight. These are a perfect for both campus and the office.
- KSNY Large Agenda – I can’t live my life without my planner. If I were going back to school I would have to have one of these. I love that I can plan out my week and month with these. There is also room for to do lists. List out when to work on assignments and when they are due. Not just for school but also for work.
- Neoprene Backpack – When I first started University Dawson’s Creek had just started. I remember having a satchel for a school bag. I learned pretty quickly that it was not a great option. Heavy text books and course notes being lugged across campus need proper support of a real backpack. Back then I didn’t carry a purse, but you could always stash a small crossbody inside for later when you are off campus. Still if you pick a stylish backpack it can work on and off campus.
- Millennie Hat – Bad hair days happen. But this hat isn’t just for those days but for when you have drizzly days. The wide brim is great for keeping rain out of your eyes but still looking chic.
- Tyler Scarf – Last but not least you need a great scarf. I love them for finishing off an outfit but also to fight off the elements when you have to cross campus for class or cheaper parking. Earlier in the season you can choose a silk scarf instead of wool.
We often forget that back to school isn’t just for kids. Supplies you might need? These folders for assignments although you might hand everything in digitally now? Notebooks for taking notes or a computer? I prefer note taking the old fashion way as it is part of my learning process. But so much has changed technology wise. Still you can grab some cute pencils and start learning!
Are you heading back to school? What would your adult back to school capsule wardrobe be to balance work life and school life?