4 Kinds Of Fall Wardrobe Staples That Always Work Double-Duty, From The Campus To The City

Whether you spent the last few months interning, logged into online classes, or just taking time off to rest and recharge, this summer has flown by. And with August coming to a swift close, many college campuses are making a return to in-person classes this school year. At last, the beginnings of a revived and somewhat normal semester are in the air. After many months indoors, I’ll be the first to admit my wardrobe has been sadly neglected. But when your campus doubles as a 24/7 street-style runway in NYC, as mine does, a return to in-person classes means a serious need to address one’s wardrobe.

For those also returning to the city, you might notice that while your favorite East Village bodega hasn’t changed much, the social attitude toward dressing has definitely shifted. The post-quarantine precedent of style-meets-practicality has been set by a scattering of playful sidewalk cafés and a renewed interest in the forgotten corners of our closets. We’ve adjusted our wardrobes to include the more comfortable — but timeless — pieces for every outing, like cozy everyday staples from American Eagle. Keeping up with the spirit of the city, this semester is an opportunity to reintroduce ourselves. And because first impressions are everything, we’re starting at the root: four kinds of classic fall pieces that provide the ultimate fashion foundation for whatever the season brings next.

Varsity Staples For East Village Coffee Shop Hangs

There’s nothing as tried and true as a classic varsity-inspired piece to set the mood, whether you’re hunkering down for a study sesh at a coffee shop in the East Village or running a few errands in bustling West Village. Throw a cable-knit cardigan over your go-to sundress while browsing for textbooks — and a few new records — at your favorite Washington Square bookstore. For a more relaxed look, opt for the varsity striped sweater. Its cropped cut pairs well with your favorite high-waisted jeans for just about anything.

Retro-Inspired Denim For Every Kind Of City Night

When you finally have time off from your hectic class schedule, the ultimate pair of blue jeans is key. Upgrade your collection with retro styles inspired by decades gone by — American Eagle has some great, affordable updates to ’60s flares and ’90s mom jeans. Whether you’re stopping by a bohemian hotel in Chelsea for lunch (flares, tee, and moto jacket), or meeting a date on the West Side (mom jeans, silky cami, and lace-up sandals), a timeless pair of jeans will last you many dollar slice stains.

Bohemian Peasant Tops For Outdoor Study Sessions

For a waterfront study session at Domino Park, opt for something breezy and relaxed like a peasant blouse. Whether yours features flutter sleeves, cinched sleeves, a tassel-tie detail, or intricate floral print, it’s the quintessential comfy-meets-cute NYC essential. Wear with jeans beneath a military-inspired shacket, or pair with a varsity cable-knit cardigan for a low-key collegiate vibe.

Oversized Flannel For Morning Market Runs

An oversized flannel is an irreplaceable part of the Sunday morning grocery run look. It gives “model off-duty” with a side of “’90s sitcom main-character” energy, and that’s a winning combo if we’ve ever seen it. Before checking out the Chinatown food market, throw your flannel over a sweater or cropped tee. Size up for even cozier vibes, and style with your favorite shoulder bag and vintage pant for a cool and carefree look.