How To Build A Perfectly Laidback Back-To-School Wardrobe

The summer before I moved to Los Angeles to start college, reinventing my style was high on my priority list. Growing up in a small town outside of Atlanta that wasn’t exactly a fashion mecca, I had always seen fashion as a creative outlet, a tool for me to stand out against the norm. However, when it really hit me that I would be relocating to a city where so many of my style inspirations lived, I began to panic: What if my personal style didn’t fit in with the glamorous West Coast?

I held on to these concerns even after I moved, but gradually my outlook began to change. Exploring different neighborhoods in the creative city made me realize that I didn’t have to conform to whatever mainstream style I had once idolized because there was an almost infinite number of styles on display. From cottagecore to kidcore, Western to goth, I came to appreciate how uniquely college students dressed both on and off L.A. campuses, and how the area’s nuanced style profile made space for every gender identity, ethnicity, and body type to participate.

If you want a taste of the plethora of styles the area has to offer, take a look at some of the pieces American Eagle is serving up this semester. No matter your style preference, you’ll find that fall fashion in L.A. is all about being true to yourself. If that means standing out, then step right into your spotlight — this is La-la Land, after all.

Go Y2K The Cali Way

Ever since the trend’s explosive resurgence last year, Y2K-inspired pieces have been go-tos for fashion enthusiasts everywhere. In Los Angeles, halter tops, flare jeans, cropped tops, and vibrant midi skirts have become the standard for night-out looks and brunch dates alike. If you’ve been meaning to try this style out for yourself, start by investing in a pair of high-rise flare jeans, as they’re an essential base for any Y2K outfit. Crop tops are also key components of the early aughts look; here we’ve teamed a baby tee with a cropped knit zip-up to pay homage to the heyday of your favorite sassy doll collection (hint: oversized heads ring a bell?).

Play The Romantic Lead

Flowy, delicate silhouettes have been a favorite amongst L.A.’s fashion-forward crowd this summer. Now that back-to-school season is upon us, we’ll likely see details that encompass the romantic trend (think: lace embroidery and ruche gathering) make an appearance on college campuses. To make the look more wearable for the hectic nature of student life, complement one statement piece with more casual, minimalist pieces. For this look, we’ve opted for a flowy blouse with eyelet detailing. This look is ideal for the first day of classes, as it’s sophisticated, but comfortable enough for navigating across campus from point A to point B.

Get To It In Workwear Staples

Boiler suits. Carpenter pants. Overalls. In the streetwear hub that is L.A, these pieces reign supreme. Looking to dip your toes into this trend this semester? Try opting for more oversized silhouettes with utilitarian details, such as this olive green shacket. Because workwear pieces tend to be minimalist design-wise, steer clear of bold prints and keep your color palette streamlined. Show off this look the next time you’re exploring the arts district or meeting up with your friends for a show on the strip.

Put Some Prep In Your Step

Ever since the sweater vest craze of last fall, preppy styles have slowly been making their way back into our wardrobes. Argyle sweaters, pleated skirts, and trousers have been seen on L.A. It-girls (your favorite YouTube personalities included). Because there’s no better setting to flaunt school-girl chic fits than, well, school, try incorporating some into your wardrobe this semester. Here, we’ve gone for a classic approach to the preppy look — with the exception of the graphic tee, which serves to dress the look down. As for accessories, try a string of pearls and loafers. Outside of the classroom, this look is best suited for date night at the LACMA or coffee at a cozy Silver Lake cafe.