Styling School Uniforms

Clockwise from top left: Orchid Grey  •  Need source  •  Urban Outfitters  •  To Be Adored  •  Need source  •  Refinery 29

A few weeks ago a blog reader contacted me with styling question regarding school uniforms. She's starting at a new school this year and wanted my advice on how to look cute despite being tied down to the same oxford blouses, polos, slacks, and kilts all year long. I thought it was a fun challenge and decided to turn it into a Sync article (pg 12-13). I went around town borrowing pieces from local shops and put together a fun back to school look, which my little sister ended up modeling.

But before I knew it would be a Sync article, I put together these collages for the blog. I found so many great ways to dress up a classic button up, be it with a lace collar, a brooch, an oversized bow, or even a pocket full of posies. I also styled a couple of looks with pieces from some of my favorite online shops.

I never had to wear uniforms when I was in school, but I think it would be fun. Everyday you start with the same simple canvas and get to build it into something exciting. I'm sure it does get old after a while, but take it from Sheena of The Uniform Project, it's definitely possible––just watch this if you need inspiration!

I always enjoy doing this sort of thing, so if you're ever feeling fashionably stumped, feel free to shoot me an email and I'll see what I can do to help––starrcrow@live.com. Until then, happy styling to you!

Because I put this article together two weeks ago and didn't compile a list of links at the time, I need a little help with sourcing! If you know the owner of the unsourced photos, please let me know who they belong to so I can issue proper credit.

Topshop Cardigan  •  French Toast Blouse  •  American Apparel Pants  •  Urban Outfitters Bag  •  Etsy Horse Brooch

French Toast Blouse  •  Old Navy Pants  •  Forage Bow Tie  •  Urban Outfitters Oxfords

Thrift Trip Magic

My latest round of thrifting was inspired by American Apparel and their overpriced cable knit pullovers. I spent some time on their site the other day, trying to exchange a dress for something else I liked, but the only things I saw were incredibly overpriced or out of stock. Frustrated by $70 pullovers and 'out of stock' signs on the only colors I wanted, I opted to ask for a refund instead. With all that extra money in the bank, I decided to take that inspiration to the thrift store. I was on a mission to find an affordable cable knit pullover.

Who knew I was about to find so much more than just that! It was on the first rack I went to at Goodwill, along with a white Lacoste cardigan. Then I found that J. Crew gingham button up, and the chambray button up tank (that's layered underneath the pullover in the first photograph). The chambray blouse is great because it's sleeveless: no more worrying about bulky sleeves underneath my sweaters.

I also lucked out and found a couple other button ups, too. My favorite of those is a men's plaid, wool shirt, perfect for the days when I want to look like I borrowed from the boyfriend. In the accessories aisle, I found a beautiful navy Dooney & Bourke satchel and a YSL brown leather belt!

Needless to say, it was a lucky day of thrifting.