How do I get that schoolgirl chic without appearing like an actual student?

How do I get that schoolgirl chic without appearing like an actual student?

Schoolgirl chic is a fun trend, but one that you have to navigate carefully so that you do not look like jailbait or worse, like a real student. There are some elements of the school uniform, that translate well to everyday outfits long after you have graduated.

The first would be a collar. The Peter Pan collar, which is curved rather than angular, is particularly schoolgirl-esque and sweet.

You can find the accent on many pieces today, including this leopard print Zara top (photo 1, $79.90, at B1-12 Takashimaya Shopping Centre). Pair it with pants so the outfit does not look too saccharine sweet or juvenile.

Faded skinny jeans, like this Uniqlo pair (photo 2, $59.90, from 01-382 Suntec City Mall), add a casual vibe that turns the look into one that is easily wearable.

You can also achieve the collared look with a dickey, like this scalloped version from Cos (photo 3, $49, from 03-23 Ion Orchard). It fakes the look of a layered shirt without the bulk and is perfect for the hot weather.

Another fun schoolgirl element is the pleated skirt. To give it a more sophisticated spin, pick a knee-length skirt with thin rather than thick pleats, like this red Mango skirt (photo 4, $89, from www.zalora.sg). It looks feminine and ballerina-esque but is more age appropriate than a mini skirt with thick pleats.

Top off the look with a casual but simple sweater like this quilted one from Bershka (photo 5, $59.90, from B2-09 Ion Orchard). Anything with buttons would be taking the schoolgirl look too literally.

For footwear, you can achieve a bit of schoolgirl chic with loafers like this Pedder Red pair (photo 6, $230, from 03-04 Takashimaya Shopping Centre) or Mary Janes. Just be sure to avoid pairing them with any of the earlier mentioned elements or you may look like you are late for class.


This article was first published on Sept 19, 2014.
Get a copy of Urban, The Straits Times or go to straitstimes.com for more stories.

This website is best viewed using the latest versions of web browsers.