As we near the end of the summer, we can’t help but feel nostalgic for that school-is-back-in-session excitement and the preppy dressing that goes along with it. This sentiment is not one that only we share, either. On the fall 2022 runways, the school spirit could not be missed, from timeless varsity-style jackets at Charles Jeffrey Loverboy to Prada’s pleated skirts, rugby polo shirts from Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch tracksuits, and the perfect polo courtesy of Wales Bonner. Fashion’s new-school take on collegiate prepster dressing is in many parts thanks to designers like Wales Bonner and Gucci, whose collections of retro athletic-inspired attire have brought back all the good things about your vintage school uniform. One of the great things about having a wardrobe of uniform classics is that it requires very little effort to get dressed in the morning—an especially important factor to consider as we begin our post-summer return to the office.
Scholarly style staples traditionally worn by the Ivy League elite—like cable-knit sweaters and logo-emblazoned cardigans—can be found from fashion-favorite brands Miu Miu and Gucci, while jock-approved rugby shirts from Kule and Rowing Blazers are also up for grabs. Autumnal argyles from Marni and Khaite and prep-school plaids from Blazé Milano and Sandro are a few fall patterns to replace your summertime florals and stripes. Sport workout attire with a ’70s flair courtesy of a pair of Adidas x Wales Bonner gym shorts, a Balenciaga cropped hoodie, or a vintage-inspired T-shirt from The Row. Retro sneakers are having a moment, of course, thanks in part to Tory Burch and Loewe.
Embracing your scholarly side has never looked chicer, and this crop of designers seems to think so too. This fall collegiate, preppy dressing takes on a high-fashion twist. Shop our edit of collegiate cardigans, varsity-style jackets, prep-school plaids, and more, below.
Varsity-Style Jackets
Throw on a varsity-style jacket this fall to feel the school spirit. From Saint Laurent to Everlane, these jackets are jock approved.
Pleats, Please!
Preppy, pleated school skirts were all over the runways this season, from Prada and Wales Bonner to Miu Miu and Thom Browne. This is one school-uniform style to stock up on.
Collegiate Cardigans and Cable-Knits
Scholarly style staples like cable-knit sweaters and logo-emblazoned cardigans can be found from fashion-favorite brands Miu Miu and Gucci. Chevron sweaters from Tory Burch and Lacoste feel especially retro.
Prep-School Plaid Blazers
Prep-school plaid is a timeless fall print, and these checked blazers are the perfect return-to-office wardrobe staple. Pair with a pleated skirt to really enforce the schoolgirl style.
Argyle All the Time
Like plaid, argyle is another autumnal pattern to consider when building your fall wardrobe. Think of it as a welcome replacement for your summer florals and stripes.
The Perfect Knit Polo
Designers like Wales Bonner, Gucci, and Thom Browne have mastered the preppy knit polo. Slouchier in style, these look perfect tucked into a pleated skirt or pant.
Rugby Rules
At Louis Vuitton’s fall 2022 show, the final looks featured striped rugby shirts tied around the models’ waists. If that’s not a sign to invest in the style, then we don’t know what is.
Track and Field
Designer tracksuits from Tory Burch, Wales Bonner, and Gucci are elevated versions of your dad’s tracksuits from the ’70s.
Recreational Sports
Get physical in any of these retro-inspired workout styles. Gym class never looked so good!
Retro Sneakers
Retro sneakers are having a moment, of course, especially with this navy-and-white style from Tory Burch and Adidas x Gucci’s red velvet Gazelles.
