Back To School Style Tips for Dressing on a Student Budget

It’s this time of the year again: the cooler weather takes hold as the beginning of September kicks off, and we all know what that means – back to school! Whether you are still in college or attending university (as I currently am, going into my final year!), finding a stylish outfit on a student budget can seem a bit daunting. The first day back is the day to make a lasting impression, but it’s also where you can show off your style! From staple pieces that won’t break the bank to effortless hairstyles and trending accessories, I’ve got a couple of style tips that will give you ideas for the perfect back-to-school look! Just keep on reading…

1. THE CRISP WHITE SHIRT

This one is a must-have — if you don’t already have one in your closet, I suggest you get one ASAP! They will be your outfit saviour for when you feel like wearing something simple and minimal, and they can be styled with pretty much anything! I have endless varieties of the crisp white shirt, with long sleeves, with pockets, or cropped mid-waist – they can be paired so easily with denim or skirts and they can be worn all year round. A definite closet staple!

2. THE SIGNATURE LEATHER JACKET

Another closet staple is the signature black leather jacket, which I’m sure we all owned at some point in time! It’s the perfect addition for back-to-school and is undoubtably cool paired with a white shirt and denim jeans, giving the outfit a little more edge and that ‘biker chic’ look! Depending on the weather, a leather jacket is ideal for mid-season dressing when the days get cooler – even worn draped over your shoulders!

3. THE EMBROIDERED JEAN

With one of the top trends this autumn/winter taking inspiration from high-fashion brands such as Gucci, embroidery has made its mark on the high-street. A statement jean is the perfect trend-led piece to style up a staple shirt as well as show your taste in fashion! I’ve been obsessing over this dark wash high-waisted pair from Pretty Little Thing, the embroidered flowers give such a chic vibe!

4. EDGY DETAILS

To give off an edgy vibe, statement accessories are key to adding a more stylish touch to your back-to-school look! For this outfit I went for the trend of the moment since the 90s came back into fashion, and that is the black choker (this one is from Chiara Ferragni Collection). These neck accessories have made their way into everyone’s wardrobes, and I must admit I completely love wearing them as they add detail and a ‘cool-girl’ attitude to your look! 

For shoes I went for black heeled boots from Pretty Little Thing to make more of a statement and really compliment the length of the high-waisted jeans! You can also style this look with white sneakers or flat boots. And finally when going back-to-school you mustn’t forget a watch – I have always needed one in class! The one I’m wearing is patent black from Marc Bale with gold hardware, it’s minimal and ties in nicely with the full look.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and that it gave you some helpful style tips for back-to-school dressing! I’d love to know what you think of this look!

Photography by Edward Berthelot for Getty Images

Shop This Look

Shirt: Pretty Little Thing / Jeans: Pretty Little Thing / Jacket: Pretty Little Thing / Shoes: Pretty Little Thing / Watch: Marc Bale / Choker: Chiara Ferragni