Fashion Gets Schooled
Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at 05:55PM 
Remember when kids wore uniforms? The days when a miniskirt was unacceptable for school? The boys wore their button-down shirts, dockers, loafers, and ties without putting up a fight. The girls were so cute, with their riding boots, pleated skirts, and polo shirts. Look around now. Kids don’t dress that way anymore. But this year, adults do. One of this years many trends in ready to wear fall/ winter shows, was the classic schoolgirl look.
Every designer had heir own take on this iconic style. Prada used cable-knits, plaid, and lace, yet keeping the essential element of Prada: the hand-painted skirt. Dior brought this look to the next level when he combined it with the equestrian and polo style. Chanel’s tweeds (and Karl Lagerfeld’s brilliant ties) brought the look to a new level; also Coco Cocoon made the classic Chanel quilting into a backpack. And for Ralph Lauren, the enviable prep school look is always a part of his collections.
Why do we love the schoolgirl look?
Maybe it is for the irony. The idea of not being at school but dressing like it. Or perhaps not even that. No school would ever issue those outfits as a uniform. They are something you might actually wear, as opposed to any private or public school’s uniform, which students strongly dislike.
Conceivably it is because it gives the wearer an “intellectual feel”. They look strong, sophisticated and smart. When people think of uniforms, they think of the elite prep schools, where uniforms are worn. It is a stereotype, but for many people, uniform means “better”.
But there’s no denying that this trend is fabulous and once again fashionable. It combines the classics with modern style, making an irresistible look.
Reader Comments (4)
Love the Chanel backpack! Now I want one.
Me too. Wish I had one in school.
I wish my school's uniform was as chic as these pictures.
Great writing and good insight into why women like wearing the classic uniform style. I personally love the look.