I spend time with some of the most fashionable people in Wichita every day – high school girls. From the way they personalize their uniforms to the way they can make jeans and a school T-shirt look like high fashion, it’s apparent these girls know how to put an outfit together.

My own high school fashion career was spotty at best, as most people who went to school in the ’90s can probably relate to. The flannel shirts and chunky shoes would definitely not stand up to today’s standards. But now, in my sixth year of teaching high school, I find myself more aware of trends than ever before.

Straight from the mouths of my students and into your closet, here’s a little cheat sheet of some of the big high school trends and how adults can make them their own:

Plaid – Instead of a flimsy, thin plaid shirt, try a plaid trench or scarf. Also, for a cute twist, take an old, oversized flannel shirt (from the boyfriend’s closet or DAV) and belt it. Pair with slim jeans or a skirt.

Uggs or boots with jeans tucked in – Uggs are the trend that refuse to die. Every year, magazines say they are over and every year I see my students wearing them every chance they get – some start as early as September. I’m not a huge fan of the Australian boots and I think the older you are, the more you look like you’re trying too hard when you wear them. However, I do love all the other fall boots in leather and suede. Tuck your jeans into them and you’re good to go.

Scarves – Still great. I have 20+ of them. There’s no wrong way to wear a scarf, no matter what your age

High-waisted skirts – I saw a lot of these during the summer, but they could be done for fall with thick tights and boots. Pretty universally flattering.

’80s – Woo hoo! Some of you may have vintage ’80s – pull it back out. Bright colors, colored denim and off-the-shoulder tops are all back in. Unless you want to look like you’re heading to a costume party, just do one at a time.

Stacks of bracelets – I don’t really see my students wearing bangles, but they like to layer on the handmade friendship and beaded bracelets. I’ve seen several with 20 0r more on a wrist, but for adults I wouldn’t go for more than five or so. Picking more neutral colors and simpler beads would make them more age appropriate.

Headbands - Okay, tangent. I really like going into Pink Saloon and looking at all the pretty clothes and accessories, but I can’t afford a lot of it. Recently, they had cute plastic headbands with vintage brooches glued to the top. A bit too much for my budget, but I’ve noticed a lot of my students wearing similar styles of headbands. If you don’t want to splurge on the store-bought version, why not pull out the hot glue gun and try making one yourself? I’m going to try it as soon as I finish writing this post.

Leggings - These are tricky, huh? I do think they’re wearable for most people, but the trick is pairing them with a long enough shirt, cardigan, or oversized blazer. While I don’t think I’ll be giving this trend a go anytime soon, If you do, send us your tips!

If you try out any of these trends for high school and beyond, send me a picture and you could be featured in a future post! Happy dressing!

(image source)

Related posts:

1. [wear] Real Men Wear Boots
2. [wear] Men’s Fashion for Real Men
3. [wear] Top Fall Shoe Trends (and Where to Get Them)
4. [wear] Too Much of a Good Thing
5. [wear] Women’s Winter Fashion Essentials