Class is in Session

While summer affords an ease with warmer weather and a slower pace, as we descend, like the leaves from the trees, into the cooler, wind-whipped seasons, our wardrobes mimic the austere air. Despite how grown-up we may be, the early autumn culture of ‘Back to School’ inspires a nostalgic excitement for our new uniforms—only this time, we can invest in more than a polyester blazer and tie.

Recently, Californian brand Vince has nailed their approach to back to school style, offering a more fashion forward alternative to fall and leaving dowdy winter wardrobes in the dust. We’ve long been fans of their collections, as Brit Creative Director Caroline Belhumeur has honed in a laid back, elegant vibe - California meets French chic and our closets are always happier when we invest in a Vince piece because we wear it forever.

With the new AW24 collection, our personal favourites include the tan suede blazer, keying into a huge trend we have seen across the runways recently and the mid-rise leather pencil skirt. Available in black and forest green, the supple leather skirt, as modelled by our very own editor, Nell, can be styled for both the boardroom and the bar afterwards. While at because we dont believe in such a thing as being ‘over-dressed’, for the more wares-wary amongst us we understand that a leather pencil skirt might sound slightly daunting. Paired with some chunky soled shoes and a white shirt, suddenly a conventional office silhouette is given the cool-girl touch. Or if a ballet flat is more your vibe, style with a baggy jumper and an inconveniently small bag for that “I’m Parisian and I’m running to the boulangerie” look. 

As the temperatures drop and we two-step it from district line to desk, Vince’s take on a peacoat elevates outwear with leather accents and a boxy fit. While the wool-blend coat and the herringbone jacket lean into more classically sartorial pieces, their elevated design and fit means you don't run the risk of swaying into detective-esque outerwear territory. To keep Paddington Bear comparisons at bay, style the peacoat with some dark wash loose jeans and a pair of blister-averse loafers. Or if you’re feeling fancy (oo la la) try a satin skirt and cinch the coat at the waist, pair with a pointy flat and Pret won’t know what’s hit ‘em.

We know office dressing can be a bore. Finding your balance between professional and stylish while attempting to establish yourself stylistically—all before 9 a.m.?! But fear not. While the 'Zone 1 outfit in Zone 5' problem might persist, blur those lines by styling elevated pieces with more laid-back commuter-friendly adornments. Ever heard the saying, dress for the job you want? Well, whether you're project managing or the head of coffee runs, you'll certainly be looking front row ready with these fashion first, office second looks.