This Random Schoolcore Trend Has Produced Instagram’s Most Popular Outfit
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As a lover of preppy staples and, yes, Gossip Girl, I didn't need a ton of convincing when it came to testing out social media's latest fashion craze, which I've begun to refer to as 'schoolcore.'
"I'm wearing the outfit," I texted my friend last Sunday morning, right before I took a stroll around my neighborhood (since, you know, 2020). No explanation was needed. She already knew I was talking about the same pairing we've seen on almost every influencer: a sweatshirt, a pleated skirt, thick long socks, and sneakers.
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While this type of aesthetic is labeled as "soft girl" to some, the newer name doesn't mean it's actually new. Princess Diana famously wore a similar outfit while playing tennis in the '80s, and pleated skirts had a moment with the popstar crowd in the early '00s. Now, TikTokers and Gen Z seem to have discovered this cutesy, school-uniform-like look (much like they did with "flared leggings") but after seeing this exact outfit repeated multiple times, I decided to get in on it, too. Honestly, it's comfortable and easy to put together, but at the same time, is playful and statement-making, especially if you incorporate graphics and plaid prints.
While I personally opted for an old souvenir sweatshirt, a vintage Etsy skirt (Shop Similar: etsy.com), and celeb-loved Converse, there are a few different variations of the most famous schoolcore outfit. I've rounded up a few ways to wear it, ahead.
With Knee-High Socks and Boots
As the weather gets cooler, you might want to trade in your socks for something warmer that offers extra coverage, such as a pair of tights or knee-highs (Shop similar: $21; nordstrom.com).
With a Graphic T-Shirt
If sweatshirts aren't exactly your style, a statement-making T-shirt (Shop similar: $65; nordstrom.com) will give off a similar vibe and can easily be layered under a cardigan, blazer, or denim jacket.
With Mary-Jane Shoes
It's the must-have footwear trend of 2020, and luckily, the babydoll shoe (Shop Similar: $150; ssense.com) meshes well with these preppy pieces.
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With a Tennis Twist
Swap out the plaid skirt for a solid white option (Shop Similar: $69; athleta.com), which will make the look feel more athleisure than schoolgirl.
With a Light, Neutral Color Scheme
You can spice things up with accessories, including a pair of hoop earrings (Shop Similar: $18; nordstrom.com) and chain necklaces.
With a Classic Mini and a Cardigan
Replace the pleated skirt with a classic mini (Shop Similar: $39; modcloth.com), and the sweatshirt with a knit cardigan. While slightly elevated, these alternatives are similar enough to the original outfit and still feel pretty schoolcore.
