Here’s my take on J Crew’s Lookbook for fall, and the best way to adapt individual pieces to campus. All items from outside of the Lookbook, unless otherwise noted, are sourced from their original brand via RompBomp.
1. The best thing about this look is the fabulous turquoise pants. But satin pants threaten to be too dressy for class unless you take them down a notch with flats instead of heels. And to be honest, the electric blue isn’t my favorite color pairing. For a top, I’d wear something like this one from Nordstrom.
2. In the next look, I love the sweater. It could be a great transition piece for your fall wardrobe with some perforated wedges–like these ones from Lilly Pulitzer–and boyfriend-esque jeans from one of J Crew’s older collections. A bright clutch like this one from BCBG Max Azria adds a pop of color to pay tribute to the stylist’s original intentions. Unfortunately, this specific clutch is no longer available, but here is a picture from Polyvore.
3. Call me crazy but I would have no qualms rocking the next outfit in its entirety–do think that I’d opt for black pumps, though.
4. THE SWEATER. Who doesn’t want to accessorize that with a mug of dark roast and a good book? Forget the maroon skirt, and leave the shoes for frisky Friday. All this needs is a RL scarf and some jeans.
5. I really like these bow pants, and I even like the shoes…But I’d pair this with a white Oxford shirt to keep the look classic. Leave the sweater to wear with some brown twill trousers.
6. This Fair Isle sweater is great, but the monochromatic look does nothing for me. I much prefer it with a khaki skirt and flats to keep things simple. Multiple BCBG rings make a better received statement than bubble gum heels on a weekday in New England.
And now, things that are worth a purchase, but better left for home on break…
7. Fur is OTT for a traditional college campus. Best worn with long, elegant jewelry for a night out in the city (Nordstrom).
8. I’m having trouble picturing these maroon, leather gloves in the daytime fall wardrobe unless it’s truly glove weather. Wear them with a black peacoat while at Bowdoin, and experiment with an olive trench while home.