Let’s take a walk down memory lane to the days of school uniforms. Those crisp, white button-down shirts and pleated skirts. Oh for the love of khakis and penny loafers! If you have not personally experienced the uniform routine, you are a lucky Fashionista. For all of us who have been late to school because we couldn’t style the right outfit after rolling out of bed, the thought of uniforms may not sound so bad. There really is only one choice. But if there is only one option, is there really a choice? What if you don’t feel like wearing a forest-green-and-navy plaid, pleated skirt? Then, you put it on anyways. Mourn the part of your fashion soul that just died a little. Don’t worry it will be okay. We saw on Gossip Girl how Serena and Blair accessorized their uniforms like there was no tomorrow. Never has a uniform looked so stylish. Then, S and B graduated from Constance Billard School for Girls and we too left behind any chance of a required schoolgirl uniform. Freed from those uniform constraints, we can wear whatever we want. So, of course now we choose the schoolgirl look, and what a great choice it is. As an alternative to a plaid, pleated skirt, this Fashionista’s skirt is a basic navy color, which makes the transition into this preppy trend a little smoother. The pleated skirt is a fashionable alternative to the ordinary mini skirt. American Apparel has the perfect pleated schoolgirl skirt in five colors. Depending on how committed you are to this trend, you should grab a cozy sweater. Argyle, cable or the ones with elbow patches will complement the skirt perfectly. School is in session and your outfit will definitely be getting an A.

Hint: While school is serious, the schoolgirl trend has no strict rules. Think outside of the box and mix some prints or fabrics. Go for a button-down or a flowy, silk blouse with the pleated skirt. There is a pleated skirt out there for everyone from the plaid or printed to the wool or leather. Yes, leather. Thank you Alice + Olivia.