Sometimes when I think about how easy it was being a kid, I wish I could trade in my adult responsibilities and turn back time. When we’re kids, we don’t realize how liberating it is to spend our time learning and enjoying life. And before we know it, we’re adults… with all the responsibilities that come with it.

That’s definitely become super apparent with Dave and my house purchase haha. Nothing like a mortgage to really make you feel like an adult and make you realize you’ve left your childhood behind.

Not that I regret anything, but I think it reminds me to really appreciate every moment we have in our lives. Time passes so quickly.

back to school style tips

And every September, this feeling comes back in full force as I watch my sister start a new year of university and younger kids shop for school supplies. I didn’t spend as much time as I probably should have focussing on learning haha but I did learn how to be efficient with my style for school… and those skills have translated to my work-wear.

Throughout high school, I got to wear a uniform. And although I hated not being able to express my style during those years, it sure taught me how to be efficient. Despite the fact that I don’t have to wear a uniform anymore, I’ve realized that my “uniform” still exists for my daily routine… it’s just evolved.

I’m rounding up my top 5 style tips that make dressing for school (or the office) super easy. So much so that I literally still use these tips every morning before a meeting or before entering into the office.

back to school style tips

When in doubt, slap on a blazer. Make sure you find comfy ones though! I find that cotton based blazers are always the most comfortable. And a good blazer literally adds professionalism to any outfit. You could be wearing a plain t-shirt… but a blazer will class it up.

I’ve literally collected a comfy blazer in every single neutral shade (and some statement colours too)! Half of my collection, including this grey Ponte Notch Blazer, is from my friends at Le Chateau. Their suiting is super on point and so well tailored. That, and they’re all mostly made in Canada – a huge plus in my books!

back to school style tips

Growing up, I was obsessed with tote bags. Since I had a lunch bag, gym clothes, and often tons of textbooks to carry around, a tote was necessary. Now that I spend most of day running around from meeting to meeting, I realized that a tote bag really just lets me carry more than I need.

So in the spirit of efficiency, I found that finding the perfect medium bag that will hold a pair of flats, my essentials (wallet, phone, lipstick), my camera, and perhaps my 13 inch laptop/ipad, is just perfect. Finding the right working bag for your lifestyle is key. Not too big, not too small, but just right.

This new Coach x Selena Gomez purse is my new go-to work bag. And the red adds a nice pop to my almost-always neutral outfits.

back to school style tips

And if you’re looking for that extra bit of trendy statement this season, I find that a statement sleeve goes a long way. It’s not too loud that it makes you look or feel “extra” (although, if being wild makes you feel great – do that!), but adds just the right amount of flare.

Personally, I’m in love with the layered statement sleeve and blazer look. The only downside? If you’re clumsy like me, your sleeves are stained by the end of the day haha but I’m willing to sacrifice my laundry and dry cleaning bill for a cool sleeve detail.

back to school style tips

This is by far my #1 tip. Whether you’re running from class to class, have a presentation mid-day, or are going from events to meetings, carrying a set of heels and flats is so key. You never know where life is going to take you, and being able to dress up and down at the flick of a wrist has saved my butt so many times.

Ain’t no one got time for blisters because of heels or wishing you had brought a pair of heels to attend that surprise event or function.

My go-to are a classic pointy toe stiletto and a my favourite pair of Geox loafers. Specifically, Geox. Their soles are the absolute comfiest, hands down, full stop.

back to school style tips

A good statement accessory finishes any look. I love the layered look right now, with a bit of vintage. This piece is actually 2 layered pieces from Le Chateau. I love mixing metals when it comes to accessories. Wearing both gold and silver allows you to match any of your bags or hardware on your shoes.

If you’ve read any of my accessory hauls, you’ll know that Le Chateau is my secret weapon to affordable and trendy accessory pieces. Thank me later! And in true Mel fashion, of course, there’s a metaphor behind these accessories. I was super drawn to the compass motif on them. It reminds me that we all have a guiding North Star. Whether you know it or not, you are exactly where you are supposed to be and following your heart (your North Star), will never fail you.

back to school style tips

Whether you’re going back to school, starting a new degree, starting a new job, or just looking for new ways to make getting ready in the morning easier, I hope these tips were helpful! Life’s too short to spend it worrying about what to wear. Throw on your uniform and get out there in the world… enjoy the day, savour every moment, and remember that you’ll never get this exact moment in time back. Love every bit of it!

mel inspired