STYLE

This school year, I'm studying abroad in England (!!!), and I just visited London for the first time. The fashion I saw was fascinating—for the most part, people were more dressed up than I'm used to, and I def saw some style trends repeated again and again.

Based on the notes I took that week, here are some ways to make your everyday fits look like you just stepped off the London streets...

Breton tops

@livelovesarablog

More than anything, I kept seeing people wearing this classic boatneck striped top. Audrey Hepburn-esque boatneck Breton tops are so chic and a bit retro, whether you choose the traditional white-with-black-stripes color scheme (which I saw most often) or something more modern like blue stripes on blue. You can buy these shirts from places like Seasalt Cornwall ($30) or Amazon ($23) and look very London, with the French flair of Audrey in Funny Face or Coco Chanel!

Colorful blazers

@fashionfun40s

Adding a blazer to your fit instantly makes you look big-city sophisticated. I saw a lot of blazers in London—some traditional blue or black, but also many bright ones that added an adorable pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. Check Asos for some fab options, like this pretty green blazer ($29).

Black turtlenecks

@hannahrobinsonnnn

The cutest fall classic anywhere, chic black turtlenecks were well-represented in London. Turtlenecks are so simple that they go with everything while giving every dark academia and chilling-in-a-cafe-on-a-rainy-fall-day vibe we could wish for! Try this turtleneck from Uniqlo ($30) if you don't already have one in your closet, and pair with jeans, a pretty necklace and a jacket.

Patterned dresses

@londoner.streetstyle

When I was in London in late September, it was still warm enough for dresses with tights. But dresses are easy to wear over long-sleeved shirts and leggings when it's chillier, and cute patterned dresses are a very Londony way to add a bit of color to a fall fit. I saw a lot of flower patterns, like this pretty American Eagle dress ($40), and flowy fabric, but a patterned sweater dress would also be a sweet twist for the colder weather.

Scarves, scarves and more scarves

@withameliataylor

A sweet scarf or mini ascot goes well with just about any fit (and is another accessory that looks chic *and* keeps you warm!). In London, I saw people wearing thin silk scarves and thicker knitted ones over all kinds of outfits. A chunky scarf like this colorful striped one from American Eagle ($24) is very London-chic while giving lovely, cozy fall/winter vibes.

School uniform vibes

@femalefashionfits

Many students in London *do* wear uniforms for school, not just for the vibes. But that doesn't mean that we non-school-uniform girlies can't take inspo from the traditional look! A cute plaid skirt (like this one from Amazon, $20) is a preppy essential and so perfect for fall. Try pairing it with a white collared shirt and striped knee socks for a London fit that can double as your Britney Spears Halloween costume!

Tag us in your OOTD pics at @girlslifemag!

Looking for more fall fashion inspo? We've got you covered:
🍂 The only fall monochrome fashion inspo you'll ever need
👗 Here's how to dress like Laufey
📚 Your official studious girl autumn lookbook

Slider image: @londoner.streetstyle
Top image: @banuuuly

by Ava Slocum | 11/20/2023