What to wear? It’s academic

largely influenced (as they often are) by what is happening in the music scene. While guys may not want to walk around looking like Justin Bieber, because shirts aren’t optional after all, there are a few elements of the pop star’s style that will be easy to spot in classmates’ wardrobes come fall.

“We are seeing styles that are very reminiscent of the grunge era with a lot of plaids, distressed denim and rock inspired T-shirts,” Scarlett says. “Drop-crotch pant styles are also very big and seen in both classic cottons as well as dressier wool/woven styles.”

Basically, think dressed-down styles in dressed up textiles.

Denim is always a go-to for any fall wardrobe, and this year is no exception. But this is the one area where students may want to play it safe on what’s trending. While distressed — and even sometimes destroyed — denim is a big hit on social media, stick to deconstructed elements that don’t show too much skin but still hit all right fashion highs such as torn, slightly shaggy hemlines and small (think loonie size or smaller) rips.

As for on-trend denim cuts, it’s still pretty much all about the skinny. “The classic skinny jean style is still a great look, but now the high-waist version is really on trend,” Scarlett says of the popular style for girls.

Another en-vogue cut, which is a nod to the classic Levi’s 501 straight-leg cut, is the “girlfriend” jean, which is a relaxed style that is more fitted in the waist and has a slightly lived-in look.

“Almost as if you borrowed the jeans from your BFF,” Scarlett explains.

Take denim to the next level — or even update your favourite pair from last year by working a little DIY magic on them. From easy, iron-on patches to frayed hems, customizing your favourite baby blues with embellishments is a simple and affordable way to up your denim game this fall.

“The DIY trend is so big right now (and) we love the idea of letting your personality shine through,” Scarlett says. “Patches, fabric markers, studs and beads — the best part of DIY is that you can really be creative and personal with your pieces.”

In addition to playing around with DIY elements, girls should consider picking up one of the hottest accessories of the summer that is also making its way into fall: chokers.

“We are seeing a lot of choker styles,” Scarlett says. “We especially like the layered bohemian necklace look combining different metals (such as) silver and gold, as well as different necklace styles into one look.”