As Labor Day swiftly approaches, it’s time to start thinking about the inevitable. The end of lazy summer days and the start of classes. Before heading back to school, I would always make sure to plan my first few days of outfits. Especially for college students, whose schedules and professors are different each day of the week, it’s important to make a great first impression and look the part of an ambitious eager-to-learn student every day of syllabus week..

For unique style inspiration, I love heading to my favorite Goodwill stores and thrift shopping. It’s amazing to see how the sight of one unique piece of clothing can spark the idea of an entire outfit, which will be the source of compliments and conversation starters as you head back into the world of networking and making new friends. Plus, I love how each purchase you make at Goodwill goes directly to helping others in the community. Not only do you get some really great pieces for prices your wallet loves, but the amount you pay helps out others who need it as well.

The photos below have a few of my favorite back to school looks, that are easy to put together and can be worn all throughout the fall. I love cozy fall looks that incorporate creative layers and mix end of summer attire with fall statement pieces.

1. Colored Denim

It always amazes me to see how quickly on the first cool night people start breaking out  the denim jackets. It’s almost as if they spend the summer craving denim jacket season and when the first inkling of fall arrives the jackets can all come out of hibernation. Whether you’re a denim jacket aficionado or not, one look I’m loving this fall is colored denim. Bring a chic fall take on this staple piece, like the burnt orange colored jacket in the picture. It’s the perfect way to transition the summer dress into a fall look, while also keeping you warm at the same time. I also love the fall contrast the slouchy velvet shoulder bag brings to the look as well. Plus, it’s large enough to hold a laptop and notebook, which is perfect for toting everything to and from class.

1. Layered Dresses

The layered dress, overall and jumpsuit look is going to be big again this fall. It’s the essential collegiate look for back to school, because it’s comfy and takes just a few seconds to curate from your closet. Whether you choose to go with a classic black and white look like in the photo, or you choose layers with pops of color, it just takes two steps to look really put together with an outfit like this one – which I know will come in handy for those with early class or work schedules! If you want to dress to impress without the hassle of coordinating an entire outfit, this should be your go-to look this fall, paired with slide-on loafers or low-heeled mules.

Felicia Czochanski

Goodwill Contributor

Most teachers make their jobs look easy. In reality, helping hundreds of children and young adults grow both in their studies and as people is no easy feat. It takes up hours out of the day that go beyond the classroom. Creating lesson plans and grading tests can’t be done during class time, and neither can coming in before school starts or staying later to help students get a better grasp on the material.

As with any profession, when work starts to encroach on personal time, any time saving hacks can be a saving grace. When it comes to a signature wardrobe, that’s where teachers can save time and eliminate the stress of emptying out a full closet while claiming one has nothing to wear. Just imagine a morning where you reach into your closet and pull out just a few go-to wardrobe staples that essentially become the work uniform of your choosing.

Once you have a few items that make you feel comfortable, confident and ready to tackle the day, then you can worry about accessorizing – if time allows. Below I’m showing how you can turn a few neutral pieces into a week’s worth of outfits. And remember, you don’t need to break the bank on your back to school wardrobe. Go through the items already in your closet and be honest with yourself about what you reach for most often. Anything you haven’t worn in the last three months you might want to consider donating to your local Goodwill®. And while you’re there, take some time to browse through the racks. I’ve found many cardigans there that are perfect to brighten up any outfit!

1. Wardrobe Staples

You can never go wrong with a classic color combination. Black and white is a chic go-to that is incredibly easy to match, making outfit planning extra convenient. With a few pairs of comfortable yet stylish black pants you can create a great variety of looks. Check out the outfit in the look above. A simple pair of black pants and a white collared shirt can be pulled on in just a few minutes, while making an overall put together effect.

2. Pops Of Color

Want to add a bit of color to the basics? Consider investing in some bright colored cardigans. I love this pink cardigan (and have seen many others like it in a variety of colors at my favorite Goodwill store in New York City!). The 3/4 sleeves make it perfect to wear in any season – including in buildings that like to blast the air conditioner. I have the same cardigan in pink and blue and am on the lookout for one in an emerald green as well.

3. Embellished Details

To add some extra flair to your favorite pair of pants, think of adding some embellished details. It could be a fun DIY project and you can sew or take a strong glue gun to the beads and pearls to add them on. You also might be surprised at the fun finds you’ll come across at your local Goodwill. There’s always a designer surprise in the racks and all you have to do is find it.

Felicia Czochanski

Goodwill Contributor