School of Rock // My Favorite Back-to-School Trend

Yes, I'm writing a post on back-to-school fashion when it's admittedly been (more than) quite a while since August signified the start of a new school year for me.  I may not be spending this time of year getting my backpack organized with supplies or going over my class schedule anymore, but my excitement over back-to-school clothing still remains.  I think more than anything, it's the feeling that a new cycle is beginning in fashion, when laid back, carefree summer frocks are replaced with more conscientiously put together outfits.  And truthfully, the trends you see geared toward students tend to trickle over into the looks that those of us in the workforce (or just no longer in school) wear as well.  So in that sense, I say back-to-school fashion is for all of us.  (Can I get an amen?)

I've noticed several trends that seem to be prominent this year: oversized tees and sweatshirts with conversational prints, global inspired prints and mixed textures, athletic wear, colored and printed denim and leggings.  But the trend that I'm especially digging for the back-to-school season is an edgy, punk and rock-themed style paired with feminine fabrics.  Maybe it's because I was a teen in the '90s when this look first came to fruition, but I love it (and appreciate the updated version, which focuses on more fitted, tailored cuts than the originals that left us looking enveloped by our clothes).

As seen above, I put together a collage of some examples of this 'School of Rock' trend, all of which can all be found at Kohl's.  (See outfit details for each look below, then visit their website or your local Kohl's store to snag them up!).   I'm loving the combinations of plaids mixed with dark florals, lace paired with leather, and pretty, girly dresses worn with leather motorcycle boots.

Which look is your favorite?  Whether you're a student or your school days are a thing of the past, do you still get excited about back-to-school trends?

LOOK 1: Mudd® button-front lace-up back dress ($40), Mudd® open-front buffalo check cardigan ($36), Jennifer Lopez open-front cardigan ($64), Mudd® monti combat boots ($69.99), Mudd® oversized square plaid scarf ($26), SONOMA life + style® patched textured cadet hat ($24)
LOOK 2: SO® muscle tank top ($24), Mudd® chiffon tank top with ribbed trim ($30), LC Lauren Conrad tulle skirt ($54), Mudd® floral print beanie ($24), Candie’s® quilted bow crossbody bag ($40), SO® alpha boots ($69.99)  
LOOK 3: Rock & Republic soft plaid shirt ($48), Rock & Republic fleur-de-lis drape-back tank top ($40), Mudd® basic wash denim jacket ($60), Mudd® ponte pants ($40), Candie’s® barrier shoes ($54.99, Mudd® marled french terry roll-edge beanie
($24)  
LOOK 4: LC Lauren Conrad peter pan collar dress ($64), SO® cotton shirt ($36), Jennifer Lopez openwork hoodie ($54), SO® leopard print burnout jersey loop scarf ($26), Candie’s® barrier shoes ($54.99)   
LOOK 5: Rock & Republic horseshoe roll-cuff tee ($44), Rock & Republic studded top ($44), Rock & Republic moto vest ($80), SO® contour yoga leggings ($26), SO® flannel shirt ($36), Candie’s® barrier shoes ($54.99)   
LOOK 6: SO® flannel shirt ($36), Jennifer Lopez pleather shorts ($44), Keds® double high-top black shoes ($54.99)

This post was in collaboration with Kohl's.