It’s the beginning of September and it’s almost time to bid farewell (regrettably) to breezy dresses and bare legs and say hello to plaids, knits, and knee-high boots. For back to school, we’re talking stylish layers, a darker colour palette, and a killer bag. Here are the essentials you need right now:

Stylish tote

Chuck the backpack and invest in a strong tote for your textbooks. Choose a patterned tote to give your outfit a splash of excitement even when you’re wearing basic colours. You can also substitute it with a glam satchel to give you that collegiate feel.

Knee highs

The beginning of September brings that awkward in-between weather; it’s not exactly the time to bring out those jeggings or your itty-bitty shorts. Invest in knee-length or over-the-knee socks, pair them with a light- weight high-waisted skirt and loafers, and voila: a perfect transition piece!

Plaids

Fall’s eternal love affair with plaid is still going strong. As a twist to the traditional wear, try tying a flannel blouse around your waist, and pair it with an all-black outfit, a beanie, and military boots. If you want to go for a more polished look, invest in a plaid mini.

Varsity chic

The varsity jacket is back for fall and it couldn’t be more fitting as school starts. The beauty of this jacket is that it’s light and perfect for that in-between weather. It’s versatile and can be worn over virtually any outfit, but stay away from patterns!

Boyfriend jeans

These babies have been all the rage this season. They’re comfortable, stylish, and casual chic, which makes this a favourite for those lazy days where you’re contemplating sweatpants (gasp!). They usually hit right at the ankle, so it’s a great transition piece you can wear well into the fall. Pair them with a chic ankle boot, silky blouse, and dangly jewelry—date night, anyone?