Yolanda Okereke 
The bell has rung, and fashion class is officially in session. Once upon a time, the phrase “back-to-school” evoked stiff uniforms, sensible shoes, and a parade of plaid skirts. Today, it signals a stylish reset — a return to structure, polish, and playful preppy codes reimagined for modern wardrobes.
School look fashion is not just for students anymore; it’s a lifestyle statement. Think crisp white shirts tucked into pleated skirts, oversized blazers layered over graphic tees, knee-high socks with loafers, and ties knotted not out of duty but out of attitude. It’s a look that says smart, chic, and a little rebellious — equal parts Gossip Girl glamour and street-style cool.
THE ANATOMY OF THE SCHOOL LOOK
THE BLAZER
The backbone of academic chic. Tailored, oversized, or cropped — the blazer instantly adds structure. Pair with denim for a casual spin or with pleats for a head-to-toe collegiate effect.
THE PLEATED SKIRT
Flirty yet disciplined, the pleated skirt is the ultimate nod to school days. In tartan, solid navy, or leather, it swings easily from campus to cocktails.
THE BUTTON-DOWN
Nothing says “lesson ready” like a crisp shirt. Worn tucked in, half-tucked, or layered under sweaters, it anchors the look with sophistication.
THE LOAFER REVOLUTION
Loafers are no longer just sensible shoes for prefects. Chunky soles, patent finishes, and bold socks elevate them into statement pieces.
ACCESSORIES WITH A WINK
Ties worn loose, headbands with pearls, oversized satchels, or even varsity jackets. These finishing touches take the school look from literal to luxe.
WHY IT WORKS NOW
In a world obsessed with self-reinvention, the school look offers a return to structure without sacrificing playfulness. It bridges nostalgia with modern edge — giving adults permission to relive the thrill of first days and fresh notebooks, but in fashion’s language. The aesthetic is smart, polished, and photogenic, making it endlessly Instagram-ready.
STYLE NOTES by Yolanda
Pair a navy blazer with distressed jeans and loafers for effortless academic chic.
Elevate the pleated skirt with a leather jacket and boots to break away from “too cute.”
USE COLOUR POPS — a tie in bold red, socks in neon — to keep the look modern.
BALANCE PROPORTIONS: oversized sweaters with slim skirts, cropped blazers with wide-leg trousers.
FINAL BELL
The school look is not about going back; it’s about moving forward with wit, polish, and a dash of rebellion. Whether you’re walking into a classroom, a boardroom, or onto the runway, fashion’s new lesson plan is clear: School is in session, and style is the subject.
Yolanda Okereke is a visionary fashion entrepreneur and respected industry leader, known for her exceptional work as a Costume Designer and Creative Producer in Film and Television. With over a decade of experience, she has consistently shaped the visual identity of some of Nollywood’s most iconic productions, earning a reputation for her artistic depth, organisational precision, and bold storytelling through costume.