It’s back to school time and what better excuse to update your wardrobe. Lisa Haynes does her homework on uniform-inspired fashion for grown-ups

SCHOOL is definitely not ‘out’ but well and truly ‘in’ for this season. Kids may drag their feet, but mums should be running to the school gates in grey-pleat skirts, blazers and brogues.

The latest preppy trend also gets a gold star for ticking lots of boxes, as we head into a new fashion term.

The shirts and boyish shoes take care of autumn/winter’s mannish look, skirts and woolly cardigans hit the spot for the heritage trend and satchels and block heels give a nod to Seventies fever.

The one subtle difference is that – combined together – there’s a youthful spin. All the better for anti-ageing your wardrobe and giving the kids a run (or hopscotch jump) for their pocket money.

Preppy is one look that’s sure to leave you looking top of the class.

STYLE SWOT

No matter if you detested your actual school uniform back in the day, now’s your chance to re-write the rules. There’ll be no detentions for experimenting with this quirky look.

Pick out one traditional school-inspired piece, like a grey circle skirt, and transform it from drab to fab with clashing bright block colours in the form of a blazer, pullover or tights. Stick to ankle socks for a prim-and-proper take.

This is a laid-back approach to uniform dressing. And to go down the tomboy route, add a statement accessory with on-trend brogue flats or Harry Potter-style thick frame glasses.

PREFECT PERFECTION

If you love being immaculately turned out, present your inner prefect with preened and polished perfection.