The dreaded return to university life and Summer Friday-free workweeks is nearly upon us. Back in our youth, we’d see this as an opportunity to rebel against “The Man” — detract from our stiff school uniforms as much as possible. We’d roll up our pleated skirts, turn our starchy button-downs into origami masterpieces and incoherently doodle all over our JanSports.
If celebrities like Alexa Chung and Kendall Jenner — along with the overwhelming popularity of Alessandro Michele’s geek-chic Gucci showings — have taught us anything, however, it’s that tartan and tweed-filled adult uniforms are in. To top it off, BBC’s beloved Sherlock has swept viewers away and Benedict Cumberbatch (not to mention his Vivienne Westwood-infused ensembles) now holds claim to the hearts of thousands. Suffice it to say that, these days, the idea of pussy-bow dresses and Anglomania-inspired suiting doesn’t seem so restrictive.
As with any trend, this recent upsurge of Victorian and library nerd-inspired fashion is what you make of it. Like Emily Ratajkowski, you can merely borrow the sleuth’s reading specs. Or you can go all out in a coordinating tweed ensemble that would put Watson to shame — the choice is yours. Click through the slideshow below to learn how we’ll be channeling the master of mysteries and, of course, shop our favorite takes on the trend.
Geek Chic
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Red-Herring Readers
Oversized, non-prescription specs are all the rage — just ask Kendall Jenner or Emily Ratajkowski. They highlight one's gaze while also giving the wearer a false sense of separation from the observed world. Think of them as wearable magnifying glasses.
Warby Parker Percel Eyeglasses, $95 at Warby Parker
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Red-Herring Readers
Urban Outfitters Kendall Round Readers, $14 at Urban Outfitters
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Elementary Suiting
The adult uniform is making a comeback. Cheeky plaid or tweed suiting worthy of everyone's favorite detective (besides Detective Elliot Stabler) is the mark of a true fashion nerd. For the full effect, pair with a Victorian-style blouse.
Zara Printed Accordion-Pleat Mid-Length Skirt, $69.90 at Zara
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Elementary Suiting
Isabel Marant Tweed Inko Skirt, $430 at Barneys
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Great Timing
Sherlock Holmes was eccentric but attractive, brilliant but isolated. He, much like your college professors, would not have approved of this generation's unhealthy attachment to the intangible world. That said, a true detective always arrives right in the nick of time. Practice unplugging without sacrificing punctuality — stay retro yet of the moment with a slick timepiece.
The Horse Brushed Gold/Navy Band Watch, $119 at Need Supply Co.
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Great Timing
INSTRMNT Series 01-C BS/B Watch, $304 at Assembly New York
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No Deerstalker Hat Required
In transitional outwear, you're ready for any weather conditions. That's why Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock wore capes and Benedict Cumberbatch's waltzes around in a trenchcoat. Supersizing the styles just makes things cozier.
Tibi Wool-Blend Felt Cape, $995 at Net-a-Porter
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No Deerstalker Hat Required
A/OK Oversized Trench Coat, $84 at Oak
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No Deerstalker Hat Required
Granville Cape, $620 at A.P.C.
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Geek-Chic Trousers
Yes, these suspender pants will hold up in fashion court. We present for the jury's consideration Rihanna's paper bag-waisted recording outfit.
Tibi Tropical Wool Suspender Pants, $495 at Tibi
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Geek-Chic Trousers
Those who can't suspend sartorial disbelief may prefer these equally unconventional tartan trousers.
Jacquemus Le Pantalon Torchon, $455 at La Garçonne
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Bookish Babe
Alessandro Michele's favorite silhouette is the perfect post-Labor Day look. A conservative, fashion-forward topper calls for a tweed plaid blazer, a contrasting miniskirt (or midi skirt) and statement loafers, natch.
Nasty Gal Bow Down Pussybow Blouse, $68 at Nasty Gal
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Bookish Babe
Marc Jacobs Pussy-Bow Silk Crepe de Chine Shirt, $395 at Net-a-Porter
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Loafing Around
Contrast understated, utilitarian footwear against an embellished sock for a charming, well-heeled balance. Leave the argyle for those who go by Holmes or Horowitz, we've got a different sort of accent in mind.
Adrianna Papell Kane Real Calf Hair Smoking Loafers, $59.99 at Century 21
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Loafing Around
M4D3 Ocean Loafer, $130 at Urban Outfitters
