For shoes, a pair of cut-out ankle boots should be a staple in your back-to-school wardrobe. They are comfortable, easy to slip on, and extremely versatile. When the weather gets colder, you can even layer cute socks underneath for a dimensional look.

Summer Sundown

Products: Pullover, Shorts, Slip-ons, Watch, Lip balm

This second outfit is for the college student who values comfort above all else. 

For this look, I sought items that reflected the way Sargent strove to capture light and color at dusk. A cozy, dusty, grey-lilac sweater matches the lilac hue of the painting. To add the same vibrancy as the lanterns, I coordinated a pair of bright, floral shorts with the muted sweater.

While simple grey slip-ons allow the floral shorts to be the focal point of the outfit, they’re also the most comfortable shoe option. To accessorize, a watch is arguably the most vital accessory for every time-conscious college student. For makeup options, my favorite my-lips-but-better tinted lip balm is Pixi’s Shea Butter Balm in Natural Rose.

Transformation Impressionist

Products: Shirt, Waistcoat, Jeans, Bag, Flats

Sargent, an American artist, channeled the French impressionist movement to create Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose. Hazy flowers and sunlight-driven color provide a snapshot of late summer – Sargent continued painting this ending season even as the garden shifted into the fall. This last outfit reflects that French influence as well as the transition from summer to fall.  

As a new year of college begins, I find myself opting for more sophisticated pieces. This waistcoat from Forever 21 isn’t your typical olive green anorak, matching the green underbrush in the painting. Instead, layering the item over a thin boat-neck top gives your college wardrobe some class. 

Top the look off with interesting flats and a muted-colored bag for a Parisian-inspired ensemble perfect for fall.