I'm a Style (and Movie) Enthusiast, and 'My Oxford Year' Inspired Me to Shop These Academia-Inspired Pieces for Fall

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Netflix/Belle & Bloom

In case you haven’t heard, the film adaptation of My Oxford Year  (based on the 2018 novel of the same name) hit Netflix this month and was quick to steal viewers' hearts. Starring Sofia Carson and Corey Mylchreest, the film follows a young American student who enrolls at Oxford University for a year and, naturally, falls head over heels for a handsome Brit...with a heartbreaking secret. The plot is packed with passion and emotional moments that would make any romance fan swoon, and while there is a lot to discuss in that department, what I'm actually here to talk about is the fashion. 

Anna De La Vega (Carson) steals the show in looks that lean into her prestigious university surroundings, and as we all know, there's nothing like some academia-influenced style to really get you in the mood for fall—even if you're not really heading back to school (and haven't actually been a student in a decade or two). 

So ahead, I've rounded up nine equal parts chic and studious pieces inspired by Anna's on-screen looks, all of which will have you well-equipped for an Oxford year of your own. 

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Not only will this ballet-inspired wrap cardigan keep you oh-so cozy and comfortable during the cooler months ahead, but it's also quite versatile, as you can dress it up for work or a holiday party, or pair it with flare leggings for a day of running errands. The mid-weight knit is made from a blend of polyester, nylon and acrylic, and I have no doubt that it's as soft as looks. Even better, you can adjust the fit as you please thanks to the tie-front closure, so you can leave it loose and layered or wear it more fitted on its own.

Elegantly tailored with a fit-and-flare silhouette, and featuring an eye-catching polka dot print (which seems to be a trend across Netflix titles lately), this flirty minidress is a little bit prim but not so proper. Or as one shopper describes it: "classy, elegant and fun." Reviewers also add that the polyester feels lightweight, so even with its long balloon sleeves and the potential for layering, it shouldn't leave you feeling overheated. 

Our girl Anna rocks a slew of smart, fitted skirts throughout the film, and this corduroy number seems like it came straight from her closet. It's made from structured cotton with a hint of elastane, and boasts a preppy button-front design that nails the academia vibe. Throw in the pockets and high-waist cut, which allows for the effortless tucking-in of tops and sweaters, and this mini gets As across the board. Plus, it's on sale for $79.

Behold, a beautiful overcoat you'll want to add to your rotation sooner rather than later. From the waist-cinching design to its bum-covering length, this is a great pickup for all those extra-crisp fall-to-winter days that lie ahead. Not to mention, the wool-blend fabric and double-breasted closure ensure maximum warmth and coverage, whether you're running from class to class across campus or simply strolling to your nearest Starbucks on your lunch break.

A simple, light top you can pair with jeans for a casual look, or a skirt if you want something more professional, this striped tee effectively adds a little je ne sais quoi to your outfit with its chic scoop-neck design. Crafted from soft Supima cotton and elastane, it sits slightly below the waist for a figure-enhancing fit, and is in fact supremely comfortable, according to shoppers. "Great fit, great color and looks like a million bucks," exclaims one buyer, who notes that it is "the perfect length to tuck into high-waisted pants." Sign me up!

No, you don't have to be attending your Oxford matriculation ceremony to channel some scholarly style in the form of this button-down. It's made from 97 percent cotton with a touch of elastane for some wiggle room, and the dainty black satin ribbon ties it all together (see what I did there?). Don it with slacks or a pencil skirt to keep it dressy, or tuck it into baggy jeans for more of a campus rebel vibe—whichever way you choose to style it, you'll feel like the smartest (dressed) person in the room.

Equal parts practical and stylish, this checkered skirt—featuring built-in shorts underneath—is definitely a piece worth adding to your cart this season. The vintage-looking pattern screams collegiate cool, and the high-waist fit is guaranteed to be flattering. Pair it with knee-high boots or chunky loafers (à la Taylor Swift in both cases) for an outfit that feels perfectly preppy and ready to hit the stacks.

There’s something so sophisticated about a funnel-neck sweater. Crafted from a blend of acrylic, polyester and spandex, this pastel purple one (that looks just like a style Anna wears on a library date) will have you swooning. Don't believe me? One shopper writes, "A great sweater for layering! I wore it every day on vacation in Washington when the days were both warm and cold!" And at this price? Major steal. Just don't put it in the dryer, though; some customers report it changes the texture.

A classic outfit calls for a classic shoe—one that has been in the game for decades, to be exact. These Adidas Sambas hit the mark with their sleek leather construction, sporty stripes and tan gum rubber outsole. They also fit true to size and are hailed for their comfort, so you'll be able to get your steps in pain-free. Anna also wore a nearly identical green and white striped Adidas pair in the movie, which means you'll nail the Oxford look brilliantly.


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