If you can wear what you like, get colourful with your back to school combinations. For school, stand out from the crowd with original designs and striking colour combinations. If you're headed back to university, set the right tone with dresses, blouses, shirts and trousers. And don't forget to be prepared for every possible type of weather. Layer up with jumpers, duffel coats and parkas, but always be ready for the sun with T-shirts, vests and shorts.

Very popular with students of all ages this year are high-waisted jeans. Practical and versatile, a quality pair of high-waisted jeans can be worn with almost anything - and keeping them looking their best is very easy.

For girls and women, the skater skirt is going to be a huge part of school fashion this year. Comfortable and low-maintenance, skater skirts come in a wide range of colour combinations and designs - so choose a look that suits you. And don't be afraid to be bold... girls of all ages will be wearing informal cocktail and summer dresses to school this year.

A great pair of shoes is an essential part of any back to school ensemble. They should be comfortable, confident and trend-setting - a pair of white trainers or court shoes fit the bill perfectly. Girls can strike a more formal tone with a pair of colourful flats.

Your footwear should be fiercely individualistic, but it should also be practical. A pair of wedges strikes the perfect balance between comfort and eye-catching design.

As a simple rule of thumb, remember that the ‘90s are back. Bright colours and animal print will be a common sight in schools this year, so don't be afraid to express yourself. The colour orange will be particularly popular during the summer, as well as diagonal prints, bows and fringe skirts.

Don't forget to stock up on socks, but have fun with colour combinations and striking designs. Also, don't underestimate the role a backpack plays in your school ensemble. Floral and colourful are in, but black never goes out of fashion.

Getting ready for a new year at school takes thought and planning. While you may want to stay on-trend, being yourself is just as important. Whether you are buying skirts, trousers, shirts, blouses or a sturdy backpack for the school year ahead, make sure what you're wearing is comfortable and practical.