back to cool

There are few kids cooler than Ferris Bueller. No school, no rules, no limits. Just a cool car, a couple of friends, and a dream for the perfect day off. Factor in Ferris's sweetie, Sloane, and you've got one ridiculously cool couple. I watched Ferris Bueller's Day Off wishing Ferris would bail me out of class and take me for a ride in the Ferrari. If you had the same teen dream, channel a little back to cool via Sloane Peterson. Mix funky fringe, like this Asos Fringe Waistcoat ($24, originally $47), with '80s classics like these Ray-Bans ($195), and just a touch of turquoise like this Lucky Brand Multi Row Cuff ($72) to finish. Definitely too cool for school. Click the items above to shop the look.

The first thing I remember about Drop Dead Gorgeous — aside from the amazing Minnesota dialect — is the all-star cast. Pageant contestants Denise Richards, Amy Adams, Kirsten Dunst, and Brittany Murphy all vie for the crown in little Mount Rose. But take away the big hair and pageant garb, and it's straight up small-town, all-American. So, when channeling the beauty queens, try cutie kicks, like Keds Classics ($40), glittery jewels, like this Statement Flower Necklace ($12), and sunny-sweet dresses, like C&C's Eyelet Cap Sleeve Mini Dress ($148). Just smile pretty and wave — and click the items above to shop the look.

No movie combines the black arts and the '80s better than Teen Witch. If only we all had witchy powers in high school and could top that! It's a fantasy like no other, that boasts infinite chuckles throughout. When about to break out in song, make sure you're wearing the quintessential casual cool jacket, like this J Brand 400 Jean Jacket ($143, originally $246), paired with a fresh pair of kicks, like these Adidas Julrunner Shoes ($55). For a sassy after dark look, this Alexander McQueen shoulder padded tweed blazer ($1,463) would be perfection over this Free People Pixie Party Tutu Dress ($83, originally $118). Shop all clickable items, fall under her spell . . .

If you're prone to bouts of whimsy, i.e. gazing out the window fantasizing about exotic, mystical lands with freaky creatures, let Labyrinth be your back to cool style guide. This dark fantasy starring Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie is a Jim Henson classic. It's not for the wee ones — it does have some squeamish parts — but it is recommended for a deeper journey into the imagination. For running through the walls, consider this dELiAs Bobbi Military Vest ($35), while these majestic Forever 21 Star Burst Dangle Earrings ($6) sparkle. You'll need some tough boots like these swamp-resistant Tory Burch Troy Elastic Ankle Boots ($425), but something lacy for the big ball; perhaps this Marc by Marc Jacobs "Bronte" Lace Top ($398). Click on the items above to shop.

If you're feeling back to cool, then I've got another dose of inspired ensembles. This time, I'm channeling the nostalgia of one of my favorite film classics, Dirty Dancing. Oh, who could forget Baby and her coming-of-age quest in the Summer of '63? Once she meets Johnny it's buh-bye family fun, hello sexy dance parties. But aside from sultry Summer love, it's also a study in easy, retro-fied chic. Steal Baby's signature style with this Seven For All Mankind Oversize Shirt ($155), or do like Baby's big sis, Lisa, and try preppy pearls and a pretty party dress like this ModCloth Periwinkle Prance Dress ($99). Just remember — "nobody puts Baby in a corner!" Shop the style by clicking on the items.

If the Troop Beverly Hills utilitarian vibe isn't your flavor, kick start your back to cool style with a sassy '70s Charlie's Angels inspired look. Protecting the world one criminal at a time, Jill, Sabrina, and Kelly fought the bad guys and kicked major ass in their endless supply of groovy 'fits. Take note from these fearless gals and strut through campus in a pair of high-waist flared jeans, platform sandals — like these MICHAEL Michael Kors Astor Platforms ($160) — and a glitzy top. Or, brown nose your way to the top of the class in a sexy jumper or forever fresh wrap dress. We especially love the vintage modern print on this Diane von Furstenberg Julian Wrap Dress ($325). Charlie would be proud. Shop the look by clicking on the items!

It's about that time again — classes are almost in session, so I'll pose a question: Is your wardrobe cool-ready? To start you off, I'm revisiting a fave. I could've watched Troop Beverly Hills on repeat just to see Shelley Long outfit her troops and kick some ass. I love an underdog. But more importantly, I love that Shelley's wilderness crew never compromises the chic — utilitarian khaki, sweet little scarves, pumps, not to mention tailored silhouettes. Take a cue from the Beverly Hills princesses cum wilderness trailblazers and get campy in neutral-hued separates, like J Brand's Houlihan Cargos ($231), olive accents via Elizabeth and James Explorer Blouse ($244), and just a hint of luxury in details like this Michael Kors Mother of Pearl Watch ($250). Shop the look by clicking on the items above.