Universities have never been immune to fashion trends. And today is no exception. College campuses are becoming virtual fashion shows. Students roam campus wearing the latest fashions, from Ugg boots and hoodies (relatively campus-friendly) to stiletto boots and skinny jeans (not-so-college-friendly). Trends toward high fashion on campus are surprising, as college students are often poor; struggling to make an income, trying to pay rent for the first time, and bearing the looming cost of tuition and books. However, they somehow tend to keep up!
The practicality of student fashion varies according to trends. One would think that with all the walking a student has to do around a college campus going from one class to another, students would dress in comfortable, loose clothing. It is not the case. You have some women who are transforming college campuses by donning heels and enough accessories to make music as they walk by. Heeled boots, sandals, and heels are seen throughout the year despite the harsh weather conditions on some college campuses.
Depending on the location and type of school, students may dress more casual, urban, sophisticated, or different from the community surrounding the university. General fashion wardrobes differ as much from campus to campus as they do from city to city. Schools seem to have different rules when it comes to fashion. Students may be used to simply leaving the house in jeans and a t-shirt, while other students tend to dress more elegantly just for class.
Of course, a large portion of the student body could probably spend several hours in the library in sweatpants, sweatshirts, oversized sweaters, or any other cozy outfit. Those students, however, often find trends of their own in casual wear as well. Many popular American designers, such as American Eagle, Juicy Couture and Hollister, are branding their own tracksuits in an effort to create wearable fashions for college students as well. With the democratization of fashion and the increasing accessibility of shopping, students can follow trends whenever they want.
Dressing more stylishly and fashionably brings something fun and exciting to the college environment. It adds an aesthetic aspect that makes the campus nice. Gone are the days of uniforms, conservative clothing, or more formal wear for structured college classes. Some may argue that classes could be more professional and enjoyable if the attractiveness of the students fits the school setting. For those who believe this way, I suppose fashion will become more of a statement of the burgeoning independence of the young college student. Say hello to the trendy campus; is here to stay
