As we move into fall, the topic of back-to-school outfits has definitely been a point of interest. Whether it be students or faculty, I can’t help but wonder: What are people wearing on campus? What are some popular fall trends? How are students transitioning from summer to fall? 

As fashion icon Carrie Bradshaw once said, “Life is too short to wear boring clothes,” and Boston College students have definitely lived up to that standard. 

Summer 2024 was a defining summer for fashion, and I think it’s safe to say that some trends are officially here to stay as we make our way into fall. I’ve noticed the way summer trends have influenced everyday college looks, including athleisure from Challengers or bright colors from Charli XCX’s brat. 

So far, it’s been a Stockholm-style fall. Blending elements of minimalism, functionality, and sophistication, this style emphasizes comfort and aesthetics. 

Stockholm fashion promotes versatility, and that’s exactly what we need as college students: pieces that can be worn in different settings and adapted for both casual and semi-formal occasions. This can be seen in light-wash jeans, white shoes, and more that students have been wearing.

To start, Stockholm fashion has brought back a mélange of cute outfits: it’s a ’90s influence! 

The ’90s have definitely made a comeback during the past few years and we can see aspects of that in the “clean girl” aesthetic: a slick back bun, boyfriend jeans, and cool sneakers or black sandals. It’s all very reminiscent of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. 

Browns, blacks, and grays have also been popular over the past few years. Whether it’s a basic tee from Brandy, an Aritzia sculpt top, or pants from Hollister, a good basic is perfect for an outfit base. Gap also sells basics for a friendly price to college students. 

Even though the mood of summer is still here, fall fashion staples such as long sleeves, sweatshirts, and more have already crept into fashion life at BC. Although the sun’s still out, the Boston wind has come back and we can definitely see that as we shift from building to building around campus. 

Off-the-shoulder sweaters and cardigans make you feel like you’re straight out of a Coppola film while ensuring that you’re nice and warm in the chillier classroom air. Popular colors so far are grays, browns, and blacks, many of which can be found on Frankies Bikinis or Peppermayo. 

Although these timeless outfits have been revived lately, BC students haven’t been shy with adding colorful elements. Red as a statement piece is always the way to go: a red hair clip, red shoes, or even jewelry with red aspects shows that the shade is the color of the season. 

Wear your outfit, don’t let it wear you! 

Accessories

Sunglasses: The weather’s getting colder, but the sun is still out and BC students are taking advantage. Whether it’s to lay out on the grass or strut to class, sunglasses have been a popular accessory around campus. It’s a chic way to uplift an outfit while keeping it casual enough to go to class. Oval sunnies have been especially popular, and are my personal favorite. Tortoise shell print and browns make them perfect for any occasion—again, the ’90s influence!

Belts: Usually used more for practical reasons, a belt makes an outfit look just a tidbit more put together. Running late for your 9 a.m.? A belt is a great way to accessorize while you’re running out the door and has been a popular choice for students these past few weeks. Ralph Lauren, Princess Polly, Mango, and Zara all sell great quality belts that range across styles, curated to your personal taste.

Bags: It seems like BC students made a collective decision over the summer to make the switch from backpack to shoulder bags. Whether a hobo bag or tote bag with pins, shoulder bags can be used on and off campus. Longchamp bags have been the most common option, and these bags do more than carry books. As a statement piece, they add life to any outfit. 

Footwear 

Boots: Whether cowboy or gogo boots, the Stokes runway has seen a lot of them these past few weeks. My personal favorite are the Western style boots from Princess Polly, which are comfortable enough for me to wear all day. Cowboy boots are also fun and easy to put on. Don’t shy away from these statement styles of footwear.

Sneakers: Given their name, no wonder the Adidas campus sneaker has been a trendy shoe these past few weeks. On the rise, they might be getting more popular than sambas. For casual athleisure, Onitsuka Tigers—specifically the Mexico 66 style—Hokas, and Nikes remain on trend. If you’re running from class to the Plex, it’s easy to put these shoes to use. 

Ballet flats: These shoes are perfect if you want to make the switch from day to night but don’t have time to do a whole wardrobe change in between classes. I sometimes wear these shoes when I’m in a rush and leaving the dorm, and still receive compliments on them all day. A simple black ballet flat can be found on Depop, Urban Outfitters, or your local boutique. They’re a versatile shoe that can be worn out on Newbury Street, or sitting in the Chocolate Bar.