YouSpeak: Fashion Forward
A look at what’s trending and what students are wearing
Finally. After the endless winter that dumped record snow on Boston, it’s time to retire the wool coats and sweaters, the hats, gloves, and L.L. Bean boots, and pull out the cotton, linen, prints, and color.
What’s hot this spring? According to Google, tulle skirts, palazzo pants, midi skirts, jogger pants—even white jumpsuits (yikes). Overalls and ponchos are said to be returning as well.
What’s trending here at BU? For this special edition of “YouSpeak,” we invited a number of fashion-conscious students to stop by our photo studio and show us their favorites looks this spring and tell us where they shop and what they’d like to add to their wardrobe. Let us know what you’re wearing and where you’re shopping in the Comment section below.
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“This spring is all about having fun with prints, color, and textures. A big trend I’m noticing is mixing and matching different prints. Rompers are becoming very popular, along with skorts and open back tops.”
What I’m wearing:
“I love the neoprene fabric on this skirt. The cool, snakeskin print and skater skirt waist can be worn in many ways.”
My style:
“Since I spend a lot of time at the library, comfortable clothes are ideal. I have a lot of jogger pants and usually pair them with Nikes for a classic, comfortable look. I am really into dressing up an outfit with a big statement necklace or something that looks unique. I’ve recently purchased quite a few white leather staple items, such as bags and sandals. If I could describe my style in one word, it would have to be bold.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I would love to own a bright-colored scarf. It would really add some color to a neutral outfit.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“One trend I have spotted is wearing all white from top to bottom.”
What I’m wearing:
“I think spring is all about fun and vibrant outfits and that’s why I chose to wear this floral romper from Urban Outfitters. It’s comfortable and effortless, yet eye-catching. To top it off, I am wearing a hat from Forever 21 that gives it that extra touch. My Sperry black boots go well with anything. They are my go-to winter shoes, but who says I can’t wear them in the spring, right?”
My style:
“My closet is constantly evolving, depending on trends, inspirations, even my mood. I love fashion because it is so open-ended and experimental.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I want to invest in some sandals to match my spring outfits, and I’ve been eyeing some unique tops and maxi skirts for the warm weather.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“Desert, chukka, and Chelsea boots, anything and everything skinny or slim-fitting, joggers and chino shorts, and floral prints.”
What I’m wearing:
“My hat and pants are from Urban Outfitters, my blazer from Cotton On, and my glasses are thrifted. The shirt’s from H&M and the shoes are by Zara.”
My style:
“Modern with a hint of dapper. I try not to limit myself to just one style of dress. I can rock street wear, preppy clothing, or hipster clothing—you name it. I love meshing different styles together to make my own unique style.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“A summer suit.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“Maxi dresses and skirts have recently become a big hit around the area. They’re cute, stylish, with a hint of modesty.”
What I’m wearing:
“I bought my dress from a boutique called Charming Charlie in my hometown in Pakistan. I really enjoy articles of clothing that mix sober colors with colors that stand out. The blue and red prints here really bring out the sober color. The white scarf is from Pakistan, and I think it adds a bit of contrast to the dress. I’m a sucker for arm candy, so I wear a lot of Alex and Ani bracelets and my signature MK watch.”
My style:
“It depends on two things: my mood and the weather. I fluctuate from a preppy try-hard to a girly girl who likes to dress up to a jeans jacket and TOMS kind of girl. Being fashionable doesn’t mean owning 50 different articles of clothing—it’s being able to wear one article of clothing 50 different ways.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I’m on the hunt for pair of perfectly fitted white skinny jeans that have a bit of a rise at the bottom so I can cuff them and wear with a pair of cute sandals.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“I’ve spotted more people wearing Birkenstocks.”
What I’m wearing:
“My button-down is from J.Crew, my cardigan from Forever 21, the shoes are from Clarks, and my glasses from Warby Parker.”
My style:
“Really simple and clean-cut with a little bit of flare or pop. You’ll see me wearing a button-down at least five days a week.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I want to try out a pair of jogger chinos. I also would love another pair of Birkenstocks.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“Black slip-on shoes.”
What I’m wearing:
“I bought my flowery scarf and pants from American Eagle. The scarf adds a pop of color to my outfits. My shirt’s from H&M, the green utility jacket’s from Old Navy, and the flip-flops from Rainbow.”
My style:
“Simple and comfortable.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“Brown ankle boots or high-waisted shorts.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“One thing I’ve noticed is the push towards the casual suit. Men are now playing with the proportions and ideas surrounding a classic suit and pairing it with T-shirts and sneakers, like my white pair.”
What I’m wearing:
“I love this neon, lightweight, breathable sweater. I think knitwear is a perfect airy summer essential, especially for those cool summer nights. The bright highlighter instantly grabbed my attention for a pop of color.”
My style:
“My style is an arrangement of a sartorial core mixed with peacock tendencies. I love contemporary, modern plays on classic pieces. My style can easily change depending on what movie I am obsessing over or what song pumped me up in the morning.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“A lightweight linen khaki suit or a suit that has tailored shorts in place of pants. I guess I need to get my calves in shape.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“Bold and bright patterns.”
What I’m wearing:
“My shirt is from Forever 21 and I love it ’cause you can dress it up or down; my skirt is from H&M Spain and cost only 3 euros. My jacket is also from Forever 21 and I bought it on sale.”
My style:
“My style is bargain hunter.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I’d like to get a denim jacket and a maxi skirt.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“I’ve noticed a trend of pairing Sperry or other casual shoes with shorts and a long-sleeve button-down worn untucked.”
What I’m wearing:
“My favorite item is my black oxfords by Aldo. This brand has become my go-to for shoes because of the slim European designs that look good with any level of attire. I am very picky about the shoes I wear.”
My style:
“I try to dress well. Clothing is a direct expression of one’s self-image, and I believe that dressing at least at the business casual level is never a bad thing. I personally lean heavily towards European cuts for my suit and tuxedo options. One of my trombone professors at BU says it like this: ‘Look great, play great, feel great.’”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I’d really love to own a pair of Brown oxfords that have the slim European look I love. I’d like to have shoes that go along with the vibrant and heat-reflective colors one typically wears in the season.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“This season is moving toward cooler and softer colors within a subtle warm tone. There’s a trend of going back to a 1970s-inspired look: patchworks of vintage prints and a mix and match approach to volume and fabric. It’s a combination of modern energy and retro accents.”
What I’m wearing:
“I’m wearing a bell sleeve blouse, from H&M. I love the gorgeous floral trim adorning the bell sleeves, and the contrasting colors of blue, green, and white show infinite youth, vitality, and enthusiasm.”
My style:
“No specific style. I like wearing anything from a long jersey dress to high-rise artist flare jeans to a straight cape with bold color.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“There’s no specific thing I’m looking for.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“I’m seeing a move away from the granola-hipster trend that’s been going on for awhile. People are going for a more comfortable, athletic yet chic look. Sneakers are big, as well as light cottons and vibrant colors. Sunglasses and watches are a must.”
What I’m wearing:
“I bought my blue and tan New Balance 501s last month. They’re extremely comfortable yet trendy. Another perk is that they’re fairly affordable for a nice pair of sneakers, running between $50 and $70.”
My style:
“I would describe my style as suburban Dad–chic. I like to keep it casual and comfortable, yet trendy. I touched up my simple, solid-color outfit with a pair of John Lennon sunglasses and some fun rings.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I currently have my eye on those colored jogger pants that cinch at the ankle. Those are super-in right now.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“There have been a lot of fringe/bohemian trends this spring, especially the cute flower or braided headbands. A lot of girls have also been wearing crop tops and kimonos.”
What I’m wearing:
“My typical outfits are black-and-white paired with a pop of color, in this case my royal blue bag from Steve Madden. The light gray cardigan is actually thrifted from Goodwill (only $5). The simple black crop tank top is from American Eagle. I’m also wearing a golden necklace from Macy’s. I love that every single item is from a different store.”
My style:
“My style varies each day. I would say that I’m into having one bold piece of clothing that makes a statement, with the rest of the outfit more simple to balance it out. I also love using jewelry to put finishing touches to an outfit.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I would like the perfect pair of boyfriend jeans I could wear with a nice pair of heels or a pair of sneakers.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“A lot of people on campus have gotten into Nikes, or running shoes in general. Everyone’s been stuck inside all winter, so people are taking advantage of this beautiful weather by showing off their activewear.”
What I’m wearing:
“As the weather got warmer, I pulled my Nikes out and have been wearing them almost every day. They’re so comfortable and the black-and-white goes with any outfit. The crew neck shirt and socks are from American Apparel and I love the light blues because they remind me of spring. The green flannel, from a thrift store in Santa Monica, is one of my favorite things to wear. I fell in love with the denim shorts, from H&M, instantly.”
My style:
“Comfortable and influenced by ’90s fashion.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“I’m on the hunt for a nice pair of sunglasses at the moment.”
Fashion trends I’ve spotted this spring:
“After such a long winter, it’s refreshing to once again see an array of bright colors, a variety of skirts, and flowing spring dresses.”
What I’m wearing:
“I am in love with my new Guess tan booties. I bought them brand-new off the app Poshmark for $15. They are a great boot that goes with a lot of different outfits.”
My style:
“Chic, classy, cute, and colorful.”
Article of clothing I’d like to own this spring:
“A high-waisted, long, flowing skirt to pair with a bright cropped top.”
Jackie Ricciardi can be reached at jricc@bu.edu.
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