Back-To-School Trojan Fashion
by Ela Rybak ‘25
The focus on streetwear began just thirty years ago in New York City and Los Angeles. Given USC’s prime location just blocks from downtown LA, it may seem obvious that the campus is full of people sporting unique styles or staying right on trend. With summer wrapping up and fall right around the corner, seasonal fashion pieces are starting to switch up. Here are some of the most popular fashion trends on the USC campus right now.
Bags
Every Trojan has a bag, whether it’s a tote or backpack, to carry their essentials. However, The North Face backpack is definitely the most popular. Trojans praise this bag for its size and multiple pockets to keep every item safe and organized. I, too, love this bag and own one because it is the perfect size for a weekend getaway as well as class.
It’s no secret, though, that there has been an increase in tote bags on campus too. Trader Joe’s and New Yorker canvas totes are two popular choices that also work perfectly as beach bags.
Branching beyond canvas totes, Longchamp Le Pilage and Goyard totes are pricier options but are also very popular for their timeless elegance. My friends are pushing me to get a Lomgchamp Le Pilage bag, and I’m very close to doing so because it’s one of the easiest fashionable totes to clean. All you have to do is throw it in an empty washing machine!
Sneakers
I’d like to think that your shoe style says a lot about you. Shoes are crucial to completing any outfit. High Top Converse and Nike Blazers are still ubiquitous for their comfort and how easy they are to match with any outfits, which is why I don’t think these two shoes will ever go out of style! However, Adidas Sambas are on the rise after a summer filled with models like Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber supporting them. Although I love these shoes for their timeless leather and suede details, I’m curious to how long they will stay in style since shoes like Adidas Superstars were extremely popular in 2016 but have since seen a massive decline in sales since.
Sustainability is also making a mark on campus, with the French brand Veja becoming popular. Veja has recently been featured in Vogue Business for their eco-conscious practices by using lower impact materials like cotton, which limits the overuse of water and certain chemicals.
Whether people on campus are talking about them or wearing them, Air Jordan 1’s still take the crown for the highest overall popularity. Many sneakerheads on campus have explained to me how Air Jordan’s are unique in that they hold their value and have stayed relevant due to the brand’s legacy and exclusivity.
Clothing
Some of the most popular outfit combinations on campus at the moment are matching linen sets, crop/tube tops with cargo pants, and boyfriend jean shorts. From vacation vibes to keeping up the Y2K trend of the last year, both are perfect for a hot day! My favorite place to buy cargo pants would have to be Zara because they always know how to make affordable and good quality clothing.
Ela’s Friend’s Crochet Work
Crochet as halter tops, mini sweaters, or crop tops is another trend that’s sticking around from last year. An expertly crafted crochet design goes with just about anything, and it even pairs nicely with a linen set. This can even become a hobby! One of my close friends at USC crochets tops and other accessories for herself and her friends. There is nothing like wearing a specially designed piece of clothing from a talented, fellow Trojan!
Baby tees and midi skirts are also two staples for these hot LA days. Baby tees go with anything regardless of if you pair them with shorts, pants, or a skirt. On the other hand, cotton and denim midi skirts are trendy and can be worn as an everyday piece or to a more dressy event. These pieces can be found just about anywhere, but some of the best baby tees and midi skirts are at nearby thrift stores like Crossroads Trading on Melrose Avenue.
A lot of men’s streetwear relies on earthy tones. Since it is hotter outside, many are opting out of wearing the popular khaki and cargo pants and replacing them with running shorts from Nike, Adidas, or Lululemon or a more laid back sweat-short. Graphic t-shirts from brands like Revolve and PacSun are as common as ever, but thrifted band tees, as well as sports and college tees, are the most popular. I’m a big proponent of graphic tees because they often represent various hobbies and artistic passions.
Lastly, to beat the heat, trucker or baseball hats are everywhere. Many of the baseball hats happen to be in support of the LA Dodgers or San Diego Padres. What else do you expect living in Southern California?
USC Merch Always has a Strong Presence on Campus
Streetwear is constantly evolving, and Trojans are always staying on top of the trends. Although Trojans follow the biggest trends, everyone puts their own twist on the current fashion with different accessories and pieces, ultimately making their outfits unique and authentic.The big question is what will be in store for the fall fashion trends as the weather starts to cool down.
Will Mini and Tazz Uggs reign for another year? Are men going to be sporting their classic flannel over hoodie looks once again? We will see, but until then, fight on and keep wearing what makes you feel the best!
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