Campus Style That Stands Out

Sometime over the last few years, university-goers have developed a dress code. We’ve all seen it – leggings, plaid shirts, Ugg boots, and oversized scarves. While we love all of these things, we don’t love being identical to several hundred other people.

Paying attention to your campus style can easily fall to the bottom of your priority list, especially when you are overloaded by classes, exams, studying, working, and maintaining your social life. Being stylish on campus doesn't have to take a lot of effort - a few key pieces can spice up your wardrobe and make you stand out from the crowd (in a good way).

Here’s everything you need to know to stand out on campus.

Get a pair of jeans that fit like a dream.

Denim Skinny Jean, $46

When you spend all day in class, comfort is a necessity. This is why leggings are so comfortable. Like leggings, jeans that fit properly are super comfy, and go with everything. Jeans also tend to be more durable, and can be worn all year round. 

Jeans that have a high amount of stretch are comfortable enough to last all day without becoming a baggy sack by mid-afternoon. Dark denim is versatile enough to take you from class to post-exam drinks, whereas light washes are much more casual.

Opt for a mid-rise instead of something super low cut to prevent having to pull them up every ten minutes. A skinny or boot cut leg can be paired with flats, runners, or tucked into boots without extra fabric sticking out.

Try a different kind of boot.

As a Canadian, I understand the need for practical footwear in the winter. However, Ugg boots are not the only option. They do, however, make the perfect commuter shoe. If you want to keep your toes dry and warm during the winter, Uggs are a great option. Once you get to campus though, consider switching them out for a different shoe. 

Try a faux-leather boot lined with fleece. The lining makes them just as warm as Uggs, plus there are a ton more options for styles. For an added bonus, they’re water resistant. Boots that reach mid-calf will keep the snow out while looking fabulous. Knee-high versions will keep your legs toasty, but may be too warm for a whole day inside.

Before the snow flies, go for an ankle boot. This cute alternative to a mid-calf boot will keep your toes warm without extra bulk. These boots also pair perfectly with skinny jeans to give you a put-together style without looking like you spent an hour choosing an outfit.

Swap your top.

When everyone wears a version of the same shirt, we all start look like clones.

Faux Suede Cardigan, $41

Sure, plaid flannel is trendy right now - it's cute, casual, and appropriate for daytime.

Start your own trend with a long-sleeve blouse, tanks layered under a loose cardigan or a thin-knit sweater. Don’t worry – your favourite scarf will still go with all of these.

Cardigans that are open with a draped front are flattering for larger busts, and allow you to wear tanks or t-shirts underneath. A solid cardigan can be paired with patterned shirts and vice versa.

Have an idea for campus chic clothing? Share with us in the comments.

This Isn't Your Granny's Cardigan

Cardigans have a bad rep. They make us think of little old ladies, 50’s freshmen, and that stuck-up girl from Legally Blonde.

Fortunately, times have changed. Cardigans are no longer reserved for the super-academic with a high pony. Cardis can be cute, professional, and even stylish.

Here is everything you need to know to make a cardigan your go-to piece for fall.

Length

Make sure that whichever cardi you’re eyeing is the right length for your body. Something too long or too short will make your body look disproportionate.

For petite women, a cardigan should land at the hip. This keeps your top half in proportion with your legs.

If you’re taller, a longer cardigan does the same job. Look for something that reaches a couple inches below your backside.

To Do Up, or Not to Do Up?

The answer to this question depends on your body type.

For curvy women, I suggest a cardigan with an open front. This style provides a stream-lined look as the open front creates a panel that is very slimming.

For thinner women, try a cardigan that buttons up for a cozy yet professional style.

Whether you do up your cardigan or not, try adding a thin scarf or long necklace to dress it up.

Fabric

Cardigans now come in all sorts of textures. A light knit can be worn in early fall as a light jacket, and layered under heavier outerwear when the weather gets really cold.

Bulkier fabrics are best reserved for cardis that have a looser, more open structure.

 Any body type instantly looks larger with a thick fabric.

Pattern

There are so many options for patterns it’s almost impossible to choose. A solid colour will go with anything, so it’s a great idea to have one solid colour cardi in a neutral tone in your closet.

As a general rule of thumb, the busier the pattern is, the simpler the rest of your outfit should be.

For example, if the pattern has five different colours in it, choose one of those colours to wear under the cardi and add neutral-coloured bottoms such as jeans.

Have a favourite style of cardi? Let us know!