January 30, 2018
Olivia Langley
Florals? For Spring? Groundbreaking.
Even though snow is on the horizon, students are still gearing up for flowery fashions for the spring.
Industry trends for spring 2018 include sequins, pastels, checkered patterns, ruffles and bold colors, according to Harper’s Bazaar.
Some students were in line with what the projected trends for the season will be; however, others offered a different perspective on fashion. Freshman communication major Vivien Faith Otero looks forward to color.
“I definitely think that more colorful outfits will come into trend. Also loose, flowy and sheer tops or dresses are going to be popular,” she says.
Freshman psychology major Kilie Godec’s predictions differed from Otero’s.
“I think vintage is coming back 100 percent with lots of cutouts and laces,” he says.
This prediction of “vintage” clothing making a comeback is not a singular idea, either. In fact, it seems that 2018 spring fashion will not only consist of the usual flower tops and skirts, but also ‘90s vibes.
Last year, students may have adopted the acid wash denim and neutral tones of the ‘90s. Some trends are “so relatable and nostalgic that you can pick it up from where you left. The ‘90s fashion trends are slowly making a comeback,” according to a Jan. 23 Stylecraze article.
The ‘90s aren’t the only decade that students draw inspiration from. Freshman inclusive elementary education major Ashlie Steel takes her inspiration from a unique decade: the ‘80s.
“I grab a lot of straight leg super high rise jeans, and pair them with what I call ‘grandpa sweaters,’ as well as blazers. (It’s a) kind of Ferris Bueller aesthetic (with) a more ‘80s color scheme… like mustard and pinks [paired] with wild patterns,” she says.
Fashion in 2018 is also expected to reflect the recent displays of self-positivity as well as challenge gender-specific designs. News outlets such as Vogue and The New York Times have published articles spotlighting fashion artists such as Moon Choi, Calvin Klein and others who create genderless or non-conforming pieces.
Steel has noticed a shift in androgynous fashion for women, including baggy clothing and athletic pants.
“I think the changes in the last years, like the first male Cover Girl and male fashion in general, were awesome. (Men) are becoming more accepting to self expression and it’s a beautiful thing. And the same goes for women,” says Steel.
“We’re shutting down the need for women to dress ‘like a lady’ and more and more you’re seeing suits on red carpets instead of thousand dollar gowns. Pixie haircuts are blowing up in popularity. Every person is finding their twang and I’ve never been more ecstatic about it.”
Where to shop for spring fashion is also a major factor in the styles and trends. From in-store to online shopping, Otero explains that UCCS students have a large amount of shops and retailers to choose from.
“I definitely think places like Plato’s closet or thrift stores like that are nice because they resell brand names and usually it’s in really good condition. It’s nice for students who want to dress cute but don’t want to pay full price for items,” she said.
Steel is also an advocate for thrift stores, finding great deals.
“I do not remember the last time I actually shopped at a full-priced retailer like a mall,” says Steel.
“I’ve found Calvin Klein, Gucci, and recently bought a sweater from Valentino that’s most likely from the ‘00s,” she said.