This past semester, I was lucky enough to spend four months studying in London and holidaying around Europe on the weekends. I experienced different cultures, poorly imitated many accents, and stole style inspiration straight from the streets.
Some clothes and accessories I saw and wanted immediately, while others took a gradual love affair. Here are ten trends studying abroad introduced to me.
1. Tights – Patterned, colored, sheer, glittery. Basically, anything you can imagine. They’re typically paired with black or denim skirts.
2. Business trousers – This is another trend I quickly picked up on. Who knew business pants could be worn to the club with a crop top and heels? Pro tip: “pants” means “underwear” in England…
3. Skinny jeans – Skinny, skinny, skinny all the way! I see a lot of dark wash and black denim jeans with rips in the knees. Sorry, boot cuts, but you’re out of style.
4. “Trainers” – A.K.A. sneakers. Londoners wear trainers with everything from skirts to sweatpants. White seems to be the most popular color, too.
5. Jumpers – This is essentially a sweatshirt. Unlike Americans who wear sweatshirts for team or school pride, the Brits usually wear trendy, brand name jumpers. A lot of Adidas and Nike.
6. Big scarves – it gets cold and rainy around here, so having a nice scarf to snuggle up to is a necessity. They’re also nice for us international students who spend hours on buses and need something to bunch up into a pillow…
7. Structured bags – I only saw my fellow Americans with backpacks or slouched purses. The British girls love to carry structured bags that have professional vibes. I still find them extremely versatile and perfect for errands or a job interview.
8. Conductor hats – I originally noticed an influx of Instagram posts from fashion influencers featuring the classic, black conductor style hat; however, so many Londoners sport them. Here’s a pink version that another Hawk got from a TopShop in central London.
9. Fur collared jackets – Jean and leather jackets are imperative parts of every fashionista’s wardrobe. In London, jackets with fur-lined collars are making waves.
10. Chelsea boots – You’ve probably seen this style without knowing what it’s called. These are boots – typically rubber or leather – and they have a U-shape of stretchy elastic on the sides.
On my way to England, I literally pulled my body weight – divvied up into two suitcases – around the airport. As if I didn’t over-pack on my way there, imagine trying to wedge polka dot tights and plaid business trousers into my already overflowing suitcase.
HCXO,
Corinne