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The countdown to the Fall 2026 semester doesn’t officially begin until you start convincing yourself that buying “just one more sweater” is absolutely necessary. Back-to-school season is basically a student’s unofficial New Year’s Day, complete with fresh starts, outfit moodboards, and a sudden urge to reinvent your personal style. Whether you’re returning to campus, starting your freshman year, or just determined to add some more main character energy to your life, there’s no better excuse to refresh your closet. And let’s be real: Showing up to your class in an outfit you feel good about makes even the 8 a.m. classes feel slightly less painful.
If you’re wondering which college fashion trends are set to dominate campus this fall, you’re not alone. Every new semester brings a fresh wave of aesthetics and viral pieces, but not every TikTok trend you see actually makes it beyond your FYP.
To separate the fleeting fads from the styles you’ll actually see on campus, Her Campus had over 350 Gen Zers share their predictions for what trends they think we’ll be bringing into this school year. The verdict? Fall 2026 is all about polished simplicity with personality. Matching sets and designer totes were among the clear campus favorites, while babydoll silhouettes, sheer fabrics, and retro touches like leopard print and vintage-inspired accessories add a more expressive twist.
So whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or simply searching for a few new pieces to add to your weekly rotation, these are the college fashion trends worth keeping on your radar this semester.
Babydoll Silhouettes: Edikted Christena Ruffle Mini Dress ($27)
A whopping 79% of respondents reported that babydoll tops and dresses would be trending this school year, a statistic that particularly thrilled me. I suppose we all have Olivia Rodrigo to thank for this one. This babydoll dress from Edikted has been in my cart for quite some time, so maybe I’ll take this as my sign to finally commit.
Effortless Chic: Princess Polly Channel Waistband Capri Pants ($50)
When asked to summarize their desired fashion/beauty aesthetic in a few words, a common response to the survey was “effortless chic.” Think off-duty-model vibes and outfits that look intentional without feeling too over-the-top. I can’t think of anything more off-duty-model-coded than capri pants. To achieve that vibe, I suggest dressing them up with a pair of strappy kitten heels and a halter top.
Hair Clips: Emi Jay Custom Big Effing Clip ($88)
Of all the accent accessories listed among respondents, statement hair clips were the only one that came with a specific brand: Emi Jay. There’s a reason these clips can be spotted on just about every FYP out there. They’re oh-so-cute, hold your hair well regardless of your hair type, and some of them (like the above) can even be personalized.
Matching Sets: Darc Sport Athletics Active Sage Cropped Hoodie ($60)
If there’s one style Gen Zers will return to over and over again, it’s comfy athleisure. And if you want some numbers to back it up, 93% of respondents listed matching sets as one of their top trends for the year. This cropped hoodie fits the bill — especially since you can lean into the sporty vibe with the matching Darc Sport Athletics Active Ellie Fleece Sweat Shorts ($55).
Tote Bags: Lorecia Elodie Signature Tote ($134)
According to our survey, Gen Zers are also looking to trade in their typical backpacks for designer totes — 72% to be exact. And if you want my two cents on it, I go to fashion school in New York and can confirm I see this Lorecia tote everywhere on my campus. Plus, it comes in 12 different colors and has varying size options. Bonus style points if you add keychains and plushies to personalize the bag.
Statement Earrings: Louise Carter Milan Earrings ($39)
Among the trending jewelry, statement sculptural earrings were one of the most listed, and these definitely fit the vibe. Plus, the beautiful thing about Louise Carter is that they allow you to build your own bundle with seven pieces for $85. That way, you’ll be able to lean into other trends that were voted for, such as mixed metals, stacked bangles, and layered pendant lockets.
Leopard Print: Garage Sleek Scoop Cami Top ($30)
You heard it here first. Leopard print is officially a neutral. I can see this cami top from Garage pairing well with some capri leggings and flip flops for another off-duty-model look.
Baggy Jeans: PacSun Kaia Ultimate Low Rise Baggy Jeans ($60)
Aside from athleisure, baggy jeans are another staple that’s not leaving Gen Zers’ closets anytime soon. With their low-rise fit and overall Y2K feel, these jeans are on-trend, and you’ll inevitably rewear them for months to come.
Refined Footwear: Urban Outfitters Lucy Satin Ballet Flats ($45)
Looking to trade in their typical sneakers, “refined footwear” was another trend Gen Zers were planning on incorporating into their style this school year. Ballet flats were one of the listed types of footwear, and this pair is actually a staple in my own wardrobe. I love wearing them with capris (shocker!) or a pair of baggy jeans and a cute top.
Sheer Fabrics: Edikted Irenah Asymmetric Sheer Chiffon Midi Skirt ($28)
A whopping 70% of Gen Zers listed sheer fabrics as one of the top fashion trends for the school year as well. This skirt would pair nicely with a cropped, boxy tee and some flip flops for an effortlessly chic vibe. Or if you wanted something more feminine, pair it with a peplum top and some kitten heels.
Vera Bradley: Vera Bradley Original Vera Tote ($135)
Another designer tote bag that made it into Gen Zers’ wishlists? Vera Bradley. The brand’s totes come in varying prints (even Disney and Hello Kitty prints!) and offer both a premium cotton version as well as a leather one.
Retro Sneakers: Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 ($190)
While your typical Adidas Sambas and New Balance dad sneakers made it onto the list of trending footwear (not surprisingly), more indie brands like Onitsuka Tiger also made the list. The 66s, specifically this yellow pair, were one of the most commonly listed.