By Samantha Berkhead
Associate Editor
The standard wardrobe protocol for students at many American colleges is pretty simple. Sweatshirts, T-shirts, sweatpants — not a lot of people deviate from these essentials when it comes to rolling out of bed for class.
Chanel’s current figurehead and fashion mastermind Karl Lagerfeld once said, “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life, so you bought some sweatpants.”
This statement seems to be the style mantra behind the wardrobes of men and women across Europe. The continent’s collegiate population wouldn’t be caught dead wearing any of the aforementioned fashion sins. Even in Northern Ireland, a place with more sheep and cows than people, students go to class in high heels and the latest runway trends. In Northern Ireland, if you don’t wear makeup out of the house, you might as well have been raised in a barn.
The city of Belfast has no shortage of stores in which one can pick up clothes inspired by this fall’s hottest looks. However, the typical St. Bonaventure student doesn’t shop in Victoria Square at European stores like Topshop, Primark, Republic or River Island.
With a little creativity, a little time and a lot of persistence, pretty much anyone can dress in the fun and zany styles of fall fashion in Europe.
This season, anarchy in the U.K. is back with a vengeance. Studs, spikes, crosses and skulls adorn countless garments of subdued military shades. Invest in a good pair of Doc Martens, and don’t be afraid to tear some rips in your jeans.
Masculine styles and cuts are also very in — blazers, button-down shirts and Peter Pan collars pop up everywhere on city streets across the Atlantic. To keep out the oncoming chilly weather, raid your grandpa’s closet for some chunky knitted sweaters and cardigans.
The trick is knowing how to mix the masculine with the feminine. If you haven’t yet heard of the peplum top, here’s your wake-up call. The edgy yet girly peplum shape looks great on a variety of body types. Lace and ruffles still have a major presence on clothing racks, and you can never go wrong with a dress over tights.
Stores like H&M and Forever 21 are pretty widespread throughout the U.S. and have tons of clothes that reflect this season’s trends, yet keep the prices low enough for you to experiment and tailor the trends to your own personal style. Thrift stores also offer great deals and surprising finds.
