Campus Catwalk: What are UoL students wearing on campus?

 Campus Catwalk: What are UoL students wearing on campus? 

Cosy SZN is finally with us at Leeds and the winter wardrobes are back. But what student staples does Leeds Uni love this season? We’ve all spotted the skinny scarves, afghan coats, platform UGGs and fur hats around campus, and we love to see it. So, if these sound like things you’re looking for or you’re just due a wardrobe upgrade, I’m your girl. 

I spoke to students on campus to get insight into their top picks for a winter wardrobe this term and where to shop this season. And for the vintage lovers - don’t worry, I’ve got you. 

I’ll be exploring three of the main wardrobe essentials we’ve seen on campus this term, as well as a current key trend. Keep reading for my top recommendations for slaying your seminars. 

1. Scarves 

Chunky, soft, skinny, long, thick, thin, short - these aren’t the innuendos you think they are. Scarves are officially back for the cold weather and are the perfect addition to any winter campus look. 

The classic skinny scarf is a look that can be worn all year round and resembles more of a statement piece than one of any practicality. They don’t exactly keep you the warmest, but they can undoubtedly tie together any look, giving it that Y2K appeal we all know and love. Just think Hannah Montana meets Lizzie McGuire. Perfect for adding an extra something to a basic outfit, or even for a night at the pub, they can give you that edge you’re after. I’ve seen so many girls wearing them in the past three or so years, but they can be such a challenge to get a hold of, especially if you’re shopping second-hand! 

Campus has definitely seen a rise in those soft knit chunky winter scarves that make a fashion statement whilst keeping you warm. That short walk from Eddy B to the Union Starbucks has us wishing we had put on just a few more layers…or purchased a chunky knit scarf. From what I’ve heard, a student fave has to be Primark’s new-in chunky wool scarves.

Where to buy? 

• Primark Chunky Scarf: £7 

• Urban Outfitters UO Tallie Fluffy Space-Dye Scarf: £28 

• Hollister Woven Scarf: £25 

• Urban Outfitters - iets frans… Football Scarf: £28 

• Urban Outfitters UO Y2K Sparkle Skinny Knit Scarf: £24 

• ASOS Tammy Girl Skinny Scarf: £20 

Vinted/Depop search ideas: 

Y2K skinny scarf, vintage skinny scarf, handmade scarf, chunky scarf, warm scarf, winter scarf, laddered scarf, crochet scarf. Look in charity shops too! My fave one at the moment is PDSA in Beeston - you can get the 1B bus from Headingley! 

2. Coats & Jackets 

A winter coat is a must in these cold months. I truly believe that outerwear can completely transform what the outcome of your look will be, and the styles are unlimited. From bomber jackets to puffer coats, leather to faux fur, I’m just loving the outerwear on campus this season! I’ve seen a lot more of the renowned afghan jackets as the colder weather greets us, which is perfect for our vintage lovers. Faux fur cuffs and collars are absolutely where it’s at. Speaking of faux fur, I strongly believe fur coats are making a comeback. Vintage lovers - it’s our time to shine. 

The North Face puffer seems to be a must in a ‘Uni Of’ girl’s wardrobe. I mean, they do have you feeling like you’re wearing your duvet to your seminar. A waterproof puffer is just the ultimate combination - warm and practical, and looks great too. It seems to be a fan favourite among us students, especially the classic Nuptse 550 or 700 down puffer in black. 

Vintage bomber jackets seem to be making an appearance on campus as of late, despite them being more of an autumn-appropriate piece. I have still seen a handful of stunning leather bomber jackets paired with cosy knit jumpers and scarves despite it being freeeeezing. If you’re not able to find anything vintage, acid-washed leather gives that vintage appeal if you’re searching for something brand new. 

The Afghan jacket is probably one of the most famous ‘Leeds Uni Girly’ items out there. Though not to be paired with a rainy day (wet fur, ew) I can’t deny that they are a cosy statement piece.

Where to buy? 

• The North Face Women’s 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket in Black: £315 

• Urban Outfitters ‘iets frans…’ Water-resistant Puffer Jacket: £79 

• Columbia Puffect Puffer Jacket in Black: £80 

• Basic Pleasure Mode Tundra Hooded Fur Jacket: £80 

• Urban Outfitters BDG Detroit Brown Faux Leather Workwear Jacket: £79 

• BoohooMan Boxy Washed PU Leather Bomber Jacket: £55 

• Superdry Women’s Faux Fur Lined Longline Afghan Coat: £144.99 

Vinted/Depop search ideas: 

North Face Nuptse 550/700 Puffer. Shopping these second-hand will save you those pennies!

Black puffer jacket waterproof puffer, vintage bomber jacket, acid-wash leather bomber, vintage biker jacket,  afghan jacket/coat, faux fur jacket/coat. 

If you’re lucky, you might find one in a charity shop. Try looking for ones on the outskirts of Leeds that people might not usually visit. Make it a fun day out with your bestie! 

3. Shoes 

I’ve noticed that Adidas Originals and UGG boots have taken campus by storm this year. The Adidas Campus trainers seem to be a popular fave at the minute. I love styling mine with a maxi skirt and a skinny jacket. It’s so simple yet so stylish. 

UGG boots are stunning and a super comfy choice, but it’s so hard to judge when to wear them in the unpredictable weather (rain and UGGs are a no). I have a feeling Salomons will make an appearance too, being such a practical yet unique shoe. I bought my first pair recently and have been loving them. 

Where to Buy? 

• Schuh, ASOS, UO, Size?, Office 

• UGG Tasman Slip-ons/UGG Platforms: £120-160 

• Adidas Campus Trainers: £85 

• Salomon Trainers: £90-£180 

Current Trend: Gorpcore - The Essentials:

• Arcteryx waterproof 

• Salomon Trainers 

• Beanies 

• Oakley Sunglasses 

Personal Trend Predictions for 2024: 

• Leopard Print 

• Fur coats 

• Boho/Coachella vibe for the summer 

• 2014 Tumblr 

• Double Denim 

• Slim fit - jackets, jeans, etc. 

Want to be interviewed & photographed next time? Email ed202lh@leeds.ac.uk for more info. 

Words + Images: Lily Hackett