Microtrends of ‘The Bubble’

Words by Rachel Hambly, Writer

No matter what you study, where you're from, or how long you've been here at the University of St. Andrews, everyone can agree that we are in our own little world here, affectionately known as the 'The Bubble.' This term encapsulates the distinct ambiance felt by everyone: a small, close-knit atmosphere nestled onto a rugged, rocky coast, providing a snuggly and sealed off environment from off from the outside world. With about eight thousand students feeling the same way, everything circulates quickly, whether that be notes from an IR lecture, gossip from your roommate, or fashion trends.

Unlike urban college campuses, which are swept up in never-ending fast fashion cycles and a constant stream of media in their faces, life moves at a slower pace here, allowing each student to truly discover themselves, and in return, what they love to wear. This deeper understanding of who they are allows their real colors and style shine. That's why, here at St. Andrews, you'll notice that the main items of clothing and styles you see here may differ from what you see every day on your For You Page.

Due to each student’s keen sense of self and personality, it is easy to get inspired, even on a quick Tesco run. Every time I leave my dorm room, I see at least one outfit (if not five) that makes me run to Depop or The Real Real and scour post after post, looking for my personal version of the outfit I saw on the street. This behavior leads to reoccurring clothing pieces, spread organically throughout the student body, giving St. Andrews its own microtrends. Although I've only been here for just over a month, a couple essentials emerge when I think of reoccurring trends that stand out to me. The fall sartorial scene has been shaped by a mixture of vintage and Western inspirations, luxe accessories, and playful statement pieces, each accenting the essence of 'The Bubble.'

Suede: A Material for the People

Suede is one of the most versatile and decadent trends to emerge this semester. From jackets to boots to skirts, suede has become a go-to texture for any student, regardless of gender, looking to elevate their casual look for class or keep them warm on a windy night out at Molly's. While it is trendy in mainstream fashion chains, such as suede boots at Zara or a studded suede jacket I saw in And Other Stories, it can also be easy to find in a charity shop or vintage store. The material holds up through anything, making investing in a nice piece of suede clothing worth your while.

Plus, it truly goes with anything!

As I was walking to class the other day, I saw someone carrying a large suede tote in the most delicious chocolate brown color—the perfect color and texture for fall. Suede's slouchy form works with any outfit, so whether you prefer loose jeans for class or a mini skirt, suede has got you covered.

Denim on Denim: A Timeless Set

Denim on denim once was a controversial topic in the fashion world, but it is not here in St. Andrews. Also known as the Canadian Tuxedo, this outfit is worn not just for formal occasions,as the name may imply, but also as a casual class outfit. Students have added twists on the classic look, such as using different shades and textures of denim or mixing pieces such as an oversized denim button-up, perhaps from their father's closet (maybe this is just me), with a micro denim skirt to add a touch of surprise. I have also seen a handful of denim accessories here and there on the streets of St Andrews. My favourite was a denim trucker hat I saw on South Street as I stood in the dreaded line at the Royal Bank of Scotland. Adorned with red stitching across the front and an assortment of patches on the brim, it was a unique and refreshing take on such a classic material.

Cowboy Boots: Bringing the West to the East

Denim isn't the only Western fad I've seen around town due to the strong resurgence of boots everywhere I look. Cowboy boots are a popular trend worldwide and have been for a long time, but the boots here in St. Andrews are unlike any I've ever seen. While their popularity may be due to all the Americans here (me included), their duality between functionality and style isn't hurting their popularity either. Plus, it doesn't matter what the design or color of the boots are; they'll go with any pattern or hue you choose to pair them with. I'll always love a classic brown or black leather cowboy boot, but it's the statement ones that I absolutely love. My favorite pairs I've seen in the past month include a brown leather pair adorned with fringe down the side at Starfields, a navy pair with intricate light blue stitching sitting next to me in a lecture, and a black pair with white and turquoise butterflies sewn onto the back of each boot.

Vests: Using the Art of Layering

Knowing how to layer is critical to surviving the unpredictable and temperamental coastal weather here in St. Andrews, or so I've been told. I plan on wearing vests during my first winter here, and I know I'm not the only one. What I love about vests in St. Andrews is that I see a such a vast assortment of them daily. Our student body wears them all, from puffers to fur gilets, denim, or suit vests! They’re a fun pop of material to see peeking out from under an oversized coat and are an easy but stylish way to protect your body from the harsh sea winds.

Since being here at St. Andrews, I've started to dip my toes into vests more, turning to Depop to find my twist on the trend. First, I bought a brown fur gilet, a very fuzzy addition to my closet. I love the way the little strands of fur poke up through my coat collar, and I can feel luxurious while also just wearing a casual baby tee or tank underneath, allowing me to wear it to both the library and the pub. I've also purchased a teal suede (two microtrends in one!) vest adorned with a little belt around the waist that I've enjoyed styling since it arrived in my mail slot. It's a tad oversized, allowing me to wear baggier button-down shirts underneath or a sweater if the weather calls for it. Plus, if it gets too hot, it's easy to throw in your school bag because you can never truly rely on the weather forecast here for an accurate temperature.

Venetian Slippers: A Casual Elegance

Venetian slippers, a classic example of understated elegance, have made their way onto the fashion scene here at St. Andrews and have become the footwear of choice for many on campus. Popularized by Venetian nobility and artisans, the minimal design and luxurious materials - such as leather, velvet, and suede - make them effortlessly cool. They are a match made in heaven for the cobblestone streets that can be tricky to walk on, as they have a comfortable sole that molds to the foot and street as they are worn.

This style of shoe pairs beautifully with the preppy, academia-inspired outfits that dominate campus, from structured blazers to wool trousers, adding a touch of European flair to the student body's modern wardrobe. They come in a range of styles and colors, and I see a new combination every day. Some have lace-up ribbons like a pointe shoe, while others are made from sherpa-like material, and some are made of beautiful neon suedes and leather. I saw a pair of navy Mary Jane-style Venetian slippers the other day with neon pink trim that will immediately be on my Christmas list.

At St. Andrews, fashion reflects the students' direct take on tradition, history, and modernity, which are three powerful traits of the university. These microtrends - suede, denim on denim, cowboy boots, vests, and Venetian slippers - provide insight into how students navigate the ever-changing world of quick fashion trends and the demands of life in 'The Bubble.' To us, style is more than just following trends – it is about how to reinvent them and curate them to fit this unique and historic university. As my time here progresses, I will be fascinated to see how these trends evolve and how I will continue to be inspired by my fellow students.