A Student’s Guide to 2020’s Fashion Trends: Which To Buy And Which Should Die

2020 has officially arrived, and with it, the “New Year, New Look” mentality. The new decade has ushered in some bold trends, as showcased on numerous runways during Fashion Week. But, within the Christ Church student body, one problem persists: we’re students. We are either sitting stiff in a classroom for 8 hours a day or on the go walking up numerous flights of stairs to reach said classes. We have to be able to concentrate, but we don’t want to look dull and drab. So, I’ve done all the research and pulled together some *wearable* trends (so you don’t have to spend hours on the internet like I did). Without further adieu, here is your guide to the best and worst trends of 2020:
Wearability: 8
If you’re looking for a bolder alternative to Cavalier blue *collective administrative gasp*, then True Blue is your color for this year. Pantone, the company that exists solely for choosing colors each year, describes the shade as “a reassuring presence instilling calm, confidence and connection”, which is something we could all use going forward into the New Year. Whether you need an extra positivity boost, or you just like the color, it’s easy to incorporate into a school wardrobe.
Wearability: 7.5
I used to think of Bermuda shorts as something 10-year-old summer camp kids wore, and, consequently, would avoid them like the plague. Recently though, it seems that they are getting a serious upgrade and are now considered the peak of fashion. Hey, they’re modest and they’ll get us through our Southern “spring”.
Wearability: 10
Finally, a welcome reprieve from the tight miniskirts and dresses of 2019! (Though I don’t think those going anywhere, I’m glad that this trend is getting some more spotlight). They’re a) comfortable, b) chapel-appropriate, and c) all in one piece, so no more pondering over what separates to pair together. Not to mention they’re SO PRETTY.
Wearability: 6
Doc Martens will always be a classic, edgy wardrobe staple, but, this year, major fashion houses and local retailers alike are producing boots with crazy buckles and studs – actually, I’ll let the picture above do the talking. Given the details on these and the sheer heftiness of the boots themselves, it might be difficult to wear these casually; but hey, there’s always someone who could make it work.
Wearability: 2
Alright, tell me how this sounds: You walk into class wearing boots, a skirt, and a shirt. No problem, right? Now picture that scenario again, but imagine that every single thing you’re wearing is made of leather. In the spring and summer. The discomfort and impracticality alone are enough to drive anyone away from this trend (not to mention that it looks like a the reconstructed remains of a leather car seat.)
Wearability: 8.5
I may not be a huge print person, but there’s something special about polka dots that makes it the perfect pattern to wear all year long, whether it’s a barely-there sprinkling of dots or gigantic colorful circles. Last year, moody florals were in (groundbreaking), but this year, it seems that the classic spots are making a triumphant return.
Wearability: 8.5
I may not be a huge print person, but there’s something special about polka dots that makes it the perfect pattern to wear all year long, whether it’s a barely-there sprinkling of dots or gigantic colorful circles. Last year, moody florals were in (groundbreaking), but this year, it seems that the classic spots are making a triumphant return.
Wearability: -0.5
Here’s what I think happened: A designer was told to come up with a new trend by the next morning, but they forgot their morning coffee and fell asleep at their desk, and then woke up with ten minutes until the deadline, so they went and cut up a piece of their grandmother’s couch cover, slapped it on a model, and called it a “trend”. And somehow, their empty-headed boss accepted it. A little crochet cardigan here or there is fine, but I think everyone got a little desperate this year and decided to bring in one of the ugliest looks ever seen.
Wearability: 9
As long as it’s not too wide *cough* Bottega *cough*, a square toe can actually look pretty modern and cool if you’re looking for something with edge but you don’t want to stick to the same pointy toe. I could drone on and on about these, but I think the pictures above give a pretty good idea of what to look for.
Wearability: 3
I’m not talking about pointy collars on anoraks or sherpa jackets – those will always be classic (and not crazy exaggerated). No, I’m warning everyone to stay at least 50 feet away from this trend at all times. Whoever thought disco wasn’t dead needs a wake-up call, stat. Not only are they ugly, but where exactly would you wear this? At a costume party? Just – no.

Whether you choose to don one of these trends or all of them, you’ll be acing your tests in style. There’s something for everyone, so choose what suits your personality (which, after all, is the whole point of fashion). Happy shopping!