Take a look at how the best-dressed students are influenced by trends and how they’re creating their own!
As promised, Street Styles is back and better than ever! This time, we’re at the Humber Polytechnic North campus to check out some of the most-seen fashion trends in the halls.
Trends are unavoidable, and even if you think you’re not being influenced by them — trust me — you are.
To better understand this, think of fashion as a boomerang. Some items might go away for a few seasons, but they always come back. For example, baggy jeans were a statement piece in the 90s, and everyone, including some of the students in this edition, is wearing them again!
Danna Alarcon, food and nutrition management
Starting strong with a true fashionista: Danna Alarcon. As you can see, she’s a walking Y2K icon. Alarcon makes the Y2K trend her own by blending hyper-feminine and gothic elements — an unexpected mix, but it totally works!
She said that her all-time fashion inspiration is Megan Fox, especially in the movie Transformers. That’s why low-rise bottoms and crop tops are a must for Alarcon. Not to mention those high heels — she deserves a shoutout for that level of commitment!
Alarcon also said she’s heavily influenced by social media and the fashion from her home country, Peru, where people dress up extra for any occasion.
Jaden Lewars, business administration
Jaden Lewars is also a Y2K fan but with a modern twist. The business administration student said that he likes to dress “depending on the day.” Some days, that means streetwear, other days, business casual.
As a 2000s fashion advocate, he loves everything baggy: jeans, sweats, jerseys, crewnecks and hoodies — very Pinterest-coded.
“If I see a fit I like, I feel inspired to recreate it.”
Jaden Lewars
When it comes to fashion inspiration, he follows the bold style of basketball player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the “Atlanta-rapper style” known for its Southern hip-hop roots, flashy designer logos and oversized jewelry.
Aliyah Chhalawala, esthetician/spa management
Aliyah Chhalawala is a true chameleon, changing her fashion persona with the seasons.
In the fall and winter months, comfort is her priority. That’s why she leans toward a more casual, boyish look like Jacob Elordi. She describes this style as streetwear, but “put together.”
Now, spring and summer is when the fun begins! Chhalawala loves experimenting with her style during these seasons, especially because the warm weather allows for more outfit options.
She shifts from streetwear to a more feminine style full of cottagecore vibes and Y2K trends. This summer, thanks to social media popularity, she said she’s all about capris with ballet flats or kitten heels.
Lastly, as a Torontonian with Indian heritage, she adds a unique touch to her looks with standout pieces and Indian golden jewelry.
Willow Cameron-Hersh, nutrition and healthy lifestyle promotion
Second-year student Willow Cameron-Hersh is a fan of the femme style. She likes to use feminine mainstream pieces like mesh and crop tops that allow her to “wear my skin.”
While Cameron-Hersh is mostly influenced by feminine trends, she likes to experiment with clothes from popular subcultures, such as silver accessories and dark clothing from the punk style.
Cameron-Hersh also mentions that her outfits are influenced by her creative personality and what she finds at thrift stores — her main shopping destination.
Bradley Ogbevuon, business management
Someone who likes to stay cozy while dressed up is business management student Bradley Ogbevuon. He takes streetwear and casual style to the next level through accessories and 2000s trends like flare jeans.
“From a young age, I’ve been taught that how you present yourself matters. So, whether I’m dressing up or dressing down, it’s instilled in me to stand out.”
Bradley Ogbevuon
Ogbevuon said that his standout outfits are possible thanks to thrift stores, his dad’s closet and past trends such as the Adidas Originals tracksuits paired with matching shell toes.
Elizabeth Jonueel Hernandez Pelayo, culinary management
Why go for minimalist fashion when you can go all-out with maximalism, like Elizabeth Jonueel Hernandez Pelayo? For her, the more you add to an outfit, the better. Through accessories, layers and textures, she definitely makes her looks stand out.
Hernandez Pelayo said her outfits are very office-core but in a fashionable way. Think of the office siren aesthetic but more extravagant. She also incorporates elements from her Mexican culture, such as accessories crafted by Mayan artisans and long traditional skirts.
Social media is a major source of inspiration for Hernandez Pelayo. For instance, when she saw influencer @va.nessa_____ transform a basic long-sleeve shirt into a high-couture top, she had to try it herself. (See the photo above for reference!)
Finally, I just need to say: Hernandez Pelayo in high stilettos at school? A true trendsetter.
What are your thoughts on these fit checks? Personally, my jaw dropped when I saw so many well-dressed students at the North campus — you’re all killing it!
As you can see, if you pay attention to the small details, trends are the invisible string that ties everyone’s unique style together.
Let us know on social media @shareignite which outfit from this edition you loved the most and your favourite fashion trends!
North campus, it’s always an honour.
Feature image courtesy of Mike Von on Unsplash.
Are you interested in learning more about second-hand clothing and sustainable fashion? Make sure to check out the sixth edition of Street Styles!
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