Emily Jones

Staff Writer

Now more than ever, runway styles have been playing a greater role in the way students dress.

Although the average high school student can’t afford brands such as Jason Wu, Diesel, or Prada, they are shaping the trends to fit into their daily lives and budget.

“Runway trends are really great to pull inspiration from,” said junior Sarah Augustinsky. “It’s interesting to see something so high fashion and how we translate the designers’ messages to make them work in our daily lives.”

The trend verdicts for this fall include graphic and chunky sweaters, menswear for girls, and boat shoes. Here, the low-down on these must-have fall items.

Graphic and chunky sweaters

Wave good-bye to the basic, humdrum sweater and say hello to chunky and punchy graphic knits.

Thanks to runway brands such as Celine and Chloé, solid and two-tonal striped sweaters are a great way to stay warm this fall with the sweater variety on full blast.

“Chunky knit sweaters are one of our hot items right now,” said Emily Lepore, assistant manager of  Nordstrom BP at Stoneridge Mall in Pleasanton. “Our customers love them because they’re comfy and look great paired back with a pair of leggings, a skirt, or a patterned dress.”

Think bold geometric and color-blocked patterns for ones of lighter variety, and thick, loose cable knits for comfy warmth, along with a bandage skirt, ribbed tights, and military booties.

“I like to wear chunky sweaters with skinny jeans and flats or moccasins,” said junior Jessica Gilbert. “They’re really comfortable.”

The Milan based brand Missoni debuted its Target collection in stores Sept. 13, making the fresh and bold knit pattern trend even more accessible and affordable for high school students on tight budgets.

Menswear for girls

Menswear has been making its mark not only on celebrities such as Emma Watson, but also on campus. The perfect blend of chic and functional, this fall trend worn correctly wins major compliments.

Picture tailored blazers, such as the ones junior Olivia Byers enjoys wearing, and flowing chiffon button-ups with your favorite pair of skinny denim, topped off with leather lace-up calf-boots.

The addition of a simple blazer to a mixture of ultra-feminine pieces add much dimension and contrast to many student looks.

“Wearing a super tailored, clean item like a blazer ups an outfit’s sophistication level,” said Sarah.

Branching off the menswear trend and popping up on many students’ feet is the utilitarian lace-up boot.  Paired with shorts, a skirt, or a dress, this stylish shoe makes for a trendy and transitional look for fall.

“Everyone can wear these boots because there are so many ways they are easily personalized,” said sophomore Sara Bilich. “My friends wear theirs with the tops folded down and with socks peeking out, which makes for a fresh, new look.”

This year, menswear makes a comeback on gender neutral styles that can flatter any girl’s body type. With this gender switch up on styles, people have more freedom to choose what they want.

Boat shoes

Whether paired with guys cargo shorts or girls denim shorts, boat shoes such as Sperry Top-Siders are a blooming trend making an impact on campus.

These unisex shoes not only look sleek with any outfit, but will also leave your feet thanking you for their durability and comfort.

“Mine are made of quality leather, and can survive some pretty rough stuff,” said junior Kyle Kao. “They’re just really, really durable, and actually pretty nice and comfortable.”

Of the many style variations and colors, notable favorites of students include metallic leather, studded embellishments, and classic options such as red and navy.

Vans uses its popular crisp, white canvas on their version of the Americana boat shoe.  This fresh and casual shoe has a high school flavor that fits many students’ wardrobes.

“Over the summer I was obsessing over them,” said junior Julia Magno. “I thought they were really cool and comfortable. Now, they’re like my everyday shoes.”

No matter how  much attention a student gives to runway fashion, their wardrobe choices reflect the fall trends. Chunky and punchy knits, menswear with a chic and girly twist, and comfy, nautical boat shoes are each making an impression on campus this fall.

“Everyone has their own style,” said Sarah. “With so many options, each person puts their own unique twist on the trend and style of the time.”