Paige Rosenthal ‘28
Staff Writer
Following the end of February and the start of March, we are closing on the winter season and entering the excitement of spring. This has been reflected in the fashion world and the 5C community, who are funneling their joy through style. Let’s talk late-winter and early-spring fashion 2025 trends expressed in magazines like Vogue and around campus!
A common word heard on the internet and within the fashion industry in the past few months has been “boho-chic.” This style remains free-spirited and fashionable, taking roots within the 60’s and 70’s hippie-bohemian style. Brands like Isabel Marant are guiding this movement showcasing the importance of studded details, suede, embroidery, tassels, metallics, and loose silhouettes. Blouses with puffy sleeves and linens are a huge staple, along with everything crochet — bags, skirts, tops, and sweaters.
On a different note, “Fishermen Core” has also been a topic of conversation. This Fisher vibe emulates a cozier feel, with wool chunky knit sweaters and linen (often striped) pants. There are notes of blue, reds, and whites, adding a Cape Cod “coastal grandpa” spirit, with fun-colored beanies and moccasins to top the look off.
A trend I’ve been loving is a good monochrome, such as white-on-white or all-black looks, allowing jewelry and accessories to start. A slight twist on this style is showcased on campus commonly with denim-on-denim, known as the Canadian tuxedo, a true 5C staple for going out or classic day-to-day wear.
Patterns and textures add the utmost importance to any outfit. Polka dots are “classy” again — seen on the runway and in brands like Miu Miu and Reformation. Similarly, stripes are back and here to stay: horizontal, vertical, or a combination of both! The gingham pattern is one of my favorite designs, adding a southern-belle feel to any outfit.
While the fad of bows is fading, the enactment of buttons is coming in full force. I’m talking chunky, metallic, and tiny multi-colored buttons – on sweaters, down the sleeves of shirts, bags, and phone cases. While crochet and lace won’t ever fade, sequins and embroidery are making their marks in fashion worldwide.
The resurgence of the warming sun means skirts and dresses are back in style around campus. The summer dress is back to play with this boho tinge, inspiring longer, flowy dresses. This loose silhouette also follows the category of mini dresses as well, emulating a milkmaid, babydoll style. On the contrary, tight straight-neck mini dresses are also evident across many funky-inspired patterns.
Across the 5C’s, mini skirts have also been spotlighted — denim skirts paired with western belts, ruffled and bubble skirts coupled with preppy sweaters, and pleated skirts that offer an office-style twist to an otherwise simpler look. While pencil skirts are and have been highly active on the runway, Scripps students — in particular — remain wearing their uniformed maxi skirt, styled with hints of silk, lace, or a combination of both.
Last season, the it-color was red: deep burgundy and bright cherry reds. This season, alternatively, has proven to be the season of blue – particularly navy blue and light blue, though cobalt blue remains a staple in my wardrobe.
Color is proving a huge benefit to the fashion industry, offering an experimental and playful side to the forefront. Colored tights and socks have been aiding this idea. Along with this, juxtaposition is a huge word this season – wearing things that wouldn’t quite fit together: colors like blue and red, orange and pink, and styles like sporty with preppy are coming into play – such as sporty Adidas shorts with a knit cardigan or wool sweater.
What’s better than an accessory to complete an outfit? Last season we saw the rise of the belt and now we know they’re here to stay. I’m talking stupidly skinny-colored belts that add a pop, and fat statement belts layered on top of skirts. Hoops earrings remain a staple, while bangles and cuffs are coming back. We are also learning to play with our jewelry more — mixing metals, wearing chunkier pieces, and putting large pendants on necklaces.
As for bags, at the 5Cs, the classic “backpack” looks more like an oversized leather bag. Chunky totes flourish here, with embellishments such as pockets and metal details adding a spice. The decoration and personalizing of bags is one recent trend I’ve learned to love – adding trinkets, chains, bandanas, beads, and keychains that add a touch of personality.
When the warmer days get chilly and the sun sets, it’s important to have a trusty jacket. Fitted jackets are storming the runaways and trickling around campus. Whether denim, suede, leather, or cargo – these jackets provide flattering silhouettes to every outfit.
Sweaters remain a trustworthy partner, when one is too lazy to throw on a coat. On campus, these sweaters and cardigans showcase funky patterns and colors to provide a sense of silliness and personality in outfits. Off-the-shoulder sweaters and tops remain in, with the introduction of the less familiar sister style, boatneck.
In terms of tops – lace, silk, floral, blouses, and babydoll styles are on top following the flowy, prairie, boho-chic silhouette.
Footwear will always prove an extra step up in any outfit. The boot, particularly the Frye and other dupes have remained strong in influence amongst the 5C community. However this season, we’re seeing boots of all kinds – cowboy, motorcycle, timberlands. Many on the runway urge the comeback of the rainboot, however, our Southern California climate doesn’t seem to match this new claim.
However, flats are here in every way – mesh, square-toe, vibrant colors, or suede – you name it! If you want to take it a step further, the always-controversial Tabi shoe serves as a bold statement, taking flats to another level, one toe at a time. The loafer is a classic shoe of the community, fitting a preppy style – however, a clog/mule is a shoe not often seen around that I believe should come back.
Doc Martens, particularly low tops (and some) platformed, have remained true, and are now being worn in sandal form. In the past seasons, we’ve seen the Adidas Sambas storm the world. This season, I predict colorful sneakers to take over the stores. Brands like Puma, Onitsuka Tigers, Alohas, and Solomons prove new and funky, adding sharpness to any outfit.
While I could talk about fashion forever, we have reached the end of my rant here. I employ you to use Pinterest, follow new creators on Instagram, and find influence from the people within our community. Remember to have fun, experiment with what makes you happy, and revisit this article whenever you need creative inspiration!
