Self-expression or Social Pressure: Fashion on Campus

Picture Source: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/campus/use-welcome-workshops-build-student-belonging

Students showcase different fashion styles while walking around campus.

Fashion has evolved from a garment for university students to something more. It is a means to show personality, confidence and identity on many campuses. For some students, however, dressing up is a pleasure because it makes them feel good; others recognize that they feel a pressure to keep up with fashion, and what social media expects of them.

When you wander through the university hallways, you'll see students with fashion-forward attire, some with fancy shoes and all styles having thoughtfully-chosen accessories. Attending classes, meeting friends and engaging in campus activities seem to give them a sense of confidence when they look handsome or pretty.

“It is fun to pick out my clothes in the morning because it is a way of expressing me,” said Amanda Lee, second-year Mass Communication student. I feel more confident about myself when I am wearing fashionable clothes, but I don't go out of style.

Students' fashion preferences have been greatly shaped by social media sites like TikTok and Instagram. Daily fashion tips, viral outfit videos and suggestions from influencers inspire pupils to try something new. These platforms can, however, also set up false expectations of looks.

“Sometimes I compare myself to the people online,” said Jason Tan, a first-year Business student. “When everyone is wearing some really nice clothing, I feel like my clothes are not good enough. It can be stressful.”

Others feel there is an unspoken competition for fashion in campus. Certain students may be embarrassed by having to wear the same clothes every day, or new clothes or popular brands may draw attention. As a result, a number of students spend more money on clothing than they originally planned.

Some students interviewed said peer influence is also a factor in purchasing. When other students are seen wearing trendy garments, this can prompt others to purchase the same garments so as to “play the game” with the social crowd.

Despite all this, it is now an increasing number of students with a positive attitude towards fashion. They promote sustainable fashion by promoting thrifting, using old clothes, and creating a personal style that is comfortable, rather than trendy, instead of concentrating on expensive brands.

Picture Source: https://www.gardrobkozossegivasar.hu/en/blogs/cikkek/a-hasznalt-ruha-forradalma

Second hand clothes

Psychology student Sarah Wong explained that she has begun purchasing second hand clothes since they are cheap, but not common. “There's that whole notion that fashion should be about creativity not how much money you spend.”

Lecturers  Teejes also feel that universities should allow students to respect the individual instead of appearance. They believe that confidence, academic achievement and personal integrity are more significant than appearance.

Fashion is constantly changing along with the social media, so students are being taught how to express themselves while keeping to society's norms. Although the trends will keep on changing, many people feel it's about wearing clothes that are more suited to the wearer's personality than trying to be accepted by the people around.

Fashion is a creative outlet for many university students, and a source of pressure. What is difficult is that they have to be brave to voice their opinion and not let trends or the public opinion determine who they are.