When I first set foot at Yale as a wide-eyed first-year student, I was not only taken aback by the vastness of Econ 115 or the challenges of learning French. Amidst the sea of students pouring out of Marsh lecture hall, what struck me was the absence of a single poorly dressed individual. Almost 500 Yalies had evidently made an effort to put together impressive outfits for our 1 p.m. lecture.
Yale boasts an unexpected level of sartorial excellence. The definition of stylish may vary among individuals—while I spotted only one person wearing a full suit and tie, everyone had something fashion-forward to offer.
Yale’s fashion scene transcends stereotypes of cookie-cutter outfits featuring Vineyard Vines, plaid prints, and pastels. Despite the affluence on campus, fashion here is more than just a New England prep school cliche. It’s a diverse blend of styles, with a range of trendy items to explore.
1. Elevated Leather Jackets
One ubiquitous trend on campus is leather jackets. These are not your traditional Danny Zuko “Greased Lightning” leather jackets; they have a blazer-like design with longer silhouettes and three front buttons. They pair beautifully with jeans and a crew neck or can be incorporated into a pantsuit. Whether adorned with wrap-around belts or lined with shearling, leather jackets in various shades of brown or black add a dash of style to any outfit.
2. Embracing Roomy Jeans
After years of skinny jeans domination, there’s a refreshing shift towards more comfortable, baggier pants. Cargo pants and work pants are making a comeback. It’s safe to say that skinny jeans are no longer the fashion trend at Yale.
3. Cozy, Oversized Sweaters
Thick, oversized sweaters are a personal favorite among Yalies. You’ll find everything from playful watermelon and pizza cardigans to classic knit quarter-zip styles. Whether it’s a cozy crew neck or a cream cable-knit sweater inspired by the likes of Chris Evans in Knives Out or Rory Gilmore from Yale, there’s a sweater for everyone.
4. Denim Enthusiasts
Denim is a beloved fabric, and Yalies are not afraid to embrace it fully. Denim-on-denim is more than acceptable; it’s a unifying aesthetic that balances order and ruggedness, bringing us one step closer to the day when business casual attire becomes the norm in our 9 a.m. classes.
5. School Spirit Style
One trend that unites us all is sporting the letters Y-A-L-E. Yale-branded clothing can even make athleisure look runway-ready. While the bookstore’s Yale merchandise might break the bank, there are more affordable options for displaying school pride with elegant, simple fashion.