Each semester at the University of Mississippi ushers in a new rotation of fashion trends across campus. Some students, however, believe recent trends have de-emphasized a herd mentality when it comes to expressing oneself through clothing. Everyday styles are becoming more personalized, with students racing to become the first ones to adopt new fashion fads.
With football season just around the corner, the Grove and Vaught-Hemingway Stadium will transform into metaphorical runways for outdoor fashion shows.
Sophomore marketing major Sophia Carter noted that the various kinds of outfits which fill Oxford are typically attuned to the occasion.
“On game days or for social events, people tend to dress up much more because they know they’ll be seeing a lot of people, taking pictures, wanting to look good, feel good,” Carter said. “I also think people feel like they’re representing themselves, their friends or even their (sororities), so they want to make a good impression.”
Junior integrated marketing communications major Kinsley Kahlert, who is specializing in fashion merchandising and promotion, said game day outfits and classroom attire serve equally important purposes.
“The main differences I see between (outfits for) game days and daily outfits are that our daily outfits are just as put together, but just serve a different purpose,” Kahlert said. “Our daily outfits are comfortable and practical, while (outfits for) game days are much more expressive and performative.”
In a culture heavily influenced by social media, students often look to online platforms for fashion inspiration. Trends emerging on apps like TikTok and Instagram quickly make their way into the classroom.
“I think social media has a huge influence on trends, especially on a college campus,” Carter said. “Everyone wants the newest styles or wants to be one of the first people wearing something before it becomes popular.”
Junior Kate Bolio, an integrated marketing communications major who serves as head of relations for the UM Fashion Panel, shared a similar perspective.
“I believe social media is one of the most — if not the most — influential tool in fashion,” Bolio said. “When we think of what’s trending, it’s usually based on what we have seen on social media. Social media is a major way to set the trends and communicate them across campus.”
Senior Lauren Cincurak, a communication sciences and disorders major, said TikTok has become especially influential in shaping fashion trends at Ole Miss.
“I think TikTok plays a huge role in the sorority fashion scene,” Cincurak said. “I see lots of Parke sweatshirts, matching sets and similar styles on TikTok. ‘RushTok’ is also a huge trendsetter for the season.”
The term “RushTok” refers to the large number of posts on TikTok about sorority recruitment, including “get ready with me” videos and advice about what to wear for each part of recruitment.
For many students, developing a personal style has become a way to experiment with identity, build confidence and communicate individuality through everyday clothing choices. Carter said she has noticed students moving away from coordinated, trend-driven outfits in favor of looks that feel more personal.
“People are starting to move toward more unique combinations instead of matching pieces,” Carter said. “I think colorful clothing will continue to become even more popular because it stands out and lets people show more personality.”
Secondhand shopping, either in traditional thrift stores or through consignment apps like Depop, is one way students are personalizing their looks this season. Sophomore integrated marketing communications major Jimee Brooke Garrett said she expects students to continue embracing affordable and environment-friendly clothing.
“Thrifting, or even apps like Depop or Poshmark, have been a huge trend lately — one of my favorite (trends), actually — that I think will continue to grow for a while,” Garrett said. “It’s the cheapest way to buy cute and unique clothes sustainably. The best one-of-a-kind pieces in my closet have come to me secondhand.”
Austin K. Smith, a senior journalism and art history double major who serves as director for outreach and relations for UM Fashion Panel, said students are becoming more intentional about the trends they follow.
“I think the overconsumption of microtrends will continue to fade as more people embrace secondhand shopping and vintage fashion,” Smith said. “People are becoming more intentional with capsule wardrobes and having that timeless aspect.”
Students also noted the rise of statement accessories. Kahlert said hair accessories are an increasingly popular way to stand out at Ole Miss.
“With headbands going out of style again and the prevalence of the claw clip, I’m excited to see what hair accessory dethrones (the headband) next. I think fashion itself, especially in the SEC, is moving away from the neutrals and moving towards individual style,” Kahlert said.
Footwear is one department that will not see much change this semester, according to students.
“Ballet flats and Mary Janes are not going anywhere,” Garrett said.
Cincurak echoed Garrett’s statement and mentioned one tried-and-true shoe sensation for game day.
“Cowgirl boots are always a game day staple,” Cincurak said. “As for myself, I will still be here to advocate for both flats and capris.”
However, fashion’s significance extends beyond simply following trends or choosing the perfect game-day outfit.
“Fashion has always meant more than just clothing to me,” Smith said. “It’s a way to express yourself and show yourself to those around you, or even find a group of people that resonates with your lifestyle.”
