Campus Runway: Underrated Fashion Trends

Every era has its pinnacle of fashion successes and mishaps, trends that are overdone and trends that are overlooked or, in other words, underrated. 

Out of this chaos, a new constellation of looks is constantly being born, and many worthy looks are left sitting on the shelf.  

You know a look is underrated when you can think of a handful of people who would disagree that the look was ever in. This is also how you know you are doing something right in fashion: when others do not fully understand what you are going for or see certain pieces as just “not in.” The following list compiles different outfit pieces that you will not often find off the runway and in mainstream fashion culture today.

1. Low-waisted jeans 

Low-waisted jeans are the pinnacle of fashion moves that were supposedly left in the early 2000s. There are just a few brave souls who are breathing new life into the way low-waisted jeans are worn today. 

As obsolete as they may seem, this style of jeans packs a certain punch when done correctly. An oversized low-waisted jean paired with a statement cropped tee or an oversized button up is the breath of new life I am referring to. We are living in a high-waisted world, and this underrated trend deserves its moment in the spotlight. Long live the early 2000s. 

2. Quarter-length shorts 

As we endure many hot summer days, it may seem tempting to grab the cut-off or midi-length shorts off the shelf, leaving the longer, quarter-length shorts in the “not worn” pile. This season, however, quarter-length shorts are in the air, elevating the looks of those bold enough to sport them. 

From breezy Bermudas to tighter denim, these shorts are the perfect way to add some class to an outfit. You can easily pair this style of shorts with a patterned, collared shirt for a chicer look or with an oversized tee for a look that is geared towards comfort. 

3. Flip flops

Choose flip flops, but make it fashion. The flip flop is most certainly a shoe that has had its share of controversy on whether or not it is in style or out. But there is a new flip flop on the block, and it is not your flat, foam slip on. 

Take the flip flop with a kitten heel, or the puffy, strapped platform flip fop or, dare I say, the flat flip flop with a leather strap. These different styles of flip flops are the only saving grace for sprucing up a traditionally casual shoe.

4. Tulle (Tops, Skirts, Dresses)

The runway has been making the case for the puffy tulle comeback. Floor-length tulle skirts were initially seen in Paris at Chanel’s spring 2021 haute couture show in January, with a romantic makeover by designer Virginie Viard. British designer Molly Goddard, however, brought the trend in full force to London’s February 2021 Fashion Week. 

This underrated and daunting trend is merging with ’80s cool and contemporary fashion. Puffy tulle-sleeved tops and long tulle skirts or dresses will do all the talking if incorporated as a statement piece in an outfit. 

5. Puffer Vests

You have heard of the puffer jacket, but have you considered the puffer vest for this upcoming season? What you probably first saw worn by your dad overtop an old flannel is now taking brands such as Prada and Net-A-Porter by storm. Goodbye cheesy winter layering and hello high fashion, any-season statement piece. 

When wearing the puffer vest, it is important to consider what to pair and layer it with. I suggest the vest overtop a snug, simple tee and a pair of oversized pants. If you really want to cozy up, try layering the vest with a baggy hoodie.

6. Velvet 

Velvet is a material that has been reworked year after year and is a highly tactile fabric that suggests regency and glamour. While the days of velvet Christmas dresses and cropped tees are long behind us, velvet has been simultaneously reimagined and overlooked.

The ’80s jumpsuits are back on the rise. Thus, reimagined velvet is looking less like class and more like comfort. Celebrities such as Cara Delevingne and Zendaya are paving this path with velvet suit sets and elevated velvet jumpsuits. 

Green is the feature editor. Follow her on Twitter at @jessigreen0.