As the Malibu sun begins to set earlier and the breeze cools, students across campus are trading in their beachwear for cozy layers and fall essentials.
Whether it’s chunky sweaters or stylish boots, fall fashion at Pepperdine brings a season of comfort and creativity through fashion.
Coastal Style Meets Cozy
This season, students said they like transitioning into fall by blending simple closet staples with new pieces, accessories and styles.
Junior Kate Elise Norris said one of her favorite ways to layer is with any sort of cool jacket.
“My go-to is the Canadian tuxedo, so usually jeans and an oversized denim jacket,” Norris said. “It is super easy to throw on and it always gets a ton of compliments.”
Whether it’s adding a statement jacket or mixing textures, students are finding many creative ways to embrace the season.
Junior Chloe Gill said she likes to elevate her autumn style by incorporating new textures into her fall wardrobe.
“There is always a fun way to style an outfit for colder weather,” Gill said. “I love a simple tee with a thick, heavily textured knit on as my top layer. The cherry on top is a big scarf wrapped around my head.”
Both Norris and Gill said they appreciate the way a fall staple can enhance a simple outfit. They said it’s simple to transform a laid-back outfit into a fun, stylish fall look with minimal effort.
Fall Inspirations
Student fall fashion inspiration comes from various sources, whether it’s observing other stylish individuals or tapping into personal feelings.
“My inspiration for fall outfits comes from the sixties in London,” Norris said. “Everyone was wearing a mix of different textures and patterns, lots of velvet.”
Gill said she is also starting to incorporate more colors into her wardrobe due to the idea of “dopamine dressing.” Dopamine dressing refers to the concept of using bright colors and expressive clothing to enhance mood and promote happiness, according to Harper’s Bazaar.
“As much as I love fall, seasonal depression is real so I am trying to truly dopamine dress to the fullest,” Gill said.
Gill said she likes how dopamine dressing encourages her to explore personal associations with color and wearing what brings her joy, rather than conforming to specific trends or colors.
Cozy Season on Campus
Campus fashion sometimes gravitates toward similar styles, creating a collective movement that reflects both comfort and the shared campus culture.
Norris said she notices a campus trend of wearing sweat sets as a way of staying warm. She said that while these outfits are perfect for cooler weather, it’s possible to still look polished and express personal style with a sweatshirt and sweatpants.
“I think a matching set looks more put together,” Norris said. “I did get kind of into Aviator Nation since coming to Pepperdine because a lot of people wear it, there’s a store right down the road and I like the vintage vibe of the brand.”
Norris describes herself as a vintage fashion lover and finds ways to incorporate her retro aesthetics into the Malibu culture while staying warm and comfortable.
Trend Predictions
As autumn approaches, students anticipate some trends that will arise with the new season. Bold colors and textured materials are expected to make popular appearances.
“Cherry wine red, honey yellow, dark denim, studs, suede and worn-in leather are definitely taking over fall 2024,” Gill said, highlighting the rich hues and timeless fabrics that will shape this season’s wardrobe.
Norris said she predicts patterns will have their moment this fall as well.
“I definitely think stripes will be in this fall too,” Norris said. “Personally, I like to pair my stripes with polka dots because I think it’s fun. I also think that gingham will carry on from summer into fall, just in more jewel tones.”
Norris said she enjoys experimenting with new trends and fabrics to have fun with her styling. However, other students prefer sticking to their existing style, choosing not to follow changing trends.
Junior Cade Swearingen said he prefers a more consistent approach to his wardrobe, regardless of shifting trends.
“I feel like people will be wearing layers as well and heavier stuff,” Swearingen said. “I feel like my style stays the same, so I don’t necessarily fall into the trends on campus, but I do enjoy seeing the changes.”
Whether students are embracing bold new trends or sticking to their signature styles, the diversity of fall fashion on campus reflects both creativity and individuality.
The seasons changing brings new ways to balance warmth and style while showcasing new expressions and personal styles.
Fall at Pepperdine isn’t just about staying warm — it’s an opportunity for students to make every outfit their own.
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Contact Bohuen Tong via email: bohuen.tong@pepperdine.edu
