Photos by Bailey Bosworth
He’s got that long hair, slicked back, white T-shirt … we never go out of style.”
While most guys at Pepperdine don’t necessarily look like they’ve stepped out of a Taylor Swift music video (or resemble Harry Styles), they definitely have their own senses of style. Whether they channel their sporty David Beckham look or posh Riot Club members, the men at Pepperdine know how to dress and stay true to their styles.
On an average day, you will see guys generally looking laid back (this is LA, people). This look takes shape in the form of printed button-downs and coordinating pants.
Model: junior Desmond Herring
These short-sleeved button downs are perfect for a day in sunny LA. With 80-degree weather in February, it’s good to have other stylish alternatives to plain T-shirts. Pair them with cool shoes or edgy corduroys to make the look your own. Adding layers or sunglasses can personalize the outfit as well. Pepperdine students typically know how to dress for all weather, especially the heat, and these guys are the perfect examples.
Model: junior T.K. Adedeji
The fun part of living in Malibu is that there are lots of directions to take with your outfits; since it’s such a quirky place, several variations of style choices are accepted.
Another look that is widely accepted here at Pepperdine is the athletic look. Similar to the women’s athleisure look, a lot of men rock their Lululemon shorts and Nike shoes to the gym or even to class. In the Malibu area, fitness is an intensely pursued goal, so there is no shortage of athletic attire.
Another aspect of the guys’ wardrobes here at Pepperdine is their business attire. Spring semester is internship-hunting season, and suits and business clothing emerge from deep within the mens’ closets for the occasion. We will definitely be seeing classy looks ranging from simple, black slacks to statement shoes, especially at the career fair. A guy in a suit looks great, but it is really admirable when they put extra effort into their outfit by adding personal touches like unique socks or even a pocket square.
A look somewhat specific to Malibu is the preppy look. Not typical of California in general, there are lots of guys from other parts of the country where boat shoes and Vineyard Vines are the norm. These styles have translated into the Pepperdine community, resulting in an extremely fratty demographic and style. If you are going for this preppy look, then be sure to stop by J. Crew for some polos and invest in some Chubbies.
There are also the cool, hipster guys that dress like they are about to drive to Santa Monica for a concert or traipse around LA for a day. These edgy individuals can typically be seen wearing fly kicks (maybe even Yeezy’s?), distressed pants and/or a trendy hat. Watches are also powerful pieces that make a statement.
Of course there is one more look that is specific to Pepperdine that must be mentioned: the beachy look. When your school overlooks the Pacific Ocean and you daydream about being in the glistening water from the library, people definitely dress the part. If you want some inspiration, just look at everyone rocking tank tops and Rainbow flip-flops as they go from class to Zuma. If you attend Surf Chapel, you will be sure to see a few Vibey sweatshirts and baseball hats.
With all of the various styles at Pepperdine, it is really fun to see the diversity present on campus. One thing that I have always learned about clothes and style is to never judge someone based off of what they wear. Don’t ever be intimated by what anyone else wears or what they will think of your choices; always be sure to dress for yourself!
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Follow Bailey Bosworth on Twitter: @themalibubailey
