St Andrews: Students are making a statement with their fashion choices, blending personal style with sustainability. Interviews reveal a shift towards thrift shopping and eco-conscious clothing, highlighting a significant cultural movement among the youth prioritising environmental impact alongside individual expression.
In the picturesque town of St Andrews, students are embracing fashion that not only reflects personal style but also highlights a growing trend towards sustainability. Interviews with several students from St Andrews University showcase a connection between clothing choices, environmental consciousness, and individual expression.
Thaen Graham, a 21-year-old student from the USA studying International Relations and German, displayed a keen interest in mixing high and low fashion, donning ON Tennis trainers from the Roger Federer line, Muji trousers, and a unique Cirque du Soleil t-shirt sourced from a thrift shop in Washington. When asked about his style, Graham described it as “varied and flowing. And blue! Can I say blue?” He also expressed a preference for shopping at thrift shops, indicating an inclination towards second-hand fashion.
Marnie Scatchard, a Geography student from England, opted for a look that she described as “lowkey old-fashioned,” featuring a white blouse from Zara and a vintage pair of glasses. Scatchard frequents both Zara and vintage shops, further demonstrating the importance of second-hand clothing in her wardrobe. Her style inspiration comes from actress Taylor Russell, whom she admires for her cool aesthetic.
Meanwhile, Zander Haramis, a Maths and Philosophy student with ties to Greece and Switzerland, showcased an eclectic style combining items from Uniqlo and a London tailor, presenting a freestyle approach to fashion. Zander emphasised the role of thrift shops in his shopping habits, reinforcing the trend of slow fashion among his peers.
Charlotte Weir, also a 21-year-old International Relations and Arabic student from the USA, provided a glimpse into her diverse style, accessorising with a scarf from a friend and shoes that belonged to her mother. With a penchant for items that reflect her international experiences, Weir highlighted the significance of heritage in personal style, citing iconic figures like Edie Sedgwick and Audrey Hepburn as her style icons.
Freddie Greenwood, studying English Literature, showcased an aesthetic rooted in earthy tones and textures, often sourcing his outfits from the platform Depop. Reflecting on his approach to style, he stated, “I just know when I like something it’s a feeling.” This sentiment underscores a broader trend among St Andrews students who are increasingly turning to platforms that promote the resale of clothing, thereby reducing waste.
Daryl Lamb, an Anthropology and Spanish student, took sustainability a step further by creating his own accessories, notably a handmade bag. His commitment to second-hand clothing can be seen in his choice of a jacket from Barnardo’s and denim sourced from Depop. Lamb underscored the importance of sustainability in fashion, stating, “I am interested in sustainability,” and he drew inspiration from his mother’s unique fashion sense.
The students’ choices in clothing not only illustrate personal style but also highlight a significant cultural movement towards upcycling, zero-waste initiatives, and sustainable fashion. The prominence of second-hand shopping and slow fashion strategies presents a compelling narrative about younger generations prioritising environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic integrity. As St Andrews continues to inspire a blend of tradition and sustainability, the students are paving the way for a fashion future that values style without compromising the planet.
Source: Noah Wire Services
