Thomas Hardy
When my friends and I are sitting at the cafeteria tables, we love to “people-watch.” We look at the people walking by, see where our friends are sitting, and I especially, keep an eye out for peoples’ outfits. I do not believe that through looking at carbon copies of microtrend aesthetics, one can truly develop a sense of style. Even if you bought all the amazon essentials for the aesthetic that you want to copy, there is no such thing as “curating a vibe.” So instead, I look at the people who express themselves through the art vessel that is fashion (by the way, someone NEEDS to start a fashion club). And my friends and I have noticed some trends in people’s styles, so here is the recipe to achieve and comply with the unofficial Winter Edition of the St. Olaf Uniform.
Grab a top from your favorite national park: Is it Yellowstone? Is it Nerstrand Big Woods, close to campus? Is it just the whole state of Colorado? Bonus points if it’s vintage and embroidered, or has an image of an animal or nature element, such as a lake. Layer a simple light colored shirt underneath, especially if it’s a turtleneck!
Add high-waisted jeans or black leggings: Make sure that those jeans are baggy, and preferably light washed. Your black leggings should be complemented with some white socks, and make sure to put them over your leggings…
Fleece up: Add the most colorful, aggressively ugly fleece you have and throw it on! The fleece is what truly makes the St. Olaf Uniforms come together. Whether it’s a Patagonia color-blocked fleece, or one representing your ensemble or team, the fleece is a must. It adds that relaxed look to your pants or leggings. A crewneck is acceptable as well, so if it’s a vintage crewneck or bookstore merch, you are rocking that uniform.
Do not forget the clogs: Birkenstocks might be the classic, but I have seen incredible variations of these shoes that every Ole has. Layer them with white socks or thick wool socks, especially during the winter. You can accessorize with some ankle bracelets! Other notable shoes include sambas and New Balances.
Stay hydrated: Put your covered-in-stickers Owala, Stanley or Nalgene in a fun backpack so you don’t forget it at Rolvaag! Water bottles are a staple of St. Olaf fashion. Make sure to use them and stay hydrated.
Next time you are out and about, check out who is wearing a variation of the St. Olaf Uniform. Wearing it does not mean you have no style, it probably just means you are staying warm this winter. And always remember: if you do not look like you’re going on a hike later, you are doing something wrong!