by Aidan Eller

Spring is right around the corner, bringing in a fresh wave of fashion trends for 2025. This season we can expect Y2K fashion to continue to thrive, with the early 2000s trends making a strong comeback. Chunky athletic shoes from brands like Asics, Retro Nike and New Balance have become a staple for men’s and women’s fashion in the last two years, especially in the college campus setting.

These trends do so well in college settings due to the functionality and look of these athletic shoes and the ability to add flare to even the most basic outfit. Another reason it does so well in this setting is the age demographic. Greensboro College student Sam Swinson said “I love the early 2000’s look because it reminds me of what I grew up wearing, my older cousins wore it as well as other people I looked up to. My mom will see my outfits and tell me how much it reminds her of me growing up. Growing up around that time period honestly makes today feel like being in a time machine.”

The shift from tight-fitted clothing to oversized, baggy silhouettes continues this year. Baggy denim and cargo pants, oversized graphic tees and boxy hoodies have replaced the tight tapered look of the past years. This relaxed and comfortable aesthetic is not just stylish but also practical for a busy campus lifestyle and pairs perfectly with the chunky athletic shoes. Sustainable shopping continues to gain popularity, with secondhand shopping gaining popularity as an eco-friendly and budget-friendly alternative.

Thrift stores and vintage boutiques near campus, such as Standout Vintage and Vintage to Vogue Boutique, offer unique finds while supporting local businesses. Goodwill and the Goodwill Bins provide another great option for students looking to build a distinctive wardrobe without breaking the bank. Junior Griffin Powell had this to say about the Bins, “Whether it is older or newer there is a good selection, and you can search for your own style. I like it personally just because of the thrill of it. You can be searching for a long time and find nothing and then two minutes later pull out a vintage-looking piece or something you have been looking for to add to your wardrobe.” By shopping secondhand, students can help reduce waste as well, minimize the use of new materials and cut down on shipping and packaging pollution.

Another fashion trend that looks to be prominent around campus is the preppy style. From pleated skirts, polo shirts and quarter zips, these clothes give students the opportunity to dress up in their own style. Pairing these pieces with either loafers or sneakers creates the option between classic and casual. Statement accessories are also looking to be in this year, from bold sunglasses and chunky bracelets to colorful bandanas these items look to add personality to a person’s outfit. As spring approaches, keep an eye out for these fashion trends around campus at GC.

Whether you enjoy the Y2K aesthetic, dressed-up preppy look, to the statement pieces – secondhand stores offer a great way to experiment with these styles while staying sustainable. If you find yourself looking to try these new trends in the new season, be sure to check out Greensboro’s local thrift shops and second stores.