In the halls of U-High, where the pursuit of knowledge meets self-discovery, a unique expression of identity goes beyond just academic rigor. Students not only leave a legacy as the academic gladiators they are; their bold, diverse fashion and personality choices transform the commonplace into the extraordinary.
The U-High student body is a self-painted canvas of culture. In the world of education where uniforms and dress codes often dictate attire, U-High has undergone many small transformations over the years with dress code rules becoming increasingly flexible with each passing academic season. But this isn’t just about what the students wear– it’s about how they wear it.
Known for his sweaters and professorial glasses, junior Ben Brown is often seen wearing a lot of pullovers.
“I feel like they show off my fashion preferences in the sense that they are all very practical pieces while also being nice and semi-stylish,” Brown said.
Brown’s fashion choices aren’t always just for looks; his style is also well thought out for his favorite activities.
“I feel like my style is a key component of me as a person and is a mild way of displaying my interests,” Brown said. “For example, I tend to wear a lot of hiking apparel such as Patagonia, North Face, and Eddie Bauer, which expresses my love for hiking and the outdoors.”
With the mix of Brown’s clothes, there comes a wide range of prices and shops.
“It [the price] really depends,” Brown said. “I tend to buy a lot of my sweaters and pants from thrift stores, or Depop. However, when it comes to things like winter coats, rain jackets, or hiking pants, I tend to shop at more pricey outdoor stores.”
Brown also expressed his interest in music and reflects such in his style.
“I look up to a lot of artists and fashion icons when it comes to selecting my style,” Brown said. “For example, I really look up to musical artists such as Bob Dylan and Mick Jagger for their style as I feel like they always look very stylish without being over the top.”
Senior Vivia Rolon describes her style as a mix of formality and darkness with elements of romanticism. This is her way of reflecting her “emphasis on creativity and individuality.” But with her strong image, she seeks to challenge easy assumptions.
“Darker sub-styles of fashion are often associated with mental instability or even cold personalities,” Rolon said. “I just want everyone to know that alternative-dressing people aren’t the source of evil, and oftentimes they are genuine, kind human beings.”
Everyone can learn from Rolon to never judge a book by its cover. Rolon also appreciates the unique side of expression.
“My confidence has skyrocketed since I started dressing uniquely,” Rolon said. “Once I started dressing in different styles, I started to appreciate this distinction as individuality instead of alienation and I’ve felt better about my identity since.”
Another interesting part of Rolon’s style is her influences.
“My style is heavily based on multiple musical genres. My favorite outfits are more 80-90s goth and reflect artists like Bauhaus or Joy Division,” Rolon said. “On other days, my outfits can be more “pinterest-dollette/2014 Tumblr” with musical influence of artists like Lana Del Rey. Even on my lazy days, I try to incorporate baggy pants and leathers with a 90-2000s nu metal influence.”
Rolon’s striking fashion will definitely leave a legacy to future generations.
“I would hope my efforts in dressing up have influenced other students to express themselves as well,” Rolon said. “Also, the fashion industry is a valid career path students may be considering. Adding a fashion program/club could be a great addition in the school.”
Punk rocker, junior Luca Popp explores his personality through his style.
“I like to wear things that affirm my own perception of myself and show others who I am,” Popp said. “For example, I like monsters so I wear tabs from monster cans, and I wear band tees that allow me to express my own interests and show others what bands I like.”
Popp also has many strong fashion influences.
“I’ve been thinking about it and I’m going to settle on Rodrick Heffley. I don’t think I would be who I am today without Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, life-changing stuff,” Popp said. “Also Hobie Brown, aka, Spider Punk. I mean Spiderman: Across the Spider-verse just came out this year so he’s not a foundational influence for me but he deserves an honorable mention at least. Also, David Bowie is iconic.”
Popp also wants to encourage people to explore fashion outwardly.
“Don’t scare yourself out of something good by overcomplicating it,” Popp said. “When it comes to self-expression there is no right or wrong way to do something. The only thing that matters is what makes you feel good about yourself.”
Senior Catherine Steider describes herself as an It-girl with a fluid and ironic sense of fashion.
“It makes me so confident! Being able to wear what I want and looking and feeling my best makes me a lot happier and makes the day a lot easier,” Steider said. “It expresses my individuality by being able to doll myself up to be my most comfortable self. I don’t wear things that don’t make me feel confident or boost my secureness in my personality.”
Steider has found her style doesn’t need to break the bank either.
“My mom buys me clothes from Primark. She gets them for super cheap because she buys them when she goes on trips in Europe [as a flight attendant],” Steider said. “I’ve gotten some of my favorite T-shirts from my uncle. But I like shopping at Ross, Goodwill, and Bromenn Thrift.”
Steider finds community and friendship through thrifting and fashion.
“I love meeting people who go to the same thrift stores I do,” Steider said. “It makes me feel more connected but in a way that isn’t super mainstream.”
This story contains more personal histories than mere fashion choices. Brown’s appreciation of the great outdoors and musical icons is reflected in his blend of affordability and quality. In addition to supporting bold fashions, Rolon not only embraces striking styles but also advocates against stereotypes. Popp promotes self-expression that is honest and true. Steider demonstrates that style doesn’t have to be expensive.
“Over-dressing doesn’t exist! One of the biggest reasons people are hesitant to dress up is because over-dressing is seen as fearsome due to possible bullying or criticisms,” Rolon said. “I can say that dressing uniquely gains infinitely more compliments than criticisms.”
