In the 1980s, college students rocked out with fanny packs, bright patterns and scrunchies. In the 2000s, low-wasted jeans and baby tees were lighting up college campuses across America. Now it is 2026, and the question everyone wants to know is “what is in style on the IU Indianapolis campus for 2026?”
Vogue predicts that skinny jeans will be trending, as apparently 2026 is the new 2016. This anticipated trend revival of tight-fitted pants is unlikely, as the majority of Generation Z on campus can be seen sporting baggy jeans and sweatpants daily.
Vogue also foresees a rise in slip dresses, ballet flats and skinny scarves. These predictions give great insight into what high fashion trends will be on the rise during these upcoming months, but again, these are just predictions.
So, what are IU Indianapolis students actually wearing now, and what will they be wearing once cold weather subsides?
On campus, there are emerging trends visible to the naked eye. Matching sweat sets are customary for female students walking to class, and it's pretty obvious that the male student population loves a baggy jean and hoodie combo. Puffer jackets also seem to be a fan favorite, spotted on a majority of students as they walk to class during the recent harsh cold, rain and wind.
It’s worth reinforcing that an outfit can always be enhanced by the accessories added afterward. The accessories that are visible on local students have a wide range. The most noticeable ones are headphones, necklaces, tote bags and the unforgettable matcha or iced coffee from any coffee or drink shops in this area.
Yes, a drink can be a part of an outfit, just look at the majority of the outfit inspirations on Pinterest.
While using eyesight is a great way to gather insight about fashion trends, it is even better to get information from the actual students wearing these items of clothing.
When asked about fashion, Charlie Gray, a freshman pursuing a career in secondary education and theater, had some great insight.
“I feel like we're probably going to continue with baby tees and the lowest denim shorts possible,” said Gray about predicted fashion trends.
Arianna Poellot, a freshman at Kelly, is proclaimed as fashion-forward and is always seen rocking business chic clothing on campus. For 2026 fashion trends, she sees a modern/minimalist take, which she attributes to “Love Story,” a TV series based on John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. Bessette's style was very '90s minimalism.
Through she dresses more professional during the school year, Poellot’s style changes up a bit each season. In the summer, Poellot likes to incorporate Y2K staples into her closet. Y2K style has also made a comeback recently. Baby t-shirts and low-rise bottoms, pioneered by Hollywood icons Megan Fox and Christina Aguilera during the early 2000s, are seeping back into mainstream fashion.
“For me, it depends,” said Poellot. “In summer I'll definitely dress in a bunch of Y2K baby tops, or just flowy tops in general. For fall and winter, it'll probably be more business chic.”
Jazlyn Duong, a freshman studying neuroscience, has a more mainstream perspective on fashion.
“I feel like athletic wear will be popular again,” said Duong. “Especially matching sets. I also think another print will be popular because last year, polka dots were very popular.”
Duong also thinks big statement jewelry pieces are in for 2026.
“For this summer, I see a lot of Bangles or bulky jewelry, said Duong. “Such as rings and earrings. I also think statement necklaces are really popular right now.”
These accounts give the IU Indianapolis students a great idea of what will be popular during 2026, but even though fashion trends always change, students should be themselves. Just because Crocs with socks, neon colors, or tiger print are not in style, that should not stop anyone from wearing these articles of clothing. At the end of the day, being an individual and true to personal styles is a trend in itself.
Raegan Nelson is a freshman studying psychology in hopes of becoming an art therapist in the future. She is passionate about the arts, literature and psychological issues in the past and present. In her free time, she loves to paint, draw, read or watch horror movies.
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