Retaining your fashion identity

The city of Bristol is notorious for many things, whether that be its diverse theatre, or its endless vintage shops and independent cafes. Though scattered among the streets, lined with Victorian houses, come the thousands of students, who have successfully imprinted a fashion culture that represents us all. From white turned black Adidas superstars, to reams of faux fur and the greatest Abba inspired flares you can find, students in the city of Bristol take pride in making a style statement.

For a newcomer fresher, this fashion climate can be intimidating. There’s a lingering pressure to swap your heels for grubby trainers or your shirts for the same old hoody. As I watched other freshers get ready for our first night out, tying bomber jackets around their waists and sliding Alice bands through their hair; I felt alone.

I ran back to my new room, took off my midi skirt and brushed out the curls I’d spent the past hour mastering. I flung on the ‘edgiest’ outfit I could find in my wardrobe: a black True Religion duo of high waisted leggings and a long sleeve cropped top. A bit better, I thought. I was greeted by my new termed ‘friends’ with a warm reception: ‘Omg I love your style’. This wasn’t my style, but a facade to fit in. I snapped a selfie to my mum. ‘Different’ she said. She was right, and I didn’t like it.

This initial experience made me realise a lot of things. With the power of hindsight, I now look back on my first couple of days in despair. Why was a fashion fanatic desperately trying to camouflage their own taste and sense of self? Style is a personification of personal identity, and a new city’s culture shouldn’t change that.

The second night, I wore my skirt. The next, my leather hot pants, and I felt great. To my lectures, I’ll straighten my hair, do my makeup and wear a pretty top. When meeting a friend in the city, I’ll wear my long black boots and a duster coat. While I’m not against the hippy pants and oversized puffers, as they, to some, are an identity in themselves, I no longer feel a pressure to conform and customize.

With the experience of first year, I have found solutions to circumvent changing my style in the city. I don’t allow myself to buy things I wouldn’t wear. Of course change is good, but the key is comfort. Second, I partially adapt. You still want to wear your dresses out? Not a problem. Either compromise your heels for superstars or go to SWX on the weekend. The Triangle is a hub for dressed down clothing, so make a night of it on Friday nights or Saturdays! Make the most of formal events and join groups whether in the city or society’s provided by your university that celebrates your fashion interests.

Hannah is in her second year studying English and Theatre at The University of Bristol. She’s also the Online Style Editor at Epigram.