Fashion Trends Among Canadian Students


Image by EVG Kowalievska from Pexels

What are some of the most noticeable student fashion trends in Canada now? Whether today's young people are fashionistas or not, they use clothes and accessories for self-expression rather than just practicality and comfort. 


Busy academic schedules require smart yet stylish options that are functional and easy to integrate into the existing wardrobe. After all, you don't have much time to decide what to wear when you study in one of the top 20 universities in Canada and need to manage numerous assignments. 

Canadian students need to be prepared for various weather conditions, whether it's the humid summers of Ontario, the snowy winters of the Prairies, or the rainy coast of British Columbia. Therefore, let's analyze some of the styles dominating campus fashion.

Focus on Jackets

Jackets have become a key expression of personal style for many students because carefully chosen outerwear represents their individuality. Modern students have many options - from sleek bomber jackets paired with distressed denim to cozy oversized parkas layered over chunky knits.

With its sporty yet versatile silhouette, the bomber jacket remains a staple. "I love my bomber jacket because I can wear it with anything," says David, a second-year engineering student. "It's perfect for those in-between days when it's not quite cold enough for a parka." Beyond the classic nylon bomber, we see quilted versions for added warmth, satin bombers for a touch of sophistication, and corduroy bombers for a textured, casual option. One common campus look features a quilted olive bomber paired with high-waisted jeans and chunky sneakers for a casual yet trendy look.


It’s no secret that puffer jackets are necessary for Canadian winters, and students embrace the trend in various forms. Shearling jackets with a cozy and luxurious feel are also a popular choice, ranging from classic aviator styles to more modern cropped versions. 

For warmer months, students choose trench coats of midi or maxi length. While it is an effective way to create an elegant look, it is also a practical choice because you can wear whatever you want underneath it. It is an especially helpful wardrobe piece when you overslept and must get ready in less than 10 minutes. You simply wear whatever you feel like today, knowing that the convenient length of your trench coat will support your fashion choice.


Finally, we have to mention blazers, as they have recently evolved from strictly professional wear to fashionable everyday pieces. "Blazers are so versatile," explains Kelly, a business student. "I can wear one to a presentation or just out with friends." Oversized blazers are often paired with jeans and sneakers for a relaxed yet stylish look, while tailored blazers can be dressed up. A common campus style features an oversized plaid blazer worn over a t-shirt and paired with jeans and sneakers.

Shoe Brand Names Are Important

Even though students have limited budgets, they are ready to invest in shoes and choose classic brands like Nike, Converse, Adidas, New Balance, and Vans. Shoe brand names matter to them, especially regarding trendy releases and collaborations. Chunky sneakers are a popular choice, offering comfort and a trendy, street-style aesthetic. Overall, sneaker culture seems to be at its peak. Crocks with socks are also one of the common choices of the young generation because wearing them is a chance to show everyone you are not too preoccupied with fashion trends but still look cool. 


As to the footwear for colder seasons, biker boots are students’ favorite substitute for last year’s must-have - cowboy boots. "They're stylish and practical, and they go with everything from jeans to skirts," says Nina, a visual studies student. “They add an edgy touch to any outfit and make a loud statement.”


It also seems that combat boots have become the classics that will stay in the fashion world for a long time. However, students must add a pair of waterproof and insulated snow boots to survive harsh winter conditions. They might not be as trendy as combat boots, but they are definitely a necessity.

Investment Pieces vs Fast Fashion Choices

Another obvious trend is that students often divide their wardrobe into two categories:

  1. Investment pieces that are of good quality and will always be in trend.

  2. Fast-fashion items go out of trend very quickly.


Brands like Canada Goose, Arc'teryx, and Patagonia are favored for their high-quality parkas and jackets designed to withstand harsh Canadian winters. Students recognize these as long-term investments that will last for years, justifying the higher upfront cost. High-quality bags from brands like Herschel, Fjällräven, or even some designer brands (often purchased secondhand) are also seen as investments. 


While students are ready to spend more on the first category, there is no point in paying a lot for test pieces from the second category. Trends change quickly, and to keep up with them, students must constantly renew these items. Moreover, fast fashion is losing its influence on the young crowd, as they prefer to avoid overconsumption. Sustainability is another major trend right now.

The Rise of Sustainable Fashion

Sustainability and upcycling are two major priorities for students regarding fashion choices. They have no problem using their parents' or grandparents' closets to discover rare fashion treasures there. On top of that, thrifting and buying secondhand clothing offer students a more affordable and environmentally friendly way to update their wardrobes. 


Students organize clothing swaps on campus and within their communities to give unwanted clothes a second life. It’s a great opportunity to refresh their wardrobes without contributing to new consumption. They are also exploring upcycling and DIY projects, transforming old clothes into new and unique pieces.


Most of the young people we've interviewed for this article believe that using their voices to demand change from the fashion industry is crucial. That is why they are signing petitions and using social media to raise awareness and advocate for more sustainable practices.


When considering where to buy new clothes, students look for brands prioritizing ethical production practices and sustainable materials. There is also a growing demand for clothing made from sustainable materials like organic cotton and innovative eco-friendly fabrics. 

Summing Up

It is safe to say that Canadian students use global trends to create a unique blend of practicality and style that helps them demonstrate their personality. In addition, the increasing focus on sustainability is a clear sign that the young generation pays close attention to environmental protection and makes wise fashion choices whenever possible. 



Author bio:

Mary Roy is a third-year student at the University of Toronto studying Journalism. Passionate about fashion and its role in self-expression, Mary documented the unique style trends among Canadian students after gathering insights from fellow students across the University of Toronto campus.