BU's Fashion by Decade

Your Decade-Style Go-To, According To Your School

College of Arts and Sciences

In a school with such diverse majors, students are incredibly versatile. Looking at the history of fashion, there is one decade that stands out for its diversity––the 1990s! From quirky denim-sweater combos to grungy slips and slingbacks, this decade had something for everyone.

School of Education

SED kids spend a lot of time in the classroom, which is why the 1950s high school look of poodle skirts, polka dots and flared-glasses is the best fit! Think Grease––Sandy’s sweetheart style for class and an edgy look for the weekend.

Sargent College

The students of Sargent are totally ‘80s! With athletic apparel being all the rage, SAR students can turn to the decade’s staples for the perfect class-to-gym look.

Questrom School of Business

The ever-so-put-together students of Questrom undoubtedly resemble the 1930s. The decade’s staples––well-tailored suits, side hats, bateau necklines, structured shoulders and defined waistlines––are the perfect inspiration for both business-professional and business-casual looks.

School of Hospitality

SHA students go the extra mile to make sure they are as hospitable as they can be. Think Gatsby in the 1920s––flashy and fun, much like the fashion of the time: flapper dresses, beaded headbands, feather hats and suspenders!

College of Engineering

Engineering students are meticulous and practical, which is why they embody the 1940s wartime trends: military style, collars, trench coats and peacoats!

College of Communication

Known for bold personalities and non-conformist attitudes, COM students epitomize the fashion from the ‘70s. The counterculture movement dictated the decade’s free-spirited styles. Similarly, the outspoken students of COM never hesitate to express themselves.

College of General Studies

Much like the styles of the 2000s, CGS students are “laid back and easy going,” says Kavya Raghunathan (CAS ‘18). From tracksuits to tiedye t-shirts, early 2000s trends are easy go-tos for chill, everyday looks.

College of Fine Arts

CFA students are artists by definition. They pay close attention to detail, much like the fashion from the Victorian Age, which was full of elegant lace, beading and micro-details!

By Falaknaz Chranya | Illustrations by Samantha West | Design by Chloe Guo