Denver’s Auraria campus isn’t just a hub for academia: it’s a runway of self-expression. As students from the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University, and Community College of Denver rush to class, their outfits tell a story of individuality and trendsetting style. Oversized thrifted jackets, perfectly broken-in sneakers, sleek athleisure and vintage band tees are just some examples of where creativity meets Rocky Mountain practicality.
So, what’s defining campus fashion this semester? Let’s take a look at the styles turning heads in the Mile High City.
Our Favorite Student Fashion From Denver’s Auraria Campus
The heart of campus known as the Tivoli quad is a hotspot for student activity, whether waiting for classes or studying and grabbing some lunch.
To get a closer look at the styles shaping the campuses, I took to the walkways, student lounges, and coffee lines, chatting with students about their fashion inspiration and capturing the bold patterns, layered textures and signature accessories that make campus fashion so dynamic.
READ: The Best Places to Shop for Men’s Accessories in Denver
From effortlessly cool thrifted looks to carefully curated streetwear, everyone had a unique take on personal style. Here’s what they had to say about their looks—and how Denver’s student style is making a statement this season.
The cold day never stopped these students from shining, but when asked if their outfits were inspired by the weather I was met with surprising feedback. The first student I met was named Trey. Trey dressed in a rainbow “I am Kenough” fleece hoodie and veterans camouflage pants. “Today I want to be cozy and confident and that’s kind of my goal everyday, I wore this hoodie because I know I am Kenough,” said Trey.
The bold colors and pattern really made this look give an aura of comfortability and being yourself. But, standing out is not always about bold letters and colors but how the person wearing them shines.
Grey combat platform boots drew us to a second student, Diego. Complementing the boots with beautiful gems on their face, Diego’s look was one for the books.
“I always have a focal point for each of my outfits,” said Diego. When asked about where they get their clothing they responded with “I honestly do all of the above, thrifting and shopping from local stores as well as big brands. Honestly if it screams ‘that’s me’ I want it in my closet.”.
This pair wore the perfect combo of street-fashion meets academics. River Price layered a business-adjacent look for the chilly weather. Price loves to balance masculine clothing with feminine details, like bright colors and creative makeup.
“I usually thrift my clothing, and I actually got my boots from a buy-sell trade place called Strawberry Mountain,” said Price. “Clothing makes you who you are, no matter what style you take on.”
While her black takeout box purse was the initial detail that drew us in, Kitty’s full look deserved its time in the spotlight. Kitty’s warm orange coat elevated the look beyond just the typical casual campus wear, contrasting stylishly with her baby pink hair.
Kitty was inspired by the weather and a desire to be comfortable. Despite waking up late, she still managed to wear something colorful and eye catching.
While chatting with 303 Magazine, Kitty shared her own style secret: generational wealth that comes not from money but from prized possessions passed down from loved ones. “I want to do more local shopping, but I do own a lot of hand-me-downs from family,” Kitty shared.
The last Denver student we spoke too wore more neutral colors, with the tans and blacks in their clothing making their purple shoe laces stand out. Clare’s black lipstick drew this look from classic to dark academia.
Clare loves the cold weather and has used it as inspiration for their own signature look. “I almost always wear something like this,” Clare noted. “It’s comfortable, and it makes me feel unique.”
Our trip to Auraria Campus made one thing clear: Denver’s students are leading the charge into a new fashion era.
All photography by Andy Thomas.
