Adidas Sambas are one of the most popular shoes among RHS students this year! (Photo by CNN)
A look into the latest trends to hit RHS.
By Sophia Chen and Waverly Noah
As Ridgewood High School students hit the books and the school bells ring again, they are not only focusing on academics—they’re preparing to show off their style. The beginning of the school year presents the perfect opportunity for students to express themselves through fashion and accessories, and this year is no exception. The fall trends of 2024 reflect a mix of comfort and style. Several standout trends have already emerged as favorites among the student body, giving them the chance to blend functionality with flair.
One of the most popular footwear brands this year is Adidas, with models like the Samba, Gazelle, and Campus leading the way. These shoes offer a nostalgic yet stylish look, combining retro design with modern comfort. Available in various colorways, they pair effortlessly with outfits ranging from oversized hoodies to denim skirts, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. The shoes’ durability ensures they can withstand long school days from the first bell to late afternoon workouts. Adidas’ collaborations with influencers and celebrities have also fueled the brand’s popularity, with TikTok trends like the viral hashtag “Campus00s” boosting their appeal. The combination of style, service, and social media buzz has made Adidas a go-to choice for shoes at RHS this year.
Meanwhile, as the school year goes on, another footwear brand is giving Adidas a run for its money. There’s no surprise that UGG slippers and boots have become ubiquitous around the school. Models like the Classic and Tasman provide maximum comfort throughout the school day. Influencers have promoted UGGs on social media, showing how they can be dressed up or down and paired with a variety of outfits. For example, Bella Hadid’s unconventional styling of mini-platform UGGs of TikTok created a viral moment that helped make the boots a fashion statement. The EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) soles provide comfortable cushioning and support for all-day wear. Available in various shades, these slippers and boots pair perfectly with sweatpants, pajama pants, and jeans, making them ideal for keeping warm in class during fall. These slippers can easily become your go-to footwear; that is, of course, if you don’t have a run day in gym class!
Denim is another key trend dominating high school fashion in 2024. From the sizzling summer days to the crisp autumn air, denim has held a prominent place on the RHS campus, evolving with the seasons. In the initial weeks of school, denim shorts and skirts took center stage, with standout pieces like the Pacsun Bella Light Indigo Denim Skirt gaining traction among girls. It is known for its flattering cuts and light color that pairs well with a summer tan. As the temperatures drop, long jeans are making their way back into the spotlight. The cool autumn air calls for more coverage and warmth, and jeans offer the perfect balance of comfort and style. Jeans fit effortlessly with cozy sweaters, UGG boots, and jackets. Popular brands like Levi’s, Garage, Pacsun, and American Eagle are easy to spot in the hallways, making denim a staple in the RHS wardrobe.
Freshman Tijler Westdijk says that “one trend [he] noticed recently is people wearing Overtime hoodies.” It is no surprise that the students of RHS have been shifting towards warm and comfortable clothing with more layers as the year goes on. Additionally, Tijler predicts that “more athletic clothing like sweatpants and windbreakers” will soon become more common at RHS. This is definitely a valid prediction as sweatshirts and sweatpants have been appearing more in every class. Sweats are simple, providing students with the comfort and warmth they need to get through the colder months to come.
Furthermore, sophomore Aditya Tiwari has been noticing new hair trends pop up around the halls of RHS, stating that “[he’s] seen the ‘ice cream scoop’ hair and the buzz cut.” There is no doubt that different hairstyles have begun to increase in popularity along with different clothing styles and accessories. He adds that “hanging out at Walgreens” has also been common, as the open campus at RHS allows students to have the opportunity to walk to town to enjoy their free period. Leaving the Ridgewood High School campus for places like Walgreens, Starbucks, and Playa Bowls is a great hiatus for students as it allows them to socialize and relieve stress in the middle of a long school day. Finally, Aditya has mentioned that social media doesn’t influence what he wears “at all” and he does not feel peer pressured to follow school trends. It seems that expressing yourself as an individual is a trend itself among some students at RHS.
Another notable trend is the rise of Owala water bottles. This water bottle comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, and, of course, colors, allowing students to express themselves by getting the design that best suits them. The unique design includes a mouthpiece split into two sections, allowing you to choose to either sip through a straw or chug the water through a larger opening to stay hydrated during the sports season. Additionally, having a reusable Owala bottle instead of single-use plastic bottles reduces plastic waste, making the Owala eco-friendly. Also promoted by influencers, fitness enthusiasts, and eco-conscious advocates, the water bottle has grown in popularity as a must-have accessory both online and in real life.
Social media continues to be a powerful influence on student fashion at RHS, but many students are mindful of how they incorporate online trends into what they buy and wear. One senior, Maria Orozco, shared that “Social media definitely influences my style a bit, but I try not to buy things impulsively. I only buy it if I really like the clothes and if I think they are going to last for at least more than a year; not just for a season.” Additionally, freshman Geon Rhee stated that “social media influences what [he] wears. [He] often notices that trends start from celebrities who have lots of followers on social media.”
Finally, Tijler adds that “social media might subconsciously make [him] buy something, but [he’s] never gotten anything just because he saw it in a video/movie…peer pressure doesn’t affect what [he] wears, as [he] usually just wears things that are comfortable.” Platforms like TikTok and Pinterest provide endless inspiration, but many students prefer to take bits of influence while maintaining their individuality. Social media serves as a guide, but ultimately students choose pieces that reflect their own personalities.
As the new school year unfolds, Ridgewood High School students are making exciting style choices. From Adidas shoes to UGGs to Owala water bottles, their fashion aligns with both comfort and self-expression. Meanwhile, social media plays a huge role in dictating the trends, yet students take matters into their own hands by adding their own twist to these trends. In Ridgewood, fashion is about more than looking good; it’s about expressing yourself in an authentic, confident and comfortable way. Regardless of the season, one thing is for sure: the students of Ridgewood High School are not just following trends, they are setting them.