Spring Break Style — Rouge Magazine

When UGA Gives Students Spring Break, We Give It Sexy Outfits

Spring Break has come a long way since its humble beginnings. In 1932, Colgate University swim coach Sam Ingram arranged for his team to train at a beach in South Florida. It wasn’t until three decades later that it became a U.S. cultural phenomenon. Thank you, Unholy Spirit by Professor Glendon Swarthout, for capturing students partying in Fort Lauderdale during Easter vacation because without it—it may not have existed. This inspired the movie Where the Boys Are, which shows college students enjoying a week-long break in the city.

Fast forward to today, and Spring Break is not only about sunshine, tans and beaches, but has also evolved into something nostalgic—full of faded memories, questionable decisions, and, my personal favorite, jaw-dropping outfits. Whether you’re living your best Adam Sandler life, channeling Carrie Bradshaw in search of a Big (God, let’s hope not!), or embodying Sophie from Mamma Mia, Spring Break style doesn’t have to be defined by mediocre fits.

Beach Destinations

Maximalism? In. Minimalism? Also in. The once-presumptuous debate between maximalism and minimalism has evolved beyond traditional trends heading into Spring 2025. Both styles are spectacular but tend to be idealized, criticized, or praised based on who is wearing the outfit. Terms like “trashy” or “unclassy” are often directed at people of color but are seldom applied to those fitting traditional white beauty standards. These beauty standards continue to dominate, even as the presence of prominent POC influencers rises such as Wisdom Kaye and Garbo Zhu.

However, the focus should shift to personal style and individual influences, allowing everyone to create their own unique aesthetic through deliberate choices. As always, fashion critics continue to debate which trends will shape both maximalism and minimalism moving forward.

This is a guide for creating an inclusive fashion sense, helping you look beautiful or handsome with no discrimination.

SPRING 2025 FASHION TRENDS:

Women’s Spring 2025 trends: sheer, layering, mixed patterns, funky textures, checks and balances, soft pastels, pistachio green, wedges

Men’s Spring 2025 trends: inverted tailoring, sheer fabrics, refined classics, midriffs, crops, pins, sheer, cardigans, rough rings

Before heading into the outfit inspiration, remember that nothing should be off-limits when it comes to style. However, it is crucial to consider your skin tone, undertone, body shape and height when shopping for clothes or styling outfits. Undertones are important not only for makeup but plays a role in choosing the right colors to complement your natural features. I know we have all doom scrolled on TikTok of influencers traveling to local korean people that specialize on finding the perfect skin tone for you. While I am not suggesting you limit yourself to a specific color palette, being mindful of your undertone can help you choose pieces that will enhance your overall beauty.

There are three main categories of undertone: warm, cool and neutral. Traditionally people with warm undertones tend to look best in earthy colors like browns, oranges and yellows. Cool undertone compliment with jewel colors such as purples, blues and pinks. On the other hand, neutral undertones are versatile and can wear a wide range of colors from both warm and cool palettes. By comparing your undertone with influencers with similar features, this will continue to make you feel inspired when looking for what can work for you. This is just one example. Your personal style should be based on your preferences and what makes you feel confidence. On TikTok, there has been a growing trend for spreading awareness on how to determine what compliments your figure based on different body shapes, including tips for both men and women.

Beach Destinations:
WOMEN: For beachwear, why not embrace some fun textures? A textured cover-up paired with playful accessories such as pins, colorful earrings, and wedges can bring a fresh, elegant energy to beachwear. Despite mixed opinions, wedges are making a comeback and becoming a popular choice for beachwear, from sandal styles to heeled options. But, in my opinion, they were never truly out of style.

For a post-beach vibe, you can wear a maxi skirt (yes, I know it has been overdone on the internet) or for a fringe miniskirt. I know, it’s hard to resist the lure of maxis, but trust me on this one. Pair pastel tights with a short fringe skirt and a sheer top for a bold, layered look. If you’re feeling sporty, jogger pants with an oversized tee offer an effortlessly cool vibe.

MEN: According to Vogue, simple silhouettes and waistband pieces are making a strong comeback. If you’re heading out for a nighttime beach stroll, try pairing tailored trousers with a button-up/sheer shirt or opt for a jacket that boasts intricate tailoring for a sophisticated look.

STAY-AT HOME CHIC:

WOMEN: While not everyone can jet off on an international getaway, many of us find comfort in binge-watching Abbott Elementary or tackling everyday errands like grocery shopping. Yet, this routine still calls for a reevaluation of comfort wear and an end to the epidemic of plain athleisure. Rather, it creates an opportunity to refine athleisure into a more purposeful style. It’s time to switch out the usual LuluLemon staples for a two-piece set perfect for on the go. Crochet and lounge sets are gaining popularity because they blend comfort, style, and versatility. Who knows? Maybe two-piece crochet sets are the new LuluLemons. If you are still hesitant to throw out athleisure, try pairing leggings or athletic shorts with a basic tee and layering o a blazer for a laid-back look.

MEN: This season, slouchier pants are the ultimate wardrobe staple. Beanies are not only for cold weather but also an accessory that adds texture and contrast to a look. Pair them with a cozy cardigan, baggy sweatpants that gradually flare outward at the bottom, a beanie with decorative pins, and classic sneakers for an effortlessly stylish outfit. Minimal effort doesn’t have to mean minimal style.

CITY ESCAPES:

Women: Checks and balances are on the rise, appearing in gingham, plaids, and checked patterns. Recently, they have been predominantly seen in red and white—and I’ll admit, I’m guilty of having them in my own closet too. But it’s an intricate pattern to incorporate in different colors to offer uniqueness and variety. They are often paired with unexpected elements for fun, clean, or retro-style looks. For a laid-back look, lean into soft blush tones, light makeup, and playful feminine accessories like oversized hats or dainty jewelry. If you’re feeling edgier, go bold with your makeup, adding chunky boots, leather accents, and bold heels. Layering is a trend on the rise for spring. We are seeing this with the emphasis on skirts or dresses over jeans, leggings, or dresses over dresses. While it might not be your go-to, consider trying it with this print.

Men: Hear me loud and clear: Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! Accessories are a game changer when it comes to completing an outfit, and rings in particular—we need more of them because frankly, they look sexy. Rings are not only for special occasions, but well-placed rings take an outfit from a five to a ten. Pair crisp, raw denim with an oversized shoulder bag. You can wear traditional clean-cut denim with midriffs or sleeveless tops.

If you’re in the mood to experiment with creative hacks from items already in your wardrobe, try this bandana hack. Created by influencer Vusrule, he styled his jeans by folding a bandana into a bow and looping it through the front belt loop of his jeans. While it may not complement every look, it’s a fun refresh for a city vibe. Complete the look with a sleek crossbody bag to keep it functional, and you’re all set.

I am far from a fashion influencer or stylist, and I sometimes struggle with finding statement pieces that compliment my own body. But, I do know Spring Break is about embracing your own personality and creating outfits that make you look and feel amazing.

References

Criales-Unzueta, J. (2025, January 6). Ahead of the fall 2025 shows, revisit the Spring 2025 menswear trends that matter. Vogue. https://www.vogue.com/article/spring-2025-menswear-trend-report

Donohue, M. (2025, February 18). The 5 hottest shoe trends, according to our Spring Trend Report. Elle.com. https://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/a62138543/spring-2025-shoe-trends/

Madeline Fass, T. A. (2025, February 15). The Top Spring/Summer 2025 fashion trends you can shop and Wear now. Vogue. https://www.vogue.com/article/spring-2025-fashion-trends

Ortiz, G. (2025, February 12). The 16 biggest style trends of 2025, according to GQ staffers. GQ. https://www.gq.com/story/mens-fashion-trends-predictions-2025

Ridley, I. (2023, July 21). Unlocking the power of colour: Dressing for your skin tone. Lavender Hill Clothing. https://www.lavenderhillclothing.com/en-us/blogs/lavenderhilllife/unlocking-the-power-of-colour-dressing-for-your-skin-tone?srsltid=AfmBOop3dWYiyW6cG8keNLb1LnIFzVcsZoXm8e5aAfW0GcdTqfIYKlJF

Smith, J. H. (2025, February 7). 10 spring fashion trends you’re about to see everywhere. Glamour. https://www.glamour.com/story/2025-fashion-trends

What is the origin of the popular “Spring break” vacations in the U.S. and why Miami Beach and other Florida cities no longer want this type of tourism. (2024, March 14). ContentEngine Noticias Financieras (English).

Graphic by Landry Allen