The St Andrews Style

The essence of St Andrews style draws heavily from its surroundings. Think weathered cobblestone streets, sea-salted breezes, and centuries-old stone buildings. Naturally, the fashion here favors layered textures and time-tested classics. Tweed blazers, waxed Barbour jackets, fisherman knits, and wool scarves are not just aesthetic choices; they’re practical nods to the Scottish climate.

Tailoring plays a key role. Slim, well-cut trousers, pleated skirts, and structured coats create silhouettes that feel both classic and current. There’s often a nod to the university’s academic roots—oversized cable-knit jumpers thrown over crisp shirts, or collegiate crests peeking out from beneath tailored outerwear.

Students, locals, and visitors alike lean into a style that blends preppy influences with rugged outdoor functionality. It’s not uncommon to see Hunter boots paired with a herringbone coat, or  cashmere sweaters teamed with oxfords and chinos. There’s a fluidity to the mix. Oxford shirts worn untucked under vintage cardigans, or slouchy trousers paired with polished loafers.

In this blog, I decided to interview a couple of my favorite fashion icons at St Andrews, and ask what the St Andrews style is to them.

Emily Sturt expressed that “St Andrews style is a mix of vintage gems from charity shops and vinted finds, mixed with European, effortless kind of chic. Everyone is put together but it never seems overdone. Also I think since there are so many students from around the world, each student brings their own background into what they wear, which makes St Andrews feel unique fashion wise.” 

Next I spoke to Pippa Ashworth, Head of Concrete Catwalk’s Social Media Team. Pippa said that  “St. Andrews fashion is about trying new things and not being afraid to wear something different and never seen before. The atmosphere in St. Andrews makes it feel like there is a safe space to represent your style and experiment with trends you are into. From fun footwear to different head accessories, you can find almost everything being worn in St Andrews.” Here Pippa is wearing a linen black tank top, with a pair of blue jeans, embodying the casual yet elegant vibe of the st andrews style. A simple yet timeless look.

Finally, I spoke to Arrieta Abecia. Arrieta said that “To me, St Andrews fashion is where you learn that no outfit is complete without a scarf and a coffee cup. Also, at St Andrews, every street is a runway and every outfit is an audition for the next student fashion show. There’s a quiet superiority to St Andrews style. Not flashy, just timeless, self assured, and slightly intimidating” Arrieta is seen wearing a pair of denim bootcut jeans, a blue and white striped fitted shirt to embrace the sunny weather, accessorized with some gold jewelry, a brown leather belt, and a pair of nude suede boots. 

Here is Emily Johnston, with a featured detail shot of her white linen top, detailed with three tie bows down the center of the shirt. Emily has paired her outfit with a lightweight and colorful scarf to ensure there’s a pop of color in her outfit, as well as making sure she stays warm when the occasional breeze blows through St Andrews.

All these quotes express the way in which St Andrews university is a fashion hub, constantly  welcoming all forms of fashion at the highest calibre. Everyone is always dressed their best, and Arrieta is right, it can be very intimidating. Coming from California and having that very laid back, summer fashion vibe, I felt really out of place when I first got here. When you walk down Market Street you don’t just see jeans and a top, you see a unique and personal addition to people’s wardrobe staples. Whether it’s a special stitching or cut on jeans, lace or mesh added to a top to make it stand out, never ending accessories to provide some flair, or a vintage scarf to keep you warm while staying stylish - it can be a lot to take in. However, the best part of St Andrews fashion is that everyone recognizes that everybody has their own personality through their outfits. There is no “set” binary that people have to follow. You can always wear what makes you feel best and people will respect that.

St Andrews style isn’t just about flash. It’s about investing in pieces, embracing your surroundings, and layering thoughtfully. It’s a sartorial love letter to tradition, reinterpreted through the eyes of a new generation. 

So whether you’re walking by the pier on a misty morning or heading to a lecture in the shadow of a medieval cathedral, the St Andrews wardrobe promises timeless elegance, with just the right touch of rebellion.

Photography by Cecilia Ryan