Being almost front row for the final varsity game of the season offered so much more than just a view for the rugby. The symbiosis of game and runway was invigorating as a constant flow of tipsy, stylish students went to and from the bar as the gripping match played out. Of course, congratulations are in order for Newcastle University’s unbeatable women’s and men’s rugby union teams, continuing to take home the trophy for another winning year.
However, for me, the occasion offered so much more than a game of rugby, but also to see what the girls and guys of Newcastle had chosen to flaunt. All with an eye fashion inspo, my friends and I observed many a trend, style and more, in the passing Newcastle and Northumbria supporters. And so, I have chosen to rename, redefine, the trudge from the stalls to the bar as the strut of The Varsity Catwalk.
I have chosen to rename, redefine, the trudge from the stalls to the bar as the strut of The Varsity Catwalk.
I will admit, the men of the crowd were not my primary focus. Of course, I’ve got to give a nod to the cult of Uni of rugby union blazers, overwhelming the scene with their red, blue, and white stripes. Other than this, I’m afraid this piece is really a female focused tribute. So, let’s get to it!
To begin, take a shot if you see a black trench! The uniform of a North-East uni student, of course, must consist of a trench coat to protect against the cold conditions. Or, in other cases, worn with the waist ties in a loose bow at the back to reveal the, probably, linen pants and floaty blouse underneath. A black trench is such a staple to any wardrobe, no wonder every girl in Jesmond has caught on. Another popular choice, and equally as much of a wardrobe necessity, was a cropped trench. A special shout out to the sea of khaki green cropped trenches in the crowd! To finish with outer-wear, I’d like to give an honourable mention to the resurgence of double denim. Mismatched or perfectly paired, I am one of the many who are in awe of those who can pull off and master an accessorised, styled double denim look. The varsity catwalk, too, showcased this trend to the max, made for the transition from winter into spring.
Just to throw another one into the mix, my absolute favourite jacket I saw at varsity was an amber suede bomber. Never have I ever seen such a gorgeous piece. The girl’s pairing with chunky gold jewellery and dark navy jeans completed the look. Congratulations, I am in awe.
Onto accessories. As my friend articulated perfectly, “Look at that claw clip that’s doing absolutely nothing. Love that!” The shift from the clean girl slick back to the loose, bouncy blow out could not be missed. Clipping hair back carelessly in a half-up half-down style was my favourite hairstyle of the evening, giving off the ultimate model-off duty image.
The shift from the clean girl slick back to the loose, bouncy blow out could not be missed.
Secondly, and maybe controversially, I loved to see girls wearing baker-boy caps. Bringing this trend out of the winter months and into spring is definitely a movement I want to see, adding such a classy element to any outfit and showing an admirable level of confidence. An unnecessary scary stigma has been placed on the wearing of hats, but this has made it even more commendable when someone decides to. Taking the races attire out of the occasion was another image that must be given praise to. Girls in knee high boots paraded across the catwalk with flawless confidence; the sound of heels really is the sound of success- in this case, the sound of a successful outfit.
I think it would be rude not to give recognition to the most glamorous of cheerleaders. Both Newcastle and Northumbria girls sparkled and beamed throughout their routine in the most beautiful leotards. Dare I say the stars of the show? Just mesmerising.
I’d love to say I was too immersed in the game to notice anything other than the rip-roaring sport taking place before my eyes. But my fashion spidey sense took over and instead the game ground transformed into a catwalk for the fans.