In recent years, luxury brands have become extremely popular among college students. Whether it’s as an investment, for pleasure, or to show off on social media, there’s no denying that many students are wearing luxury goods around campus.
Although many college students are focused on their studies in college, many guys and girls are fascinated with these luxury items. In fact, I was always into designer shoes, clothing, and bags throughout my time in college.
In this post, we explore the best luxury brands for college students and affordable designer brands for students. I also share the benefits of purchasing designer items from luxury brands and how college students can afford luxury products.
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Best Luxury Brands For College Students
Here are the five best luxury brands for college students. These popular brands are staples in the fashion industry and are huge on college campuses across North America.
1. Gucci
Gucci is an iconic Italian fashion brand that college students love. Whether it’s sneakers, belts, handbags, wallets, or other items, Gucci can be found on students all over campus.
Gucci is a great place to start if you’re a college student looking to invest in a luxury brand. Gucci carries various products, and they have many timeless styles.
As a college student, it’s normal not to have a ton of disposable income. This is why it is so important to make smart purchases when it comes to designer items.
For instance, when I was in college, I purchased a pair of Gucci Ace Sneakers. These sneakers were very expensive, especially for a college student working part-time. However, my investment paid off, as the same pair of shoes is nearly double the price now!
At the time, I had no idea that my pair of Gucci shoes would actually gain value over time. However, I did know that Gucci is a timeless brand and that my shoes would not go out of style anytime soon.
2. Louis Vuitton
Right now, Louis Vuitton is one of the top brands among college students. Since the French luxury brand was founded in 1854, Louis Vuitton has built a very positive reputation in the fashion world.
Their handbags are extremely popular among girls in college, and the iconic brand is a staple in the fashion industry. If you scroll on TikTok, you will see many Gen Z girls wearing Louis Vuitton handbags with their outfits.
Although expensive, purchasing designer items from Louis Vuitton is an investment. Louis Vuitton is a timeless brand, so your purchase will always have value.
The signature LV monogram is one of the most recognizable designs in fashion. Therefore, when you walk around campus with an item from Louis Vuitton, you will make a statement.
Whether it’s a belt, wallet, clutch, or handbag, Louis Vuitton is a great brand for college students who like designer items. Their products are well made, so you can rely on them to stand the test of time.
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3. Christian Dior
Christian Dior is a designer brand that is known for its timeless elegance. While college students are typically drawn to trends, Christian Dior offers class and well-designed luxury items that will elevate any college wardrobe.
Purchasing luxury items from a brand like Dior is a great way to celebrate an achievement. Whether you have reached an academic goal or you’re graduating, purchasing an item from Dior is a great way to reward yourself.
Shopping at a Dior boutique offers an enhanced retail experience. The customer service, attention to detail, and ambiance at a Dior store create a memorable shopping experience that is enjoyable for college students.
Typically, items from Dior have a higher price point. However, they make for great investments. If you’re a college student looking to make a smart luxury purchase, then check out what Christian Dior has to offer.
Related: Is it Worth Buying Designer? Clothes, Bags & Accessories
4. Chanel
If you’ve got an internship or interview or simply want to look polished, Chanel will take your outfit to the next level. As a college student, adding a Chanel handbag or accessories to your outfit will truly enhance your personal style.
Owning a Chanel bag makes a statement, especially the classic flap. When you put on the Chanel flap bag, you are wearing a piece of fashion history.
Although luxury items from Chanel are very expensive, many products keep their value and are piece you’ll keep for years. If you buy the right item, it may gain value over time, making it a great purchase!
5. Prada
Prada has a sleek and modern style that will instantly level up your fashion game. Whether you’re walking around campus or going for a night out, Prada’s designs bring a cool and modern style to your outfit.
When it comes to innovative designs, Prada is known for pushing the envelope. If you’re into fashion that’s unique and will have you standing out from the other students, then check out what Prada has to offer.
Prada has been in the fashion game since 1913, and there’s something cool about wearing a brand with a rich history. Whether it’s a pair of designer shoes or a luxury handbag, you are wearing fashion legacy every time you wear an item from Prada.
Honourable Mentions – Trendy Designer Luxury Brands
The honorable mentions listed below are luxury brands college students are currently wearing. However, just because these brands are trendy right now, it doesn’t mean they will sustain this hype forever.
As we’ve seen with streetwear brands like Supreme and Off-White, trendy brands come and go. As styles change and evolve, consumer tastes tend to change.
However, these brands are huge right now, so if you’re trying to keep up with the new styles, check these brands out.
Golden Goose
Right now, Golden Goose is one of the trendiest designer sneaker brands among college students. Golden Goose shoes have a super distinct look, and Millennials and Gen Zers love them!
If you’ve never shopped at Golden Goose, you may get caught off guard by the distressed and worn-in aesthetic. However, this lived-in look is what makes the shoes so likable.
If you’re interested in buying a pair of trendy designer shoes, then check out Golden Goose!
Related: How to Maintain Designer Shoes and Make Them Last Longer
Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs is an accessible luxury brand that is trendy among college girls. “The Tote Bag” by Marc Jacobs is one of the most popular handbags on campus, as it has a simple look, making it very versatile.
If you’re a college girl looking for a handbag in the $200 to $300 range, check out Marc Jacobs!
Related: 50 Unique Gifts College Girls Will Love
Alexander McQueen
The Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker is one of the most popular shoes right now. This sneaker has that distinct oversized look, making it the focal point of any college students outfit.
These unisex shoes are popular among college guys and girls, and they are currently trending on TikTok and Instagram. If you’re a college student looking for a sleek pair of designer sneakers, then check out what Alexander McQueen has to offer!
Affordable Luxury Brands for College Students
As a college student, it can be hard to afford high-fashion clothing brands and designer brands. However, affordable luxury brands provide high-quality and stylish clothing at more reasonable prices.
1. Coach
Coach is an affordable luxury brand known for its timeless designs and classic styles. Whether it’s a handbag, accessories, or a backpack, Coach pieces are great fashion stables for any college wardrobe.
The main reason why Coach is such a popular brand among college students is that it strikes the perfect balance between affordability and luxury. When you shop at Coach, you can enjoy the style and quality of a premium brand without breaking the bank.
2. Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein is an affordable luxury brand that many college students wear. The Calvin Klein underwear collection is extremely popular among college students because of the iconic logo waistband, simple style, and comfort.
Overall, Calvin Klein is a great brand for college students looking to add a touch of affordable luxury to their everyday wardrobe.
3. Lacoste
Lacoste is an affordable luxury brand that can be found in most malls. The iconic crocodile logo is a symbol of sporty elegance and is one of the most recognizable logos in fashion.
Incorporating clothing items into your college wardrobe is a great way to level up your style. Lacoste provides the same quality as a high-end brand but only charges a fraction of the price.
If you’re looking for a brand that provides better quality than a fast fashion brand but charges less than high end brands, then check out Lacoste.
4. Tommy Hilfiger
Tommy Hilfiger is a classic, all-American brand that is known for its preppy aesthetic and timeless style. Tommy Hilfiger is popular among college students as it is an affordable designer brand with an elegant look.
If you’re a college student looking for business casual attire, check out Tommy Hilfiger.
5. Polo Ralph Lauren
If you’re a college student looking for an affordable designer luxury brand that will last the test of time, then you can’t go wrong with Polo Ralph Lauren. Polo is a brand that is known for its high-quality materials, attention to detail, and craftsmanship.
Honourable Mentions:
- Michael Kors
- American Eagle
- Tory Burch
- Urban Outfitters
- Canada Goose
How Can College Students Afford Luxury Items?
There’s no denying that designer items can be quite pricey. However, many students still manage to purchase these luxury goods. Which makes many people wonder how they can afford these items.
Nowadays, some college students prioritize purchasing luxury goods over saving money. Although this isn’t necessarily financially responsible, it is a way that college students can afford luxury items.
Another way that college students can afford luxury items is by purchasing designer items second-hand. Websites like Grailed, Fashionphile, and The RealReal sell authenticated used designer items. The resell market also allows college students to sell their luxury purchases easily.
Although it may seem like designer clothing never goes on sale, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Just like mainstream clothing brands, designer clothing goes on sale as well.
As a college student, looking for sales and good deals on designer clothing is a great idea. Stores like Nordstrom Rack, SSENSE, and Sack Fifth Avenue have luxury goods sales every few months.
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Final Thoughts On Luxury Brands For College Students
As a college student, it’s important to balance your budget and priorities when it comes to luxury purchases during your college years. Although designer products are nice to own, at the end of the day, they are just material items.
It’s normal to be on a tight budget in college, and there is nothing wrong with waiting until you graduate before making a designer purchase.
It’s normal to be on a tight budget in college, and there is nothing wrong with waiting until you graduate before making a designer purchase.
If you can afford luxury brands in college, you will want to make smart purchases. Check out Nordstrom Rack, and look for sales at stores like Sacks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.
Furthermore, only purchase high fashion items that will sustain their value. It’s easy to get caught up in the trends, but it is certainly not worth the high price as they will lose value over time.