Welcome back to a week of academic outfits, where a stylish person in higher ed shows us what they wear! This week, Yiwen, a digital media PhD student who researches VR, shows us what a PhD student wears and talks about how style is part of the academic journey!
Fabric and style: I would describe my style as smart-casual. I love wool pieces—they give me a soft, elegant feeling and are so comforting to touch. I often match my outfits using brown and beige tones that are warm, stylish yet low-key, with a kind of mature, caramelised charm. But I also wear a lot of jeans—they are practical for styling, pair well with many tops, and bring a sense of freshness and energetic ease whenever I need it.
Cobblestone problems: The formation of my style is also closely connected to UK weather and living habits. Wool and jeans work well across most seasons here. And since London is such a busy city where people do a lot of walking—often on beautiful cobbled streets—I usually pair my outfits with practical flat shoes, such as loafers, sneakers, Vans, or other casual sneakers.
Style as part of the journey: My favourite thing about academic fashion is the way it brings out a sense of character during my university journey.
Back in my undergraduate days, my go-to outfits were hoodies and trendy pieces—not only because coursework kept me busy, but also because I subconsciously wanted to blend into the youthful energy of the atmosphere and match my peers.
That feeling of blending in has shifted over time. During my PhD, with fewer classrooms and more independent learning, I gradually developed my own style. Less about trends, more about thoughtfulness and personal expression. And I love that change.
The best item in her closet: My favorite item is always the new item lol. (real)
Why she started her Instagram: I think smart-casual is the most common style I see people wearing. But also more formal dressing at the conference, and more casual or personalized style in their own daily life. I will try to blend in the general vibe but also bring in my own characteristics.
What fascinates me more is noticing how many other PhD students express their minds and personalities through their outfits. Academic fashion, in this sense, becomes another language of personal growth, confidence, and creativity.
That’s why I started my Instagram account @thefashionablephd: to record and celebrate our academic outfits, capturing the little vignettes of life and style that unfold along our diverse PhD journeys.
Thank you for showing us what a PhD student wears, Yiwen! Be sure to check out Yiwen’s grad school style tips on Instagram!
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