As new trends begin to make their way onto our phone screens and into our lives, how about reflecting on some of the hottest trends of 2023! From hair clips to water bottles there were many memorable items that students fawned over this year.

 First there was the Stanley takeover! These water bottles were the hot item during the beginning and really throughout the whole year. They are known for their bigger than life sizes and the iconic cup shape with a handle. Not only could they hold a lot of water, but they come in a variety of colors, even recently coming out with bright pink and red colors in anticipation for Valentine’s Day. Some small businesses even customized them with names, patterns, and even Taylor Swift themed bottles during last year’s The Eras Tour’s craze. 

“I’m sure that if I were to walk into any classroom here at OLLA about 60% of the girls would have a Stanley,” freshman Alesia Santos said. “Coming from someone who has a Stanley, I think the reason they are so popular is because it keeps water cold, they are cute, and because of how much water they can hold, it helps you drink more water throughout the day.”  

Another popular water bottle, fast in gaining a big fan base is the Owala. These water bottles are known for their trademark of having various different colors in one bottle. An example of a color matchup is one that includes orange, pink, light pink, aqua, and red. 

However, water bottles were not our only fixation in 2023. The shoes that everyone made sure to have on their Christmas list were UGGs, the shoes of the fall and winter season. These shoes have been a staple for years but recently resurfaced. While the most popular buy is the classic, plain, beige model, there are many styles trending. For example, there are tasman slippers, classica ultra mini platform boots, ultra mini classic boots, and disquette slippers.

“I got my UGGs for Christmas and I love them,” senior Sylvia Mendiola said. “They have kept me warm during these cold days, I can use them on the go, and they are also comfortable to wear around the house.” 

Following the UGGs we have the ribbons and bows mania. Bows, in particular, took the school by storm. The halls were suddenly filled with students wearing all sorts of ribbons and tieing them into bows to wear in their hair. According to students, wearing bows and ribbons reminded them of their childhood and made them feel girly. Hairstyles commonly styled with bows include half up half downs and braids. Especially during OLLA fest, these ribbons and bows made a grand appearance, as students represented their class colors by the accessories in their hair. 

“I like to wear ribbons because it makes me feel pretty and put together. In all truth, it makes me feel like I’m still a kid and it makes me feel safe,” said junior Daniella Rodriguez. 

Next, is the unjustifiable purchase. The $30 dollar hair clips that took Miami by storm. Emi Jays, the colorful, sparkly, and sometimes even customized clips are rocked by most students around the halls. These clips come in various sizes and typically have rhinestones or some type of pattern with stars and bows. 

“I’m sure that Lourdes’ girls are keeping the Emi Jay business alive,” sophomore Sarah Barreto said. “If we would actually take the time to count, I am sure that two out of every three Lourdes’ girls have an Emi Jay and honestly I can’t blame them. I am one of those girls because I love this brand. The way their clips hold my hair up and decorate my looks is just perfect.”

While there were many more trends in 2023, these were the most memorable. Although, I am sure we will be saying goodbye to some of them soon to make room for the new trends the new year has already started to bring.