HAMK Looks: A peek Into Our Students' Unique Styles

It is no secret that we are creative people at HAMK, and this becomes evident as we stroll through our campus. There’s always an exhibition (or two) to check out at the café, showcasing the cool projects our students have created. Creativity isn’t just in our work—it’s also in what we wear. On campus, we see all sorts of creative outfits, giving us our very own ever-changing fashion show. 

A few of our stylish students were happy to tell us more about their outfits and the inspirations behind them. 

Anka: Styling Sustainability

With our design programs having a focus on sustainability, many of our students also make sustainable fashion choices in their daily lives. For our 2nd year smart and sustainable design footwear student Anka, sustainability plays a big role in her style.  

Where do you get your style inspiration? 

“My main inspiration for my style is the garment itself! I haven't bought anything new or fast fashion since 2019, and I’ve found that going to thrift stores or flea markets and getting whatever stands out for me based on color, pattern or material, is what inspires me. However, I'm definitely a big fan of vintage, 80s and 90s style, velvety and shiny textures, maximalist patterns and mismatched colors!” 

Has your style changed after starting studies at HAMK? 

“I think my style hasn't changed much since I started at HAMK, but my shoe collection has gotten massive! While studying footwear, shoes have become a big passion for me, way more than before. I enjoy collecting and 'hunting' for rare brands and vintage pairs of shoes.” 

Ava: Whimsical Vintage Lover

Since we are in Finland where the winters can get pretty brutal, being stylish must also be functional. Layering is key! Our 1st year smart and sustainable glass and ceramic design student Ava notices how the weather of Finland has affected her style. 

Where do you get your style inspiration? 

“I love wearing vintage clothes that feel a little whimsical and earthy while still being comfortable.” 

Has your style changed after starting studies at HAMK? 

“I’ve had to learn how to dress for the weather and have been thrifting fun layering pieces and coats. I also started to make glass jewelry which I wear almost every day. At school I always end up covered in clay by the end of the day, so I dress in “work clothes” most of the time that I don’t mind getting dirty in.“

Julius: Fashion Time Traveler

For many of our creative students, fashion is an important way to express themselves. Just like any art form, fashion can be just another way to be creative. Our 3rd year ceramics student Julius finds that important and dresses in a way that shows off his personality. 

 Where do you get your style inspiration? 

“My style inspiration comes from all kinds of places, but mostly I'm always after colorful and unique clothing from many fashion eras and I don't settle for one style. I get inspiration from animations and movies and want my personality to show through my clothes.” 

Has your style changed after starting studies at HAMK? 

“I'd say it has evolved more than changed. I have gotten way more confident with my own style and other design students constantly inspire me to dress how I want!” 

As we can see, clothing is a way for HAMK students to express who they are and what they value. But it also must be practical for studio work which is often messy — and Finland’s weather, where cold hits like a surprise snowball. All these things mix together in creative and cool ways. HAMK is an inspiring environment where everyone can dress as they wish, surrounded by a rich variety of personal styles.