by Courtney Smith | staff writer

With over 3,000 students roaming the halls, Johnson is the size of a small town. So, it’s easy to see why we develop our own trends and fads. Below is a list of the top 10 trends of 2015 at our school.

1. Lokai Bracelets– Infused with water from Mt. Everest and mud from the Dead Sea, Lokai bracelets have taken the school by storm. These accessories have expanded from the traditional clear bracelet to camouflage, pink, red, and blue and can be found on the wrist of almost every student in the hallway. Lokai aren’t cheap, either (ranging from $20 for one and $118 for the limited edition pack). Although it isn’t scientifically proven that every bracelet actually has mud and water in it, they’ve still made quite a splash in 2015.
2. Pali Hawaiian Jandals– Made in Hawaii and only $10 apiece, it’s easy to see why the rubber shoes have been seen on guys and girls alike. They became quite the competition for chacos and birkenstocks at Johnson.
3. Kendra Scott– Gold plastic and colored stones have come together to make the most popular girl’s jewelry this year. Kendra earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets alike could be found on nearly every girl. The signature yellow box, along with the blue pouch, are basically a part of student culture now.
4. Non-Starbucks Lovers– The “basic-ness” of starbucks was overshadowed ever so slightly in 2015 by a new trend: being just too good for it. Not liking Starbucks became a trend of it’s own, which subsequently launched other coffee places to stardom.
5. Leather Pearl Necklaces– The leather choker fit with a plastic pearl attached was on the necks of most girls in 2015. Although these necklaces aren’t affiliated with a specific brand name, the beach vibe had a lot of people hopping on board. However, I still hope that the seashell necklaces of the early 2000’s don’t make an appearance in the next year. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
6. Big T-Shirts– The tradition of raiding your older sister’s closet was replaced this year by raiding the men’s section at Eddie Bauer. Okay.
7. The Dab- Look at it.
8. Spirit Jerseys– Straight from Greek Row at every college across America, Spirit Jerseys made their way into Johnson this year. They’re customizable, comfortable, and unisex. Although, you have to be willing to drop $50+ on these shirts, which may not be convenient on a high school or college budget.
9. Being College Before You go to College– Along with spirit jerseys, more and more students were pledging their allegiance to various colleges- even freshman and sophomores. Sorority symbols, sports gear, and even instagram bios showed students already embracing the “college life”. While it’s good to have a plan, let’s hope 2016 brings more students to enjoy the now instead.
10. Embracing Basic– Calling girls “basic” a few years back was considered a diss, but more and more girls are calling themselves basic. Wearing uggs, white converse high tops, and drinking Starbucks is now totally fine if you call yourself “basic”. Embrace it, ladies. Be proud.