Your Guide to Post-Grad City Style

Class of 2026, WE ARE graduating. As we head into the final week of the semester and close this chapter of our college years, VALLEY wants to remind you — it’s okay to feel a little heartbroken. Saying goodbye to friends as everyone heads off to different cities and big-kid jobs isn’t easy. Change rarely is. But within every bittersweet ending comes the promise of something new. As important as it is to sit with the sadness of leaving your college town, it’s just as important to get excited about what’s next — specifically the style and fashion trends of your new home base.

New York City

If you’re graduating from Penn State, there’s a good chance you’ll be joining a large portion of the alumni network in New York City this summer. Naturally, you’ll want to look your best for a post-work happy hour with coworkers at the Monkey Bar. New York embraces individuality, style statements that are bold, expressive and unapologetic. As much as we Penn Staters love our blue and white, those making the move to the Big Apple should start incorporating more color, patterns and texture into their wardrobe. Experiment with silhouettes. Throw on a blazer with a low-rise midi skirt for a night out, channeling Carrie Bradshaw — after all, she’s the ultimate NYC blueprint.

Philly!

Penn State and Philly pride go hand in hand, and so do our soon-to-be alums.  So when that first post-work happy hour rolls around at Parc, you’ll want to feel put-together without looking like you tried too hard. Philly style leans effortlessly cool — polished, but practical, with just the right amount of edge. Although it’s technically “Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” you’re still going to want to build your full of oversized bomber jackets, denim and of course as much Kelly Green as possible. Think casual but cool when planning your outfits for your upcoming move.  It’s less about standing out for the sake of it and more about owning a look that feels authentic. Philly style is all about confidence without the noise. Go Birds!

Charleston

Penn State and Charleston might feel like an unexpected pairing, but plenty of soon-to-be grads are heading south and the style shift is steep. Charleston style is light, feminine and effortlessly coastal — think breezy fabrics, soft pastels, linen sets and flowy dresses that move with the humidity. You’re going to want to trade in your heavy winter game-day jackets for light, flowy fabrics. It’s less about bold statements and more about embracing an easy elegance that feels natural. If you’re making the move down south post-grad it might be time for a 2022 cottage-core style revival.

Los Angeles

WE ARE heading out west? For those jet-setters setting off for Hollywood post-grad, you’re going to want to keep your style shift casual, cool and most importantly authentic. The city thrives on a balance of laid-back and curated, where off-duty model energy meets everyday practicality. Think vintage denim, oversized sunglasses, cropped tees and perfectly worn-in basics layered with intention. In LA, it’s less about dressing up and more about looking like you didn’t try too hard (even if you did). The result is a vibe that feels relaxed, confident but always red carpet–ready.

What does your post-grad city style look like? Let us know on our Instagram @VALLEYmag!

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