7 Creative Side Hustles for Students to Cash In on Campus Fashion Trends

7 Creative Side Hustles for Students to Cash In on Campus Fashion Trends

Hey Villagers, who’s ready to make some extra cash while slaying the campus fashion game? As an African student who’s been hustling clothes at uni, I know school is the perfect place to start a side gig. If you’re into fashion but want something different from the usual clothing resale, here are 7 creative side hustles to tap into campus style trends. These are low-cost, relatable ideas that can vibe with selling clothes (like gowns, jeans, or tees) but add a unique twist. Let’s get you stacking coins!

1. Custom Tie-Dye Kits for Tees
   • What: Sell DIY tie-dye kits with plain tees ($2–$3 each from local markets) and dye packs for students to create their own designs.
   • Why It’s Fire: Everyone loves unique tees, and DIY is huge on campus. Charge $10–$15 per kit.
   • Cost: $20 for 10 tees + $10 for dyes = $30 startup.
   • Market It: Post tie-dye tutorials on Instagram Reels with #CampusDIY.
2. Vintage Jean Patch Service
   • What: Offer to sew custom patches (e.g., school logos, emojis) onto thrifted jeans ($3–$7 each) for $5–$10 per pair.
   • Why It’s Fire: Personalised jeans are a vibe, and it’s cheaper than buying new.
   • Cost: $15 for 5 jeans + $5 for patches/threads = $20 startup.
   • Market It: Show before-and-afters on WhatsApp status to dorm mates.
3. Pop-Up Gown Rental for Events
   • What: Rent out thrifted or tailored gowns ($5–$10 each) for formals or parties at $10–$20 per night.
   • Why It’s Fire: Students want glam without spending big. Perfect for campus events.
   • Cost: $25 for 5 gowns + $5 for cleaning = $30 startup.
   • Market It: Create a Google Form for bookings and share in class WhatsApp groups.
4. Streetwear Sticker Packs for Men’s Gear
   • What: Design and sell vinyl stickers ($0.50–$1 each) for laptops or hoodies, themed around campus slang or streetwear vibes.
   • Why It’s Fire: Complements men’s clothing sales and builds your brand. Charge $5–$10 per pack.
   • Cost: $10 for 20 stickers (via local printers) = $10 startup.
   • Market It: Gift stickers with hoodie sales and post on X with #UniSwag.
5. Thrift Flip Workshops
   • What: Host workshops teaching students to upcycle thrifted clothes (e.g., turn tees into crop tops). Charge $5–$10 per person, provide materials ($2–$5 each).
   • Why It’s Fire: It’s fun, sustainable, and builds community.
   • Cost: $20 for 10 tees + $5 for scissors/threads = $25 startup.
   • Market It: Flyer campus halls and tag eco-clubs on Instagram.
6. Campus Lookbook Zine
   • What: Create a digital or printed zine showcasing student outfits (featuring your clothes). Sell for $2–$5 or offer free with purchases.
   • Why It’s Fire: It’s a cool way to market your gowns or jeans while hyping campus style.
   • Cost: $10 for printing 10 zines or $0 for digital = $10 startup.
   • Market It: Share via X with #CampusLookbook and tag featured students.
7. Sneaker Cleaning Service
   • What: Clean sneakers ($1–$2 per pair for supplies) to pair with your men’s clothing sales. Charge $5–$10 per clean.
   • Why It’s Fire: Fresh kicks complete the outfit, and students love convenience.
   • Cost: $10 for cleaning supplies = $10 startup.
   • Market It: Post “before-and-after” pics on Instagram Stories.

Why These Work: These hustles are cheap (under $30 each), leverage campus trends, and pair well with selling clothes. I tried the tie-dye kits at my uni in Ibadan and made $50 in a weekend! Pick one, test it, and watch your wallet grow.

What’s Your Move? Which hustle are you feeling? Drop your thoughts or share your side gig ideas below. Let’s inspire each other to run this campus fashion game!