Just a few years ago, no one has heard of the current trends of New Balance sneakers and Kanken backpacks.

Instead, polytechnics were dominated by things like TOMs and Crumpler bags. Unfortunately, these trends died before you can say "carrot top jeans".

Such is the fickleness of  youthful polytechnic fashion trends.

Rest well, my dear trends. You have served me well.

1. Baggu

The bags that once coloured our campuses - from the most commonly carried black to the bombastic neon yellow -  have become almost obsolete. Today, it is near impossible to find anyone slinging the Baggu duck bag on their shoulders. Why? I realised the bag really is functionally flawed: there are no compartments and hardly any space to put anything.

2. Red Wings

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Also fondly known as the Ah Beng footwear. Despite the stigma, I wanted a pair real bad and I was envious of whoever who had these kicks. I remembered pointing out people who wore Red Wings to my friend and going: "Must be rich." These boots cost a bomb: $400 for a pair of shoes is not a small sum of money. That is why many are more willing to invest in a pair of Timberland that is half the price but just as slick and durable.

3. TOMs

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When I first saw it, I thought I had to have it. And hey, I'll be contributing to a good cause because for every purchase, TOMs will donate a pair of shoe to someone that really needs it. However, if you have chubby legs like mine, avoid these form-hugging shoes because just like wearing a tight-fitting shirt, the shoes accentuate your curves or the lack thereof in my case.

4. Crumpler

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Over-priced messenger bag that probably went out of fashion because it could not complement the newer trends like A&F t-shirts or Dr Martens boots.

5. Carrot top jeans

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This trend died for obvious reason: it's hideous.

6. Birkenstock

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Poly students rejoiced at the discovery of Birkenstock sandals because essentially these are slippers they could wear without looking too underdressed. And man did they wear it with everything, be it shorts, jeans, sweats and even dresses. And unlike other trends like Baggu and TOMs, there were many designs to choose from.

However, it has one fatal flaw: it is not waterproof. Also, another reason that led to its premature death is the imitations that started popping up that looked exactly like the real deal. I, for one, got mine at Metro at $30 and nobody has called me out on it. Yet.

7. Slicked back hair

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With my symmetrically shaved sides and half a bottle of hair spray on my hair, I thought I was cool - Great Gatsby cool - till someone told me bluntly that it made my face look round. Well, this is not for everyone. Unless you are David Beckham, who looks cool all year around.

Top image from Martin Brochaus

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