STYLE GURU BIO: Allison O'Brien

Hello, fellow Fashionistas/os! My name is Allison O’Brien and I am currently a sophomore at Illinois State University majoring in Apparel Merchandising. This will be my first semester as a Style Guru and I am beyond excited to be apart of the CollegeFashionista family!

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always been very particular about what I was wearing. Everything needed to match perfectly and have some type of sequins. Who doesn’t love a little sparkle? As I grew up, I started reading fashion magazines as if they were textbooks and religiously watching Project Runway. I began to take note of certain trends that I saw and quickly found ways to adapt them to my own personal style. My love for fashion led me to a job as a stylist at American Eagle Outfitters at a mall in my hometown. Since working there, my appreciation and love for style has grown tremendously. I love helping customers find the perfect outfit for an occasion and giving them the confidence they need to rock it!

Here at school, you’ll be able to find me running on the track or shopping around at local boutiques in Normal. There is no such thing as too many clothes! I love seeing how others around me express themselves through their outfits. Whether it’s at the gym, walking around campus or going out with friends, there is always a way to look fashionable!

One of my favorite things about fashion is that you can combine multiple different styles to create your own unique one. My personal style is usually very feminine with a touch of edge here and there. This outfit brings both of those opposite worlds together. The striped shirt paired with delicate gold jewelry works to portray the girly side of myself. Then, add the distressed Tomgirl jeans and that kicks it up a notch to throw in a little edge.

Clinton Kelly once said, “I have three words for you: Mix. It. Up.” Every day as I’m getting dressed, I try to remember this and think of new ways to mix up my style. I can’t wait to share tips and tricks with you all on how to do so this semester!

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