Hi there! I’m Reina Sekiguchi, a girl with a love of statement necklaces, sparkles and mom jeans (case in point, see photos above), whose name is always spelled wrong at Starbucks.
I’m a senior at Barnard College of Columbia University, majoring in Psychology and minoring in English and Economics. Balancing my analytical thinking style—I’m a proud Excel nerd—my creative interests have led me to pursue a career in the business side of fashion. Having interned for companies such as Rank & Style and Gilt Groupe, I’m excited for post-grad life in merchandising or buying.
My personal style is constantly evolving and inspired by my surroundings. Born and raised near the New England seaside, my pre-college style was defined by riding boots, blazers and a closet full of stripes. However, the minute I set foot on campus in New York City, my penchant for prep was replaced by an edgier aesthetic. I purged my wardrobe of color and filled it with lots of leather and vintage finds.
I recently returned from a semester abroad in London where I immersed myself in the fashion of my favorite Brits, bloggers Olivia Purvis and Carrie Harwood, and Alexa Chung (of course). Not only did I successfully restrain myself from sneaking into the ASOS headquarters as my bus passed it every morning, but I also left London with new style inspiration as I welcomed back color, fun prints and a romantic touch to my wardrobe.
Fashion is far more than what the superficial stereotypes make it out to be. Fashion is an artistic celebration, a form of everyday expression and the material of identity. The fashion industry empowers female leaders and entrepreneurs, and it has the power to celebrate differences and to make a difference.
This semester I’ll be bringing you sartorial snaps from Columbia’s campus at 116th and Broadway where the style is just as diverse and vibrant as New York City itself. From classic uptown prep to eclectic downtown cool and everything in between, I’m excited to bring you a glimpse of the Big Apple this semester on CollegeFashionista. Stay tuned!
