Ciao! My name is Dominique Norman. I am going to be a senior at Washington State University. I am double majoring in Apparel Design and Merchandising with a focus in Comparative Ethnic Studies. This summer I am studying abroad at Florence University of the Arts with the school of Fashion and Accessories Studies and Technology!
My passion for fashion has been evident for as long as I can remember. I’ve also always had a passion for writing, so combining my two passions to serve as a CollegeFashionista Style Guru is an opportunity that is right up my alley! I have always wanted to pursue my interest in fashion journalism, so I am very much looking forward to bringing you style advice from abroad.
For the look pictured, I actually created the outfit for a final project. I was inspired by the confidence and style of up-and-coming model Tess Holliday and wanted to transcend that into my designs. This was my first semester working with plus-size design, which I am passionate about and have been working towards for quite some time. Less than five universities in the United States teach plus-size apparel design, so this was a big accomplishment for me!
For me, I love focal points, so I used the box-pleated skirt as the focal point then paired the accessories based off of the colors and style of the skirt. To go for a classic look, I paired Jessica Simpson Claudette pumps with an oversized grey fedora. This look is a lot of fun and easy to dress up or down. Paired with a cropped jean jacket and gladiators for class or a day out shopping as a dressed-down look, then dress it up by throwing on the Claudettes and a cropped blazer for dinner and a night on the town.
I like to style and design outfits that are transcendent and that can be worn by anyone. I feel it’s important for every person to feel confident in what they wear, and that would be my primary advice as a Style Guru. Wear what makes you confident. Be you, be unique!
