Hello Fashionistas! I am thrilled to be returning for round three as a Style Guru this summer. As I prepare for my junior year at Bradley University as a retail merchandising student, I can’t help but to look back on all the opportunities and experiences I have encountered so far. Through these past two years, it is safe to say I have grown into a different and better version of myself than the nervous freshman. Being involved on campus through CollegeFashionista, Greek life and the theatre’s costume department has opened my eyes to a whole new world.
As I’m home for the summer, not only will I be searching for bold and stylish Fashionistas/os across the Chicagoland area, I will also be interning for a local boutique. When I’m not busy at school studying, writing for CollegeFashionista or completing my internship duties, I am taking visits to the city to meet up with friends and hopefully along the way find the best coffee shops to contribute to my coffee addiction. I also love taking advantage of down time by simply reading the latest fashion magazine and soaking up the summer sun at the beach or even in my backyard.
As I’ve grown through college, there is without a doubt a reflection of that with my personal style. I love to play around with current trends and classic styles, making it into a look of my own. Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new and unexpected trends. My favorites right now are all of the bohemian and floral prints, everything flowy and loose fitting from dresses to kimonos and of course, the come back of chokers. I love mixing retro and modern styles, like wearing a pair of vintage light wash high-waisted shorts paired with a halter styled crop top and comfortable slip-on sandals. Looks like this can take me from a day of shopping with friends to lounging around on the beach. If I feel comfortable and confident in an outfit, then I know I will be ready for any occasion.
My go-to outfit this summer is a romper. Rompers are so versatile; they can be casual for a walk through the farmers market or dressed up for a dinner date downtown. Here, I went with a bohemian-chic look. The paisley print, simple capped sleeves and cross-front give the look a young and classic feel. The rest of the ensemble is dressed up with tan, thick strap wedges and stacked, western styled bracelets.
While I will sure miss searching the Hilltop for stylish Fashionistas/os, I know I’ll be reunited with the glory of Peoria in no time. Here’s to a #RAD summer!
