STYLE GURU BIO: Carly Denessen

Hello, my name is Carly. I’m a first-year fashion marketing student at The Art Institute of Seattle. I’ve loved fashion ever since I could walk in my mom’s high heels and reach the tiara on the top shelf. I still love playing dress up, but now I’ll pick outfits from stores and spend hours in the fitting room. When it comes to defining my style, it solely depends on the day. I wear anything: overalls, fur coats, leather jackets and more. But usually, I land on a shirt I’ve already worn that week, fleece-lined leggings, and an oversized sweater from Goodwill.

I’m an extrovert who loves a challenge and signs myself up for way too many things, but thankfully I strive in controlled chaos. If I’m not at school or at work, you can find me in my nest binge watching Gilmore Girls and Parks and Recreation. I like to spend most nights with my friends or family and go out. The rare times I get motivation, I like to draw the human form and paint with watercolors. In addition, I model in runway shows and do occasional photo shoots. Lastly, I have a huge obsession with makeup; I always carry at least eight different lipsticks in my purse just in case.

In my opinion, fashion is a way to express yourself. Combining my interests in fashion and psychology, I’ve realized I can see what kind of person someone is by what they’re wearing. Your style is who you are, and you should always wear clothing that is comfortable and makes you happy. For years I have always encouraged my friends to wear what they like no matter how funky it could be. My hope is that one day everyone can dress in the clothes they’ve never had the confidence to wear and be happy in them!

In this outfit, I chose my go-to casual outfit for class. Living 40 minutes away from my school means bundling up so I don’t turn into an ice cube before the bus comes. Layering has become my religion.

When styling someone or picking out my outfit every morning, I normally start with finding a top. It tends to be the wrinkled one on the floor instead of the clean ones in my closet, but who can help wearing their favorite shirt a third time that week? Since this particular shirt is is a button-up, I always pair it with a cute bralette to peep through then add a necklace or two. This bomber jacket actually belonged to my grandma and I like to wear it to remind me of her. Plus, it has a warm, fuzzy lining.

I am so lucky to be a part of CollegeFashionista, and I can’t wait for the first semester to start!

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