Hi guys! My name is Dara McCluskey, and I’m a senior fashion design and merchandising major, minoring in marketing and journalism, at Mississippi State University. Upon graduating, I hope to pursue a career in fashion journalism and eventually work my way up to a position as a fashion editor at an international publishing company. My personal style can be described as cool and laid back with an occasional twist of edge or quirk, just like me! I am in love with my field of study and am inspired by the idea of using fashion as a form of self-expression. This concept is also what drives my hard work and dedication within my major.
This summer, I am moving to New York City for a fashion internship with Rialto Jean Project (if you’ve never heard of it, check it out). Focusing on unique hand-painted pieces, this company is also an excellent combination of fashion and expressing individuality. I will be busy with other projects over the summer as well, such as shadowing a freelance stylist/former fashion editor and starting my own blog! The fashion and lifestyle blog, “Wine and Ripped Jeans,” will follow me on my journey in NYC and through a young woman’s struggle of transitioning into official adulthood as I turn the big 2-1 at the end of May. While in the city, I know I will gain tons of priceless experience and take away a new perspective on many things. Of course, I will also be on style watch at all times while in the fashion capital of the US of A! I am always so incredibly inspired by the people and environment around me, and a summer in the Big Apple will be no exception.
In these photos, I am wearing another one of my comfy yet fashionable ensembles featuring the everlasting Free People trapeze slip. To accessorize this versatile piece, I added the most adorable pair of sandals by Rebels Footwear. To top it off, I’m wearing one of my many kimonos and my favorite choker (find a similar one from ASOS here) made by a local artist in my hometown. Completing my look is every basic girl’s dream –a pair of homemade cut-offs crafted from the perfect Goodwill find.
I can’t wait to continue sharing my style with you and bring my NYC findings to life in fun articles. I’m so excited to discover and follow fellow gurus by posting through CollegeFashionista! Looking forward to a #RAD semester!
