A few weeks ago, I checked my email and saw that I had been selected to be a Style Guru for CollegeFashionista. I then proceeded to have a mini dance party in my dorm room—the most effective way I know to display happiness. I am ridiculously excited for my first semester with the team and for the opportunities it will bring to spend time surrounded by style and writing, both of which I love. I’m looking forward to spending the second semester of my freshman year at the University of Illinois Springfield getting to take part in this internship.
My real passion lies in words, both written and spoken, which I think explains my choice of an English and communications double major quite well. Getting to incorporate my love for writing with style, which I am equally enamored by, is a complete dream come true. To me, style and language go hand in hand. An outfit is the ultimate first impression. It’s the first thing people will see and it’s important to me that mine sends a message of timeless, classy minimalism with a trendy twist. I try to incorporate this idea into everything I decide to wear, leaning more on classics than trend-driven fashion, because that tends to change so quickly. Style is all about attitude and self-expression; it’s how well you work with the fashion you have. I think Marc Jacobs knew best when he said, “Style is much more interesting than fashion, really.” It’s not about the pieces in your closet, but the way you wear them that matters.
For this particular outfit, I reached for pieces that are timeless and elegant and then for something a little edgier to add some flair. Building from basics helps me maintain a clean and seamless flow through my entire wardrobe. I started with a classic black turtleneck, which is somewhat of a uniform for me. I love the Audrey Hepburn vibe it gives off. Paired with even more black in my tights and leather Chelsea boots, my outfit remains consistent. To prevent it from getting too redundant I added a more vintage-inspired piece. The houndstooth skirt gives just the right amount of eccentricity and personality without becoming overpowering. Keeping the jewelry and makeup look minimal and understated allows the statement to be made without distractions.
It’s not uncommon for my friends to describe my style as, “modern grandma mixed with a librarian.” I have to say that I don’t disagree with that description. Once again, I am so excited to start this journey as a Style Guru and have the opportunity to do so many of the things I love. I can’t wait to keep putting looks together, as well as seek out others on campus who are doing the same. Stay tuned for my next article; I’m so stoked to be writing it!
