A sophomore journalism and mass communication major at St. Bonaventure University, I work as an assignment editor for my school’s newspaper, where the articles I review are all about news, news, news. I get it—I work for a newspaper as the news assignment editor, after all—but I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be welcomed into a community where expression is celebrated!
A child enamored by film, I grew up obsessing over the glorious works of John Hughes and Nora Ephron. The romance-soaked tales carefully spun by these darling artists convinced me fashion, namely ’80s fashion, was a sure way to one’s heart
It follows, then, that I found much of my inspiration digging through my mother’s storage bins. Chunky belts with floral dresses, oversized sweaters with thick leggings, and even high-waisted bottoms had my heart from a young age.
My peers weren’t always impressed. We were growing up with fads and trends that I rarely adhered to! I got my first (and only) perm when I was eight years old, while most girls my age were begging their parents for hair straighteners. I didn’t start wearing skinny jeans until my senior year of high school. And I’ve never, ever owned a pair of Uggs. Though I thought choker necklaces looked precious, I was far too afraid to try them.
Today, I am happy to say I tell a (slightly) different story.
I no longer fear fashion. The clothes I once thought belonged only on a certain body type, I now happily sport myself. Does this mean I now adhere to all trends? I absolutely do not! I still adore ’80s fashion. I don’t think I’ll ever buy a pair of Uggs. I am my own person. Isn’t that what fashion is all about?
Check this: I’m sporting a Harold and the Purple Crayon sweater from Out of Print Clothing, a plaid scarf, booties, a bracelet I found in the junk drawer, and my signature braids. Is it traditional? I don’t know! The important thing is that I’ve realized it doesn’t matter.
