Hey again! I’m Lauren Black, a returning Style Guru from this past fall and a second semester senior at the University of Southern California (USC). I can’t believe I’m already so close to graduating, but at the same time, my freshman year seems like ages ago! I loved being able to write stories and style advice for CollegeFashionista from what I’ve learned throughout my time at USC, so I had to continue this fun opportunity for one last season. There is always someone on campus to write about, since so many students here embrace the trendy Los Angeles lifestyle. However, I’m also interested in the global fashion industry, so in addition to browsing CollegeFashionista, I spend way too much time filtering through runway shows, street style photos and social influencer accounts to discover new trends. I’m studying up to make my dream of becoming a Fashion Editor a reality post-graduation.
While it’s cold out, this kind of sweater-and-skinny pants combo essentially becomes my uniform. In terms of my personal style, I tend to gravitate towards reliable basics—like simple T-shirts, cozy sweaters, black jeans or really black anything—then throw on an of-the-moment accessory, some statement outerwear or a fabulous pair of shoes to keep things interesting. Shoes really are my weakness! I inevitably became a total sneakerhead this past year, which I never thought would be possible before. To be honest, though, I’m susceptible to most of fashion’s coming and going trends—I consider each one a challenge to learn how to style, but I do accept that not all of them will work for me. I am inspired most by modern style; I look towards stylist Monica Rose and the impeccable outfits she creates for Kendall and Gigi, as well as the OOTD’s of my favorite bloggers, Shea Marie and Danielle Bernstein, for regular inspiration.
As I prepare for graduation this spring, I also have to start preparing my wardrobe for a professional lifestyle. Luckily, working in fashion will still allow me to dress creatively. Some major transition pieces I’ll be on the hunt for are longline, tailored vests I can layer over shorter hemlines to make pieces I already own more office appropriate, as well as skinny (faux) leather jeans to elevate my simpler sweaters and blouses. Just for fun, I’m also thinking about adding a pair of Nike Air Max Thea‘s to that sneaker collection of mine, too. So until I officially have to be a responsible adult, I hope to take as many weekend trips as possible this semester and thoroughly explore all the Los Angeles neighborhoods when I have extra time. And, of course, meet some more Fashionistas!
