STYLE GURU BIO: Madeline Cioffi

I was always one of those girls that from the moment I could walk I had on a pair of my mother’s heels. In middle school, my love for fashion grew as I began to read blogs such as Style Rookie and Fashiontoast. In high school, I worked at an upscale bridal boutique in my hometown where I began to learn the business of fashion. Fast-forward to now, I am a freshman at the University of Arkansas studying business, because who doesn’t want to be a #girlboss? I hope to work in New York City post-college, in fashion of course, and make a name for myself in the industry.

To sum up my personal style in one word, it would be eclectic. One day I could wear all black and a bomber jacket, probably modeled after a look I saw on Danielle Bernstein of WeWoreWhat. The next day I could wear all color after a thrift-shop visit that struck me with inspiration. The following day I could probably be seen in workout clothes, because some days 8 a.m.’s get the best of me (I know we all have those days).

Since being in college, I now understand what it is like to be broke and how resourceful thrift shops have become. I now prefer a unique thrift store find over something I would find on Revolve. You could definitely find me eyeing the websites of Are You Am I, Gucci, or Marc Jacobs on occasion. A girl can dream – and dreaming is free!

The outfit above displays my average, everyday style. All black is the best way to look put together with little-to-no effort. I am wearing my favorite pair of  black high-rise skinny jeans that I wear all the time. I have on a western-style belt, to pull the jeans and top together. My shirt is a simple black turtleneck, a go-to for me. Then to add edge to the look I am wearing a moto jacket and leopard booties. Adding a print or pop of color to an all black ensemble is a great way to “spice up” any outfit.

The outfit pictured is an example of what I would wear out to eat, shopping, or to a social event. If I were to wear this to class, I would probably wear black leggings instead of jeans and sneakers instead of booties. I like to look stylish, but comfort trumps wearing a heeled shoe when walking a mile to class.

To all my fellow Fashionistas and Style Gurus out there, I cannot wait to take on this semester with all of you!

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