We all have an article of clothing from our past that we can’t forget. There are quite a few stylistic choices that haunt my past. The worst was a pair of black and metallic Halloween tights. They were covered in sculls and crossbows and adorned with little pink bows. The tights were the epitome of cool, at least in the eyes of a seven-year-old girl. Looking back, I realize they were absolutely ridiculous, but at the time this “statement piece” was a staple in my wardrobe. I often wish that my mother had never been swayed into buying me these tights, yet in the end I’m really happy that she did. This pair of tights was the first article of clothing that I really loved, and they’ve had a lasting effect on me.
Since then, I have outgrown the holiday-themed apparel, but I haven’t outgrown my love of clothing and the effects they can have. I cherish the way clothes can make one feel, the instant confidence that can come from pulling on the perfect dress or sliding on an amazing pair of shoes. This power is what made me want to study fashion and work in the field.
In order to follow this passion, I am majoring in apparel design at Cornell University with a minor in fiber science. I want to use my degree to help people see that fashion is about more than just the glamour of the runway or obsession with appearance. To me, fashion is a key element of self expression and is crucial to one’s identity.
Follow me this summer as I explore the city of Chicago, searching for college students with a sense of style that truly expresses their individuality.
