Hi everyone! My names Melissa, I’m going into my senior year at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). I’m studying Fashion Merchandising with a concentration in Marketing. I’m excited to be able to share my tips and advice with all of you this summer!
I’ve been wrapped up in all things fashion for as long as I can remember. When I first enrolled at IUP, I was undecided. I knew fashion merchandising was something I wanted to do however I was uncertain of the job possibilities. After my first semester and a lot of thought and consideration, I decided to go for it. I’d rather take the risk to do something that I love, rather than play it safe and wind up sitting behind a desk wearing a faded pair of black pants and a gray blouse every day. I don’t see fashion as a job. For me it’s a hobby, and who wouldn’t want to do something they love for the rest of their lives?
The most common question I get asked is: why fashion? My answer is simple. I love being able to wake up in the morning and choose who I want to be that day. It’s like dress-up for grownups. One morning I may wake up and decide I want to be girly Melissa and throw on a sundress and pink lipstick. Then the next morning I might feel like being edgy Melissa and break out the combat boots and plaid shirts. I wouldn’t consider myself to have a certain style, although I’ve recently found myself being into all things bohemian.
Like any fashion lover, I have a love for shopping (totally not a shopping addiction). Being in college and shopping are pretty much polar opposites. However when I do shop I enjoy the more affordable stores such as Forever 21, H&M, Brandy Mellville and even occasionally a local thrift store. Like one of the best Fashionistas of all time, Carrie Bradshaw said, “I like my money right where I can see it: hanging in my closet.” I hope I can inspire you this summer to take risks and try new things with your look. Buy that romper that you don’t think you can pull off, get that bold red lipstick you’ve been wanting, dye your hair and splurge on that J.Crew statement necklace. Life’s too short to stay the same, so let fashion be your experiment.
