STYLE GURU BIO: Natalie Dominguez

In my youth, I saw clothing as a way to fit in. I later realized that the true point of fashion is to make one stand out. As cliche as it sounds, I believe fashion at its core is art. In my perspective, both as a college student and an individual passionate about fashion, I see the fashion world divided into two entities. Thereโ€™s the cookie-cutter, repetitious side of trend following and exclusivity. Then there is an anti-mainstream movement. A rebellion against the stereotypical image the fashion industry seems to uphold. The duality between the two creates an interesting irony, as one is still following a trend even with the latter.

This notion combined with my inextinguishable fascination with people and culture in general, creates the perfect mixture for my love for fashion and the industry as a whole. I value honesty, appreciate sentimentality and enjoy unexpectedness. All while throwing in some humorous quips here and there. All of those aspects are also often represented in the vast realm of fashion.

As for my personal style, I choose to wear what instills confidence in myself because that is what I feel should be the driving force in style; building and creating oneโ€™s confidence and identity. Youโ€™ll likely never catch me in florals for spring or bright neons with sandals for summer. If you look in my closet, you will see a very diverse (sarcasm intended) color scheme of black, gray, dark red and white. My shoes are all various types of ankle booties that are also in dark colors. Even though I was born and raised, and currently reside in sunny Southern California, my attire lives in a perpetual state of fall time.

Another passion of mine is music. Particularly alternative, classic and hard rock. Along with heavy metal. This is a theme which I think strongly influences and translates into my style. Much of my wardrobe is made up of band T-shirts from concerts Iโ€™ve attended. Being in a relationship with a music journalist for a metal website, attending concerts is a frequent occurrence. In an icebreaker-like manner, Iโ€™ve made many friends just from bonding over being fans of whatever band is on my shirt. This brings me back to the point of how fashion is a way to express ourselves. Just like with fashion, music is integrated within my lifestyle and I feel both play off each other to best represent who I am.

My goal is to take fashion back to its roots and enforce that it is for everyone. To build confidence, represent self-expression and altogether stay genuine to the no rules or regulations art form that it once was. In the featured photos, Iโ€™m wearing a few of my signature pieces. The denim jacket is thrifted, but I am currently digging this one by Topshop. These thigh-high socks can be found at American Apparel, my skirt is from Urban Outfitters, the booties are Steve Madden and my sunglasses are by Quay Australia.

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