Hello everyone! My name is Rachel Kaplan, and I’m a junior currently studying fashion merchandising, public relations, and marketing at Kent State University. This will be my third semester as a Style Guru, and I can’t wait to get started again! Throughout this experience I’ve become more knowledgable and passionate about writing and photography.
This past semester I had the most incredible opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy and travel around Europe. While it taught me to become more independent and culturally aware, it also changed some of my perspective on fashion. Most importantly, I learned just how greatly sustainability must be on our minds at all times and how the fashion industry is affecting the planet. Quality is extremely important in Italy and the rest of Europe and is becoming even more significant to me. While I love to shop (what Fashionista/Fashionisto doesn’t?), I now try to buy a few high-quality items rather than a multitude of cheaper fast fashion pieces.
Style-wise, I have definitely grown to love more simplistic and classic outfits, even though I still love edgy, bohemian pieces. The fashion in Italy is so well put together and effortlessly chic that I had to take inspiration from it. All of the different European street styles I observed have also help shape my outfit ideas. In addition, I often find inspiration from online publications and blogs, such as WhoWhatWear, SincerelyJules, Song Of Style, By Tezza, and WeWoreWhat.
Some of my favorite pieces right now are a staple overcoat, boyfriend jeans, leather jacket, slip dress, simple gold or silver jewelry, and sneakers (Adidas, Nike, and New Balance are my top picks). I just can’t shake the athleisure trend. Especially when traveling around Europe it was important to be comfortable but fashion-forward. I also love anything and everything velvet at the moment!
In this outfit I’m wearing a black turtleneck and boyfriend jeans from Madewell paired with a tweed overcoat and heeled booties. What I love about this ensemble is that it’s very interchangeable. Simplicity is key for this. By switching out the coat, accessories, and shoes, you can take this outfit from day to night, class to the bar, etc.
Check back monthly to find some of the best street style around Kent’s campus! Stay #RAD!
