As mid-semester kicks in and academic, professional and personal demands relentlessly vie for your time and attention, it’s easy to get stuck in your daily routine and feel drained and uninspired. Personally, what I need most during this time is a mental and creative recharge. Loyola’s spring break is scheduled earlier than most schools, and so as most college kids were in the thick of midterm season, I left Chicago and headed off to California. I spent my week strolling through boardwalks and pretty neighborhoods, visiting quaint shops and touristy landmarks, gorging on poke bowls and a slew of delectable desserts (that sadly cannot be found in Chicago) and binging on bubble tea at least once or twice a day. I came back refreshed, inspired and confident that I can crush the remainder of my final semester in college.
This particular look draws inspiration from the Gucci pre-fall 2016 collection. I have honestly never been a fan of Gucci in the past, but I have been completely in love and inspired by the collections that Alessandro Michele has created since he took over as the house’s Creative Director in the beginning of 2015.
The 2016 pre-fall collection possessed a vintage ’70s vibe and was a treasure chest of florals, colorful vintage prints, intricate painting-like patterns and Gucci’s new serpent insignia. Multicolored fur coats, silk bomber jackets and ruffled floor length dresses were some of the key pieces in the collection. Tie front blouses and dresses, printed sweaters and gleaming electric pleats were also a common sight. Shiny or metallic details finished off each look.
To create a look modeled after the collection, I chose a floral mini dress with bell sleeves and a tie front. I opted for black suede lace-up flats for footwear and completed the look with a vintage gold chain bag I picked up from the Melrose Trading Post.
Get My Look: 1. A floral ’70s-inspired dress. 2. Pointed lace-up flats. 3. A gold chain bag.
