Q: Who or what inspires your sense of fashion?
A: I love a clean, warm, simple, monochromatic look. A pullover sweater or a button-down with a skirt or a pair of jeans, with snappy yet functional shoes, and a good pair of earrings. My style is inspired by my friend, Nicole Caruso. She started a concept called “worthy to wear.” So often, we leave our favorite pieces in our closet for months because we’re afraid of damaging them. If we never wear them, they are worthless and create clutter. I have really emphasized investing in pieces I can wear to a variety of functions, varying in formality. I can wear my favorite sweater to work with a skirt and heels or to a party with a pair of jeans and mules. Nicole has also encouraged me to “dress up” when I don’t have to, which helps to integrate my “work” and “casual” wardrobe.
Q: How has your style evolved from your freshman to senior year at Hillsdale?
A: Freshman year I was known for my bohemian style — I still run into friends on campus who bring up the evolution of my style. The summer before I left for WHIP, I got rid of at least half of my clothes. I was overwhelmed by having something of everything and wanted a simpler, more suiting wardrobe. You don’t need that many clothes if you like everything you own. I focused on investing in quality pieces that I loved and, through that process, I curated my style over the last two years.
Q: Do you pay attention to current trends or are you more of a trailblazer when it comes to your style?
A: The world of fashion gets messier the closer you get to it, but I do love to follow the trends. The trends I follow most closely are Spanish bridal and New York street fashion. I am definitely a trend-follower when it comes to hair — a simple center-part look is sleek, ladylike, and down to business. It’s also all over Spain. My favorite casual look is my favorite pair of jeans with a chunky sweater and mules, which I see in New York a lot. It’s easy and composed.
Q: Do you have any fall trend predictions?
A: Ochre is firmly back in style (even though, as my grandma would chastise, it is nobody’s color). Contemporary clogs are on their way in. Abstract, funky, and color-blocked earrings are definitely on their way if you haven’t gotten in on that trend already.
Q: Do you tend to focus more on one category rather than the other like clothes, shoes, or jewelry, or is your approach all-encompassing?
A: I think presentation is a huge part of style. I went through a preppy phase in high school, but I never really pulled it off because I couldn’t be bothered to spend time in the morning doing my hair or makeup. Now, I care more about taking that time for myself every morning. I enjoy the creative and quiet outlet of putting on makeup. My jewelry is definitely characterized by earrings. I cannot turn down a good statement pair.
