Author: Elyana Thierry

FASHIONISTO SPOLIGHT: Kyle Chu

As summer is approaching and college students are nearing the end of their semesters, it’s time to break out those summer clothes. When it comes to summer fashion, anything goes. Wear what makes you feel comfortable, reveals your personality and most importantly have fun with it. Rules are meant to be broken and fashion is no exception. This Fashionisto is bringing the business world to the streets. He’s ready for whatever life has in store for him.

Name:
 Kyle Chu

Major:
 Finance

Year:
 Freshman

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Kyle Chu: Honestly, I pick my clothes depending on what’s on top of the pile, however weather plays a factor. I think my personal style reflects my laid back personality but I like to stick to neutrals.

CF: Where do you get your fashion inspiration?

KC: I like to follow fashion trends. My favorite at the moment is cropped jeans and loafers. I get inspiration from my father as well. I’m a huge fan of the business look outside the office. 

CF: What is your go-to piece of clothing?

KC: A black t-shirt. You can pair it with anything and it will never go out of style. 

CF: What is something you would never be caught dead in?

KC: I would never wear baggy khaki pants because it doesn’t fit my body type.

CF: What is your favorite accessory?

KC: I love my Emporio Armani silver watch, it can really tie together an entire look and look very masculine.

How To: To achieve this Fashionisto’s look, take a classic pair of jeans and roll them up. Afterwards, grab your favorite graphic-tee or plain tee and pair with a blazer of your choice or a classic jacket. This look would look perfect with a fedora if you own one.

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Eric Suen

Often times men feel like they can’t experiment with fashion; however, meet this Fashionisto who can prove them wrong. He takes a classic look such as a button-down and a tie and makes it his own (not to mention colorful and trendy as well). His look is sleek and modern, yet we are still able to see parts of his personality shine through. Overall, this Fashionisto is ready to take on the world with this look.

Name:
 Eric Suen

Major:
 Economics

Year:
 Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Eric Suen: I would have to say that I have a mixture of a lot of things but I definitely have a preppy influence to my style. Additionally, I really like to dress modern. I really like to suit up and dress up.

CF: What is a staple in your collection?

ES: My watch and my glasses. I feel naked without both of these and I feel like they tie my entire look together. I wear these red glasses for more casual occasions and I have a black pair that I wear for more formal occasions.  

CF: What is on your wishlist?

ES: I really want a tailored or fitted suit from J.Crew. Those suits fit my body type better since I am on the thinner side. A navy blue one would be my first pick. 

CF: What are some of your favorite trends right now?

ES: I really like sharp colors such as turquoise and red. I’m also a huge fan of the rolled up pants and slicked back hair look. 

CF: What’s something you would never be caught dead in?

ES: I would never be caught dead in pajamas or sweatpants. When I go out, I like to look composed. 

CF: Where do you get your fashion inspiration from?

ES: I get a lot of my inspiration from J.Crew. I love everything they have from their suits to their more modern pieces like cuffed pants. I also get a lot of influence from my dad, believe it or not. We are both kind of shopaholics so we use that time to bond. I like to dress in a way that reflects by personality as well. 

How To: To achieve this Fashionisto’s look, grab brown shoes to start off the look. Then, grab a tie that fits your personality in order to finish off your look. Then take your favorite pants and try something new by rolling up and cuffing the bottom to be more on trend for this upcoming summer.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Sasha Jelan

The ’90s have made a huge splash this season and monochrome is no exception. This Fashionista sported a monochrome look that is effortless and most importantly, comfortable. Additionally, another huge trend at the moment is tying a sweater around the waist. This is great for covering up shorts that are too short or to complete a look and give it a more grungy vibe. This Fashionista chose to pair bright pink shoes with her monochrome look to add variety. Be sure to check out how to achieve this look at the end to channel your inner decade’s attire!

Name:
 Sasha Jelan

Major:
 Photography

Year:
 Junior

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Sasha Jelan: I like to wear whatever is comfortable. I’m really big into the cut of clothing. However, I do really like neutrals. I am also not a super colorful dresser.

CF: Where do you get your fashion inspiration?

SJ: Karla’s Closet, Tumblr and I like to look at movies and decades. My favorite decade is the ’70s for sure. I think that the ’90s is too common since that’s what everyone is doing now. 

CF: What is your go-to piece of clothing?

SJ: You can never go wrong with a light wash pair of high-waisted jeans. Additionally, white sneakers and a nice little button-up are a must. 

CF: What is something you would never be caught dead in?

SJ: Avant garde clothing or even runway clothes. Sometimes they are too much. Also, meat.

CF: How do you like to accessorize? 

SJ: I only like gold. That being said, I like to keep it really simple, classic and small. 

How To: To imitate this Fashionista’s look, pick a color of your choice and stick with it. Try a cotton crop top to achieve ultimate comfort. Don’t forget a pop of color with your shoes!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Lauren Barth

Spring is in full swing, and what better way to welcome spring than to embrace pastels and sunshine? When it comes to springtime fashion you can never have to much oxford going on. Whether it be oxford shoes or oxford button-down shirts, this look is perfect for a spring look that can accommodate various styles and weather patterns. This Fashionista, stayed true to her spring pastels and chose to opt for a spring appropriate oxford button-down and paired it with a light mesh sweater. This look is not only light and perfect for days that aren’t as warm as we hoped, but also a trend that has carried over seasons. While seasons may come and go, pastels will always be true to spring. Check out this Fashionista’s edgy look on spring that can utilize any oxfords or pastels in your wardrobe.

Name:
 Lauren Barth

Major:
 Business Administration

Year:
 Freshman

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Lauren Barth: I definitely have a sporty feel with some edge. My style has a lot of menswear inspiration as well. 

CF: What is a staple in your collection?

LB: Oxford shoes for sure. I also have this black moto jacket from H&M that I can literally wear with anything.

CF: What is on your wishlist?

LB: I’m on the lookout for a good pair of black overall shorts. I want the longer ones that go mid-length down the thigh. I think those are more high fashion then the shorter ones.

CF: What are some of your favorite trends right now?

LB: I really like the pastels. As you can tell, this shirt I’m wearing today has pastels and I think they are so easy to work into an outfit. I’m also really big into Zara’s origami skirts or also called wrap skirts.

CF: What’s something you would never be caught dead in?

LB: Peasant blouses with the poofy shoulders. That to me looks like a Halloween look. Also, Birkenstocks. I never understood why that became a trend. 

How To: To achieve this Fashionista’s look, pair your favorite oxfords with a button-down pastel blouse to achieve a true springtime look. If you want to make it edgier, try topping off your button-down with a weather appropriate sweater that complements this look.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Tayla Camp

A leather jacket is truly a girl’s best friend. A leather jacket can complete a look and not to mention keep you warm on those cool mornings. This Fashionista’s motto is “all-black everything.” While black clothing knows no season, the beauty of black is that it can be paired with anything. This Fashionista’s goth-inspired look illustrates that goth can be fashionable and always on trend. Check out this Fashionista’s simple yet sleek all-black look that can be imitated by anyone.

Name:
 Tayla Camp

Major:
 History and Communications

Year:
 Senior

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Tayla Camp: I like to think of myself as a hippie goth. I wear black and only black, but I think it has a slight hipster feel to it. 

CF: What is on your fashion wishlist?

TC: I have been dying to get a pair of black Agyness Deyn Dr. Martens. I have been trying to find them in my size everywhere. 

CF: What is your go-to piece of clothing?

TC: I have been really big into fashion leather utility belts. I typically will buy one, take it home, sew patches on it and make it my own as much as possible. 

CF: Where are your favorite places to shop?

TC: I do the majority of my shopping at music festivals. For example, music festivals such as Serenity and Gathering. I also really like to shop at Lip Service in LA and of course Camden Town in London. 

CF: Who are some Fashionistas/os that you follow?

TC: I’m in love with this blogger who is from Sweden, her Tumblr name is Murderotic. Her style influences me so much and she taught me not to care about what I wear. Also, she inspired me to make my own synthetic dreads that I typically wear in the summertime. 

How To: To imitate this Fashionista’s look, grab your signature detailed black leather jacket and pair it with a summer appropriate top. To finish the look, grab a pair of high-waisted leggings or pants of your choice and you’re ready for your day!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Renee Swanberg

Rule number one about fashion: there are no rules in fashion. People tend to think that you have to match perfectly for it to be considered fashion, however that’s not always the case. Mixing and matching is a great way to express your personality and add dynamism to your outfit. This Fashionista’s look is a great mix of different trends happening at the moment. She pairs her favorite ’90s inspired denim jacket with statement socks. It’s alright to mix different patterns or even be bold. When it comes to fashion, go bold or go home, and this Fashionista definitely went bold —a style we are loving this spring.

Name:
 Renee Swanberg

Major:
 Public Relations

Year: 
Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Renee Swanberg: I always dress in black. I am very minimalistic when I dress, I am not very big on patterns. My style is definitely grungy and I love to incorporate all the nerdy ’90s stuff. 

CF: What is a staple in your collection?

RS: My black Panama style hat. The one I’m wearing is from Urban Outfitters. I wear this hat almost everyday. 

CF: What is on your fashion wishlist?

RS: I would kill for the red studded Valentino pumps.

CF: What are your favorite brands/styles?

RS: ASOS, Topshop, Nasty Gal, Tobi, H&M and the local shop for USC’s campus called Kissa. 

CF: What are you wearing today?

RS: I’m wearing my mom’s vintage jean jacket from the ’80s. My black dress is from H&M. My hat, purse and shoes are all from Urban Outfitters. Lastly, my favorite piece are my socks and those are from ASOS. 

How To: To imitate this Fashionista’s look, try pairing your favorite ’90s trends with a big floppy hat. Additionally, don’t be afraid mix and match different trends. Try adding a pair of bold socks to your footwear!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Angie Lopez-Videla

Now that the spring break is over and summer is teasing us, it’s time to express with less. The weather is warming up so it’s time to ditch those chunky sweaters and bring out your favorite T-shirt and short combos. Late spring and summer is known for the more casual bohemian style that is perfect for a casual day, especially in southern California. This Fashionista channels her inner bohemian style that dates back to her roots from Rio de Janeiro. Check out her Bob Marley inspired style that is perfect for a casual day of thrifting in the city of Los Angeles.

Name:
 Angie Lopez-Videla

Major:
 Philosophy

Year:
 Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Angie Lopez-Videla: I definitely have a bohemian feel in my style and when I shop but I also like edgy things. I like to think it’s a mix of bohemian and rocker. 

CF: What is a staple in your collection?

ALV: Band T-shirts. I have so many that I collected over the years and I like to cut them up and wear them year round. Sometimes I’ll mix and match them with different styles and outfits make them fun.

CF: What is on your wishlist?

ALV: I really want a pair of Timberland boots. I’m always looking for a new pair of boots and it’s perfect for the weather in Los Angeles since it’s colder in the evenings and that’s all year round. 

CF: How would you say your style changes from Rio de Janeiro to Los Angeles?

ALV: In Brazil, I feel as though my style is super laid back all the time and I think that’s where I get a lot of my bohemian style influence for Los Angeles.

CF: What’s something you would never be caught dead in?

ALV: Rhinestones. That includes jeans, shirts, dresses or anything else you can think of.  

How To: To achieve this Fashionista’s look, try pairing a simple graphic T-shirt with your favorite high-waisted shorts. Don’t forget to top off the look with a stand out cross-body bag.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Liz Harb

Now that winter is nearing its end and we are in between fashion seasons, how do we ease the transition? It’s still chilly out but you are itching to start the spring trends but don’t want to overdo it. Ladies, sometimes less is more. In this Fashionista’s look, the primary focus is on the vest. By keeping it simple, her bracelet is a nice touch that pulls the entire look together. Additionally, a vest is the perfect transition between the seasons that’s comfortable and trendy. This kind of look is perfect for those in between season looks that has everyone stumped.

Name:
 Liz Harb

Major:
 Economics

Year:
 Senior

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Liz Harb: I like dark colors and neon but usually I dress how I feel. I like a dark outfit with a pop of color. I like to think my style is polished with a rocker vibe.

CF: What is on your fashion wishlist?

LH: The Max Mara oversized coat. It’s the one Kim Kardashian has been wearing. 

CF: What is your go-to piece of clothing?

LH: Skinny jeans, cute top and heels. Anybody can pull it off. Also, confidence is the most flattering thing a girl could wear. Without confidence, you can’t complete a look.

CF: What’s your favorite brand/style?

LH: I like Express, Zara and Burberry. Express is perfect for your basic pieces that you can mix and match and they have clothing ranging from going out to professional. Additionally, Zara is affordable and trendy and Burberry is good when you want to splurge a little. 

CF: How would you say your style varies from living in San Jose to living in Chicago?

LH: Style in San Jose is a lot more relaxed and boho, which I am not used to. So I have been incorporating more boho in my wardrobe and planning on adapting to the culture and clothing style while I’m there. 

CF: Who are some Fashionistas/os that you follow?

LH: I love Kerry Washington, Lupita Nyong’o and Kanye West. I especially admire Kanye’s taste, he always looks so polished and put together. 

How To: To imitate this Fashionista’s look, try pairing a neutral top of your choice with a fur vest to complement it. Additionally, wrap bracelets are all the rage right now. Try a neutral wrap bracelet that will be perfect for any outfit you have.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Reni Somoye

One week the weather feels like it’s summertime and the next week the weather is too chilly for your liking. How do you accommodate the changing weather? Try going for a few simple basics in your wardrobe. For instance, leggings are incredibly versatile and can be worn for different occasions. For this Fashionista, her personal favorite is her black leather jacket that is a staple in her collection. While she likes to stick to neutrals, she sure knows how to accommodate multiple weather patterns by adding a printed blouse and simple booties. Check out this Fashionista’s simple, but edgy look that is perfect for those days where you just don’t know how to dress for the weather.

Name:
 Reni Somoye

Major: 
Architecture

Year:
 Senior

CollegeFashionista: What’s something you would never be caught dead in?

Reni Somoye: Definitely Crocs, but if I had to choose apparel it would be neon. I’m not a fan of neon clothing whatsoever. 

CF: What’s on your fashion wishlist?

RS: There is this new style where people where these Nike Rosche shoes that can be worn with every outfit. I would really like a pair of those to try that style. Additionally, since the warmer months are creeping up, I would really like a black or white pleated skirt.

CF: Do you follow any fashion bloggers or websites?

RS: I follow a couple of Fashionistas on Instagram or even people who I think exhibit great fashion taste. Whenever I like something I usually screenshot and see if I can emulate it. 

CF: What is a must-have in your collection?

RS: Leggings, they are a must. I have a pair that are of a thicker material and that are appropriate for different occasions such as interviews or even class. I also think you can never go wrong with a silver watch and studded earrings. 

How To: To achieve a similar look, find a leather jacket that best suits your taste. Don’t be afraid to go bold underneath your jacket. Color is always in style no matter what season it is. Additionally, a pair of leggings will never fail you. It’s always wise to invest in a great pair of leggings since they are incredibly versatile.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Shae Maeda

Crop tops are all the rage right now thanks to Miley Cyrus, but how can you incorporate them into your wardrobe tastefully? By choosing a plain crop top and a high-waisted skirt, you’re on the right track. Don’t forget your jacket for those chilly classrooms and for those extremely cold days, pair that outfit with your favorite tights and spring time booties. Don’t forget, with a look like this, dainty jewelry is a must! Check out this Fashionista’s springtime inspired look with her favorite military jacket and floral skirt!

Name:
 Shae Maeda

Major:
 Psychology

Year:
 Junior

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Shae Maeda: Casual but cute. I don’t want to dress over the top. I like to style simple things like my dainty jewelry or neutrals with something more bold like a print or something textured. 

CF: What is a staple in your collection?

SM: My rings. I never take them off and they go with everything since they are a part of me. They’re silver so it also goes with all my outfit choices.

CF: Do you follow any trends or fashion bloggers?

SM: I like to follow the fashion blogger Song of Style. Additionally, I like to follow a few Instagram Fashionistas such as Rumi Neely. I also really like Clothesencounters on YouTube, her videos are so compelling!

CF: What’s your favorite item in your wardrobe right now?

SM: My military jacket from H&M since it’s so versatile and it goes with everything.

CF: What’s on your fashion wishlist? 

SM: The classic Céline leather tote bag in black, who doesn’t want this bag? 

How To: To imitate this Fashionista’s look, opt for a print skirt perfect for spring and top it off with your favorite military jacket to tie the whole look together. Remember, the tights and booties are optional depending on the weather in your region! Don’t be afraid to experiment with color since this is a fairly neutral look.