Jane Haynes – CollegeFashionista

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Megan O’Mahony

Entering campus to search for the inspiration to my last ever post for CollegeFashionista, I was adamant that my final subject would not only define the style savvy which FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT demands, but would also embody everything I love about a true CollegeFashionista – and I found her in the form of this Arts student. While her take on the current stripe trend proves her style-conscious and fashion-forward status, her penchant for originality shines through by teaming trends with her favourite colour palette and beloved Converse sneakers. Indeed, on the subject of style tips and advice to live by, she offered up a shiny pearl of fashion wisdom: don’t focus on following the trends and impressing others; dress to suit yourself and your personality will carry your look. The results of living by such a style motto are clear for all to see, as she manages to combine classic, on-trend stripes with her favourite colours and staple pieces to pull off a look which is not only the epitome of campus comfort, but which is also so chic and unique.

Name: Megan O’Mahony

Major: Arts

Year: One

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Megan O’Mahony: I would describe it as alternative with very indie influences. I love leather and suede and tend to go for a lot of browns and very earthy colour palettes. I like to team feminine pieces with something a little more rough around the edges for a really eclectic finish.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

MOM: I would take a lot of inspiration from my favourite bands, particularly indie singers and performers. In terms of icons, I love the style of Felicity Jones and Zooey Deschanel — they are always dressed very uniquely.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

MOM: The brown suede Converse that I am wearing today. I literally wear them all the time with everything, from girly dresses to jeans. They are my absolute wardrobe staple — I don’t know what I would do without them!

CF: Do you have a particular style tip that you would like to pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

MOM: I think that how you dress is an expression of yourself and your personality, so it is important to dress to suit yourself. Personal style is not about trying hard to impress other people; it is about capturing who you are and how you want to portray that to the world.

How To: There is no escaping the stripe trend at the moment, but just because something is on-trend, does not mean you have to settle for a generic look. This Fashionista proves this by teaming her oversized striped jumper with her favourite earthy colour palette. Get the perfect start to capturing her look with this navy and white striped jumper dress from Tommy Hilfiger at ASOS. Neutral, earthy shades never lose their chic, and so consider this beige trench coat from River Island an investment for all seasons, as well as the perfect complement to those stripes. Complete the casual chic look with every student’s favourite, the Converse; these brown leather sneakers are perfect to complete the outfit.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Lianne Hickey

The essence of FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT is unique, original style which stands out head and shoulders above the rest. No matter the occasion, the circumstances or the environment, nothing compromises these Fashionistas’ inherent creative flair and today’s Fashionista certainly qualifies in her dramatic gothic get-up. While she was initially a little camera-shy given the fact that a hectic exam schedule has seen her abandon her usual make-up routine and signature red lipstick, I think we can all agree that her style and overall look is no less striking. Describing her style as somewhere between “a little Parisian woman on a bicycle and a full-on Goth” and naming her must-have piece as a retro ‘80s leather jacket with huge puffy shoulders, today’s outfit undoubtedly is only providing a snapshot of her wonderfully eclectic fashion tastes. From her unique style, to tips on vintage shopping and outfit customising, she spotlights all that is fabulous about originality in fashion.

Name: Lianne Hickey

Major: Art History and English

Year: Three

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Lianne Hickey: My style is quite unique — it alternates from a little Parisian woman on a bicycle to a full-on Goth. I find it hard to be casual; usually I have a full face of make-up on and dramatic red lipstick.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

LH: I don’t really have a specific icon or follow trends. I find inspiration all around me from my friends, browsing online and rummaging through charity shops.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

LH: This ‘80s leather coat with big puffy sleeves that I bought in a charity shop for five euro. It was such a bargain and I wear it all of the time – I don’t know what I would do without it.

CF: Do you have any advice for shopping vintage?

LH: Shopping vintage is great but customising your clothes is a great idea for those who like their style original and unique. Even just have a look around the high street sales and think of ways to wear something differently. Always think outside the box.

CF: Do you have a particular style tip that you would like to pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

LH: Don’t be afraid to clash – if you get it right it can look amazing.

How To: This Fashionista knows the power of a black overcoat in striking a dramatic style statement. Follow her lead and recreate her gothic look with this loose boyfriend coat by Liquorish at ASOS. Her beaded detail flatforms add a touch of funky geek chic to her look and are a refreshing change to the Docs and biker boots which are so typical of the gothic look. Get her look with these black suedette flatforms from Boohoo.com. She nails the look by balancing her dramatic coat and shoes with more understated pieces, opting for a pair of simple sheer tights and a beige oversized sweater. This Zara sweater will provide the perfect contrast against the dominant black palette of the outfit.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Maeve Bradley

While we pride ourselves on being fashion-forward campus trend-setters, some days we CollegeFashionistas wake up wanting nothing more than to reach for the comfy, effortless option – tracksuit and Uggs, anyone? While our better judgement will usually provide us with the motivation needed to avoid said fashion malfunction, it cannot be denied that it is often a struggle to find an outfit which will provide comfort while ensuring we make a unique fashion statement. Well, say Hallelujah, because today’s Fashionista is setting the example, striking a funky, eclectic statement in this gorgeous tunic and pixie boots. Her love for vintage and originality coupled with a preference for casual and comfy allows her to capture the perfect campus look, whether cooped up studying in the library or meeting friends for lunch. Citing her icon as the inimitable Alexa Chung, famed for always ‘getting it right’ no matter what the occasion, she has certainly been following her fashion notes closely. This Fashionista sets herself apart from the pack with an eclectic, unique fashion sense which not only mixes comfort and style, but also fuses the old and the new. CollegeFashionistas, take note!

Name: Maeve Bradley

Major: Medicine

Year: Two

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Maeve Bradley: I would describe it as being very vintage or vintage-inspired. I tend not to follow current trends and I don’t really read magazines – I prefer to work out my own unique style from what I find in stores.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

MB: In terms of icons, I love Alexa Chung’s style and I always look her up on the internet to see what she’s wearing. Rachel Bilson has fab style also.

CF: Are you influenced by the style you see around your campus?

MB: Yes, definitely. I think you always sit up and take notice when you come across someone who has really put an effort into their outfit of a day – that in itself is inspiring to make more of an effort with your own style.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

MB: My jewellery, specifically earrings. It’s the one part of my outfit that I always make a really big effort with. I have so much of it, including some pieces passed down from my mother and my grandmother as well so I like to incorporate them into my outfits as much as I can.

CF: Do you have a particular style tip that you would like to pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

MB: No matter what the occasion it always pays to put in an effort with your clothes and overall image.

How To: For all those who struggle to balance comfort with fashion, this Fashionista has found the solution to all of your problems with this loose, belted tunic. Recreate the geometric-patterned look with this colour block tunic from Motel Veronica at ASOS, tying at the waist with a skinny belt to add structure, or opt for a dressier take on the look with this long-sleeved tunic from New Look. Her pixie boots give a distinctly bohemian feel to the outfit, while her fringed neck scarf adds an eclectic touch to her overall look. Steal her style with these Office ankle boots and this paisley print scarf from Accessorize.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Carmel Desmond

Less is more. To say that you are blue in the face from hearing this familiar line would be an understatement, right? Well, like all golden nuggets of fashion advice we receive from the stylists’ or the designers’ mouths, there is a very good reason for its repetition. And today’s FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT proves exactly why. Upon sight of this minimalist get-up, Kate Middleton immediately popped into my head, which strikes just the right balance between campus casual and chic sophistication. Her love for the Parisian-inspired simply oozes from today’s outfit as she teams a structured pair of skinnies with a complementary blazer, completing with a basic T-shirt, pumps and simple clutch purse. In the midst of the sea of chain print and Aztec patterns dominating campus style right now, this homage to classic, simple minimalism is a refreshing alternative.

Name: Carmel Desmond

Major: Arts

Year: Three

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Carmel Desmond: I would describe it as very chic. I adore that classic minimalist French look – sophisticated, feminine and classy.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

CD: I would draw a lot of inspiration from what I see in fashion magazines and on TV. I would also look to celebrity style to inspire my own, particularly Diane Kruger and Olivia Palermo – they do minimal chic so well and always look unique and striking regardless of whether they are attending a red carpet event or just out and about.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

CD: The one item I could not live without is an LBD. Every girl should have one hanging in their wardrobe – it is the ultimate failsafe item.

CF: If there was one piece of style advice you could pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere, what would it be?

CD: The cardinal rule – less is more.

How To: If you are not by now aware of how valuable an asset a basic black blazer can be to your wardrobe then today’s Fashionista is sure to have you convinced. Not only does its structured shape complement her skinnies but it also adds a chic finish to her campus look. Hit up Zara, Princess Kate’s high street favourite, to emulate the look with this zip detail black blazer. While she adds a splash of colour with her skinny jeans, this Fashionista is sure to reflect her penchant for the muted minimalist look by opting for a dark shade of blue. Complete her look by teaming with a basic T-shirt and these cute boat shoes from River Island, which offer a more sophisticated alternative to the pump.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Clíona Ní Líatháin

With biting winds and pesky April showers dogging students throughout study month, I have had to pinch myself repeatedly in order to remind myself that we are actually in full spring swing. While I may have gotten stuck in today’s downpour, luckily the wake-up call was this week’s Fashionista whose perfect pastel ensemble stood out with a pop. This Fashionista’s love for pretty, girly fashion is clear from the offset, as is the focus on colour coordination which she lists an important characteristic of her style. Best of all though, is that she shows you can work any piece, even a typically dressier garment, to suit any occasion. While her love of girly fashion stands out in these smart shorts, by dressing down with a simple cardigan and pumps she manages to pull off a look that is cute and perfect for campus.

Name: Clíona Ní Líatháin

Major: Arts

Year: Three

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Clíona Ní Líatháin: I would describe it as very feminine – I like the pretty, girly look. I adore vintage and build my outfits around very classical or vintage-inspired looks. Colour coordination is also a big feature to my style.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

CNL: I don’t pay any particular attention to trends or what appears in fashion magazines. I like to feel out my own unique style from experimenting. I draw most of my fashion influence from vintage looks and shops, but the ultimate style icon for me is Audrey Hepburn.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

CNL: I would have to say shorts. They are really versatile, you can dress them up or dress them down. They suit all occasions and are ultra-feminine.

CF: Do you have a particular style tip that you would like to pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

CNL: I would say it is really important to always dress in clothes that flatter your figure.

How To: A pair of dress shorts can add a touch of chic sophistication to any look, whether teaming with flats for campus or some heels for an evening look. Make like today’s Fashionista and create the perfect pastel look with these pretty pale pink shorts from New Look. A casual cardigan is a cute way to complement her more formal shorts and she opts for a pastel mint shade to complete a perfect spring look. True to her love for all that is girly and feminine in fashion she finishes the look with a pair of pretty turquoise ballerina pumps in matching pastels. Balance out the pastel colour palette like her with this quilted cream tote from River Island.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Jenny O’Sullivan

During a week of distinctly wintry weather when the UCC campus and its students have been subjected to everything from gale force winds to hail stones, I managed to find a ray of sunshine and a burst of colour to brighten up proceedings through this week’s FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT. This Fashionista stood out a mile from her peers due to the mixture of her strikingly cheerful colour palette and the eclectic mix of styles and themes in her outfit. She identifies femininity as a key to her style while she gives a nod to the popular sports luxe trend to add a contrasting and kitsch slant to the outfit. Her striking outfit proves her nugget of fashion advice all too true — the importance of embracing your own style and individuality in fashion is paramount.

Name: Jennifer O’Sullivan

Major: Professional Diploma in Education

Year: One

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Jennifer O’Sullivan: I would describe my style as a tad eccentric at times, which I think comes from the musician in me. It has definite vintage influences and, although I usually use a lot of colour, I also love the striking impact of black and white.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

JOS: My style is drawn from various influences and eras. While I adore classic Victorian fashion I will mix it with my favourite modern looks and pieces to make my own distinctive style. I take inspiration from fashion magazines and television, as well as street style, and experiment with and incorporate what I like into my own style.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

JOS: I would have to say dresses. I feel that they are the ultimate way to make a feminine statement in fashion and are a key characteristic of my style, along with skirts.

CF: What tip would you give for shopping vintage?

JOS: Always have a good search online. When you know your style really well and know what to look for, often you can get better results by trawling through the internet. Having said that, there are some good vintage stores in Cork, if you know where to look. Turquoise Flamingo is a personal favourite.

CF: Do you have a particular style tip that you would like to pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

JOS: Always stay true to yourself and your own style – it is important to embrace your individuality and be proud to stand out and be different.

How To: Few Fashionistas can resist the sporty chic look of the moment which today’s Fashionista perfects through her cute bright yellow anorak. Get the look with this cropped sleeve bomber jacket from New Look which will add that touch of sports luxe to even the most feminine outfit. The floral skirt is the ultimate feminine statement, according to this Fashionista. Follow her lead and team your sports jacket with this pink patterned number from ASOS to make a girly contrast. This Fashionista’s use of accessories sets her style apart, adding a funky and kitsch edge which makes it unique. Steal her style with this vibrant neck tie from Accessorize to make maximum impact with the minor detail. A cute pair of ballerina pumps will complete this ultra-cute and girly get-up.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Danielle Callaghan

Strolling through campus this week on the prowl for my latest Fashionista, I know that with the first week of the study month is full swing I am going to have the odds against me. One glance around campus is enough to inform me that while the majority of students will be locked up in the library, the stress of the month that is in it has brought out far too many of the tracksuit-and-Uggs brigade. However, I am in no way discouraged, as I know that UCC will always turn up a gem. And I am so right this time.

The only way to describe this week’s FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT, with her funky auburn locks and unique look, is as a vintage queen. Donning a pair of camel leather leggings, a light brown sheepskin overcoat and some seriously stylish tortoise print sunglasses, a more eclectic look I have not met throughout my entire time as a Style Guru. She champions the vintage cause, informing me when I compliment her gorgeous brown weekender bag that it cost her a mere few euro in a charity shop, which is also where her favourite overcoat is from. She strikes a balance between dressing to suit her colouring, expressing her artistic side and capturing the perfect retro look from her favourite fashion era, proving her style tip right — never be afraid to have fun with fashion.

Name: Danielle Callaghan

Major: Masters in Contemporary Religions

Year: One

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Danielle Callaghan: My style is quite random and unique – I like to experiment and put random things together. I wear a lot of vintage, and I love leather and tailoring. There would be big ‘60s and ‘70s influences in my style also.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

DC: I have to say my older sister. She has the nicest clothes and she is crazy with her style. While I don’t have a particular icon, anyone who dressed well from the ‘60s or the ‘70s eras would be inspiring to me.

CF: Could you talk a little bit about today’s outfit and why you chose it?

DC: This jacket is like my second skin, I love it and I always wear it. I chose these brown leather leggings because I just adore leather. Then I chose this robot graphic T-shirt because it is new and I felt like wearing something new today.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

DC: This coat that I am wearing. I bought it at a charity shop a while back and I always get cold so it keeps me warm!

CF: What tip would you give for shopping vintage?

DC: Always make sure the thing actually fits, always try it on first. You could find something amazing but if it doesn’t fit you, it is not really a bargain or a good find.

CF: Do you have a particular style tip that you would like to pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

DC: don’t be afraid to play around with fashion, to experiment and have fun.

How To: While many of this Fashionista’s pieces are vintage treasures, you can easily emulate her eclectic and funky look with garments from the high street. I love how she has diverted away from the safety of the black legging with this brown leather pair to make a unique fashion statement. Steal her style with these brown leggings from River Island and opt for the rolled-up ankle she has chosen. If, like today’s Fashionista, you are prone to the chill of the April showers, opt for this stunning chestnut brown sheepskin coat from ASOS to act as the focal point of your look. While her oversized bag cost her a mere few euro in a charity shop, a Batchel bag from the Cambridge Satchel Company is a dead ringer for hers and will prove valuable investment for your wardrobe. Throw on a pair of retro tortoise print sunglasses to add some '70s cool and complete the look.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Niamh O’Sullivan

With the latest trends and the recent spell of good weather seeing campus transform into a flurry of floral prints and vibrant colour pops, at some moments it is difficult to remember that we are still smack in the middle, and spring and summer is quite a way off. While we may feel tempted to don our favourite shorts and daringly bare our midriffs at the first sign of the sun, those April showers are a constant threat over our wardrobe choices! The subject of today’s FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT stood out to me straight away; aside from rocking one of the chicest looks I have seen on campus all season, I love how she has incorporated the colour block skinny jean trend into her look in a way which both suits her unique personal style and is suited to anything the unpredictable spring weather may bring. She proves that you can never go wrong with your favourite wardrobe staples by teaming her black blazer with these flat knee high boots, and making the look pop with some striking red skinnies. By using simple but key accessories to finish off a structured look in complementary colours she is the epitome of campus sophistication.

Name: Niamh O’Sullivan

Major: Nutritional Science

Year: Four

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Niamh O’Sullivan: I would describe it as quite unique. I like to do my own thing and go by my own rules with fashion. I generally sway more towards a dressier look, but some days I’ll rock up in my Converse and some casual shorts and funky tights – it all depends on how I feel on the day, it’s a bit of a mix.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

NOS: Mostly I get my style inspiration from a mix of magazines and street style. The fashion on campus is amazing also recently, and you can always get some great outfit inspiration just from looking at the people around you. For instance, you might pass somebody wearing an item you have in your own wardrobe but they are wearing it in a way you never would have imagined. Inspiration is everywhere, you just need to look around you.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory that you could not live without, what would it be?

NOS: I would have to say this black jacket I am wearing today. It is so versatile; I can wear it by day, by night, just around campus or out for dinner. I wear it all of the time.

CF: Is there any style tip which you live by that you could pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

NOS: I always say that there is no such thing as being ‘too dressed up.’ If you are comfortable with your style and wear it with confidence, embrace it.

How To: This Fashionista’s outfit is the epitome of slick, sophisticated campus chic and she uses some key, structured wardrobe basics to pull off the look. Her dark red high-waisted skinnies add the perfect colour pop to the tans and blacks in the rest of her outfit. Steal her style with these burgundy skinnies from New Look. While spring has been truly sprung, do not surrender your boots to the back of the wardrobe in favour for your pumps just yet. As this Fashionista proves, nothing says chic like the skinny jean and knee high boots pairing, especially with a complementary colour palette such as this one of reds and tans. Get the look with these gorgeous tan knee high boots from ALDO, perfect for a sophisticated campus look. The versatility of a black blazer knows no bounds, as this Fashionista can vouch for; consider this Zara blazer with stud detail an investment that will rock every look from bright pastels to this Fashionista’s darker tones. Finish off the look with this black roll top bag from Boohoo.com to capture campus chic.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Yvonne McEvoy

The saying goes in UCC, that the second you hit study month, the sun is guaranteed to be splitting the stones; and as it did for every year of my study, so the saying is currently living up to its promises. Yes, “study weather” is upon us in Cork and one knock-on effect of the sun splitting the stones is the colourful, fun and flirty fashion which is currently being sported around campus. It appears everyone is embracing the sunshine in their feel-good get-ups, and not least of all today’s Fashionista. Her coral skinnies and loosely hanging denim shirt channel an effortlessly cool but cheerful campus chic, with espadrilles and a cool pair of aviators setting off a distinctly spring-inspired look. Such a melee of vibrant colours and lighter fabrics on campus can only signal one thing: the true arrival of spring and a hint of the fun and fearless campus fashion yet to come.

Name: Yvonne McEvoy

Major: Nursing

Year: Four

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Yvonne McEvoy: I would describe it as quite casual; I tend to go for comfort over fashion. I lived in London for three months as part of my college placement last year and I think that has had a major impact on my style and my take on trends.

CF: From whom or where do you get your fashion inspiration?

YM: I take a lot of inspiration from celebrities and people in the public eye. I really admire Kate Middleton’s style and how she always manages to look chic in all situations and occasions. For the most part, I tend to just pick up and experiment with what stands out to me in high street stores, but I would also take inspiration from street style.

CF: Could you talk about today’s outfit and why you chose it?

YM: I chose this outfit because it is casual and comfortable, but also is suited to the warm weather we are experiencing at the moment. I think a denim shirt has a real cool factor about it, no matter what you team it with and it goes with every colour. I love the colour block trend of the moment so I chose these coral skinny jeans, and then teamed them with these espadrilles, again, as they are a comfortable and casual option but also it is warm enough to wear them on campus.

CF: Is there any style tip that you live by and would like to pass on to our readers?

YM: I think once you are comfortable in yourself with your style, and with what you are wearing you can never go wrong with fashion in my eyes.

How To: This Fashionista knows how to make an effortlessly cool and chic fashion statement by incorporating casual comfort with her favourite seasonal trends. She has chosen an array of neutral shades and pieces which not only work perfectly together, but will prove essential spring wardrobe staples. New Look is the first port of call for those of you looking to emulate this perfect colour pop. These gorgeous coral skinnies will take you anywhere this season, whether teaming with neutral denim like today’s Fashionista, or a bright colour clash. Whether you go for the buttoned-up look, opt for a cute crop knot or leave it open and hanging like today’s Fashionista, a denim shirt is the last word in campus cool. Capture the chic denim look with this dark denim shirt from Zara and experiment to suit your style. Finally, embrace the warm weather (while it lasts) in a pair of espadrilles to complete your look. While this Fashionista has opted for a pair of trendy TOMS in navy and white to set off the bright coral of her jeans, a complementary colour clash would rock this look also.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Annie Birn

While at times it is easy to be swept away by the latest trends, it is important to remember that a Fashionista’s true style is built from originality, uniqueness and above all knowing what works for you. This pearl of wisdom is well and truly attested to by today’s Fashionista, who stresses that comfort is just as important as style. This is clear from her choice of outfit for today’s FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT; while others may have been tempted to tap into the colour block trend of the season with a vibrant blazer, she stays unique to her own style and strikes a neutral balance by opting for browns and tans. While she tackles the tricky transition from early spring with a neutral palette, she simultaneously frames this gorgeous cornflower blue floral midi skirt as the focal point of her look. It only follows from toting this gorgeous vintage leather crossover bag that this Fashionista also has some priceless advice on shopping vintage, which is an important aspect to both her style and that of any Fashionista with a similar love for an original and unique fashion sense.

Name: Annie Birn

Major: French and Archaeology

Year: Four

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

AB: I would describe it as casual and comfortable. One overriding feature of my look is that I have to have my feet dry at all times! This really influences my fashion choices – a lot of the time I opt for skirts so that my trouser ends aren’t trailing in the wet! I would say the same applies for when I am going out for a dressier occasion – I like to be comfortable and able to move around with ease.

CF: From whom or where do you draw your fashion inspiration?

AB: I would have to say the singer and musician, Lisa Hannigan. I really admire her eclectic style, especially her love of dresses and floaty, feminine pieces.

CF: If there was one item of clothing or accessory you could not live without, what would it be and why?

AB: A good quality handbag. A relative of mine gave me this handbag as a gift and I get so much use out of it. It is quite old, I had to put a new zip put on it recently, but it works for college and every occasion. Even though it looks a little worse for wear I think that gives it a really vintage feel and look, and the fact that it is tan leather means it goes with everything.

CF: Do you have a tip for shopping vintage?

AB: Leather is always a good item to look out for in vintage stores as I think it only gets better with age. You can find some great leather pieces in vintage stores, especially shoes and handbags; the more distressed or old it is the better, in my opinion.

CF: Do you have a particular style tip that you would like to pass on to CollegeFashionistas everywhere?

AB: No matter what the “fashion” is, if you don’t feel comfortable in what you are wearing it is never a good look. From the minute you step outside the door in the morning before heading to college, if you don’t feel good in your outfit it is only going to get worse as the day goes on, so get to know your style and don’t compromise on comfort for college.

How To: : Florals are the timeless and classic uniform staple of the spring/summer season, adding an instant colour injection to any outfit. I love how this Fashionista has given a fun and feminine floral boost to her sophisticated campus look with this cornflower blue midi skirt. Steal her spring style with this multi-coloured midi skirt from ASOS, the perfect statement piece for any campus outfit this season. This Fashionista adds instant campus sophistication to her look with this camel coloured blazer. While many Fashionistas may be tempted to team her florals with a vibrant colour pop number which is so on-trend at the moment, she strikes a more neutral balance with her choice of colour, ensuring her floral pattern is the statement piece of the look. Get her look with this brown blazer from New Look. Finally, while this Fashionista makes a vintage statement with this leather handbag, channel her style with this gorgeous tassel detail crossover bag from River Island.