Author: Julie Riemersma

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Oshane Howard

This season I can't help but notice the very Andy Warhol/late 60's pop art vibe in fashion. This season color is everywhere! From super saturated hues like teal, red, yellow and orange to their pastel cousins. Also, I just love the up and coming mint shade. This season, pastels seem to be the next trend, but they are really not for everyone or everyday. Jump on the pop art color trend and pick up a pair of colored denim or some bright colored accessories for a noticeable look.

Name: Oshane Howard

Program: Fashion Management

Year: First

CollegeFashionista: What would you say influences you style? Any people or blogs?

Oshane Howard: I’m inspired by artists like Kanye West, Pharell Williams

CF: What stores do you find you mostly shop at?

OH: Usually H&m and Zara.

CF: What is your favorite item in your closet?

OH: My motorcycle jacket.

CF: What's your favorite season to dress for?

OH: Fall because you can wear so many layers.

How To: Grab some bright colored accessories like toques, socks, or if your fancy, pocket  squares. Just be sure to follow or avoid these GQ peacock guidelines here. This Fashionisto rocks his red toque with a simple yet chic jean jacket which is perfect for the  warm days and cool evenings of spring. Also, shearling has been making a steady comeback on the fashion scenes. Add a jaunty patterned scarf in monochrome or a contracting color. Wear with this winter's must have boot, the beat-up motorcycle boot, and you have the makings a superb transitional winter to spring ensemble.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Kellie Jane

Nothing is better than the temperate weather of spring. When it is a balmy 18 degrees Celsius in Toronto (in March!) it is not unusual to see someone dressed in a leather jacket, boots and a scarf walking right next to someone in sandals and a summer dress. The temperature’s been swinging dramatically day to day and the nights are still quite chilly so layers are essential. You can pretty much wear anything you feel like during this season, I guess it just depends on how much you miss your summer wardrobe vs your fall one. For this Fashionista, I think she’d rather have her fall wardrobe and rocks layers on campus.

Name: Kellie Jane

CollegeFashionista: What are some of favorite stores to shop at?

Kellie Jane: Forever 21, H&M and Zara

CF: What are some of your favorite colors to wear?

KJ: Lots of burgundies and greens. Deep and dark colors mostly.

CF: Is there any particular designers or runway trends that you love?

KJ: I like a lot of the high class designers such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Burberry.

CF:What is your favorite season to dress for?

KJ:Fall! I love lots of layers, I love fall colors and you can wear cardigans and jackets to accent your outfits.

CF: Do you prefer vintage or new clothes?

KJ: I love vintage from Salvation Army and various small shops.

How To: To get this Fashionista’s lux look, start with some black pants and add layers in khaki green, rich burgundy and elegant cremes. If your outfit is looking a little plain, add your favorite standout gold or bronze jewelry pieces.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Raquel Simoes

It's that time of the semester where everybody is stressed and just plain done with school, especially if you're in your final year of school. Everyone in my program is in the same boat, and while I am on to “dress up” for school, the understated look really gains appeal. There is something to be said about the “I don't care about style, style.” This Fashonista embodies the art of underdressing for effect. Whether you are just lazy 95% of the time or are consciously emulating the understated dress.

Name: Raquel Simoes

Major: Creative Photography

Year: Final

CollegeFashionista: what is your favorite thing in your wardrobe?

Raquel Simoes: Black plants. Because they go with everything and they are super comfy.

CF: What is your current favorite album?

RS: I've been listening to a lot of Modest Mouse lately, mainly the album Lonesome Crowded West.

CF: What's your favorite recent purchase?

RS: I got these glasses, mainly so I can see. I like that they have a little bit of a cat eye, but I hate cats. They are fancy looking and make me feel important.

CF: Whose style do you find inspiring?

RS: Alison moss heart from dead weather and Patti smith. Cheap and lazy mainly.

How To: To get this grungy-chic look start with your basic black or khaki skinny jean. I love these Urban Outfitters ones as they have the best fit for me. Also these gap ones are great and now come in some super awesome colors. Add a plain T-shirt or tank and some sort of over shirt like this plaid one or a jean shirt. Put on your prescription glasses and leave your hair un-“done” and Voila! Understated chic.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Meg Matera

As the weather warms up on campus, we can finally start to retire our tired winter coats. Fashion this spring can be a lot of fun since we have so many lovely pastel and bright colors to work with. I love this Fashionista’s relaxed and semi-professional look because it's perfect for transitioning from college halls to the workplace

Name: Meg Matera

Major: Creative Photography

Year: Final

CollegeFashionista: Where do you get your style inspiration from?

Meg Matera: I get my inspiration from all around — from ads to even what my friends are wearing. I like to mix and match my own style with pieces that catch my eye, and I'm hoping to expand my wardrobe even further soon.

CF:  What is your current favorite song?

MM: Sunrise by Norah Jones

CF: What are some of your favorite places to shop?

MM: Aritzia, Forever 21, Mendocino, H&M and Mango on occasion.

CF: What is your favorite item in your closet?

MM: I have a few favorites, but my current number one would have to be my striped Wilfred shirt I recently bought from Aritzia. I love the orange/cream/grey combination and the thick bands of color. It's definitely a style on my mind when I shop lately.

How To: To get this look start with your favorite pair of jeans from dark to acid wash. Accessorize with a low boot that matches your belt. Next add a basic tee so that your statement pastel blazer stands out.

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Chris Corridore

I spotted this week's Fashionisto on campus and loved the classic double-breasted cut of his coat paired with a trendy jean button-up. This is a great way to stay on trend without looking disposible. After talking to him I just had to shoot this image somewhere a little bit offbeat. Since Toronto is having some unseasonably warm weather, we walked over to the Humber Arboretum's best kept secret: the grass couch. I have no idea why it's here or who made it but it overlooks the best sunset view and this year a coffee table has been added for outside entertaining ease.

Name: Chris Corridore

Major: Creative Photography

Year: Second year

CollegeFashionista: Where do you get your style inspiration from?

Chris Corridore: I look at a lot of online and hard copy magazines. I also online shopping quite a bit. I read Men's Fitness because I'm jacked, also Good House Keeping; I can always use a good apron.

CF: What's on your wish list right now

CC: I want a really nice suit. In mainly black with maybe some accents in grey. Something I could wear to the Oscars and makes me look important and rich. I'm also looking to purchase a phase 3 501st division clone trooper outfit retail $3000. That's why I can't buy the suit.

CF: Where do you shop at mostly?

CC: I shop at Zara, Top man and Club Monoco. I also shop at Urban Outfitters but not as much.

CF:What is something you couldn't live without?

CC: i couldnt live without Coke; I have to drink at least one can a day. I drink it like water.

How To: This outfit looks so chic since black and blue is a classicly cool combo. Add the accent of grey (one of fall 2012's top colors) and this look perfectly walks the line between hip and hipster. Look for classic cuts of jackets and match it with this style of light blue denim shirt.

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Denver Rodrigues

When I spotted this Fashionisto on a warm winters day, I absolutely loved his ensemble. As some one who watches the runways to predict the coming Toronto trends, I just know that these pants are going to be the next big thing. Burgundy, khaki or emerald green, black (always) and navy blue are some color trends that I spotted on the fall 2012 runways. Double fashion points also since those pants are in a velvet-like courduroy, which is a texture that is becoming all the rage.

Name: Denver Rodrigues

Major: Creative Photography

Year: Final

CollegeFashionista: What is your current favorite song or band?

Denver Rodrigues: I usually like variations in tunes and melodies. Therefore, it really depends on the time of day and the situation. When on a rush, I prefer electronic artists such as Moonbeam, Vibe Tribe and while relaxing, I can listen to Amy Winehouse for hours.

CF: What are some of your favorite color combinations?

DR: I really like contrasting colors like purple and yellow or red and blue.

CF: Who is your style icon or inspiration?

DR: It keeps changing quite often. I get a lot of my inspirations from ad campaigns and I'm very much influenced by European designers.

CF: What is your favorite item in your closet?

DR: I think my boots.

CF: What are some of your favorite places to shop?

DR: H&M, Zara, Club Monaco. etc. I also end up in Value Village often. They tend to always have vibrant and interesting clothing.

How To: To get this look, you’ve got to get some pants in one of the afore mentioned colors. Pair them with a classic graphic tee, vintage computer bag and a structured blazer and you will be looking sharp all over campus!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Teresa Silva

I spotted this Fashionista on campus and I just loved her matchy-matchy teal look. For those who are not aware of the concept of matchy-matchy, it’s something my bestie and I follow. It’s when the little details of your outfit subtly co-ordinate with each other. This does not mean that you dress head-to-toe one color, but rather your outfit is a treasure hunt to find the matching color schemes.

Name: Teresa Silva

Major: Third Year PR and Media at Guelph-Humber

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What is your favorite store to shop at?

Teresa Silva: Urban Outfitters.

CF: Do you have a style icon or anyone you look up to for fashion?

TS: Not really any celebrity, but I have favorite lines. Luella Bartley is my favorite designer. She does cool prints and it’s very girly.

CF: What’s the one thing in your wardrobe that you cannot live without?

TS: My Dr. Martens! I have three pairs and the collection will continue to grow for sure!

CF: What’s your favorite student budget friendly find?

TS: Well I usually go shopping in Erie, Pennsylvania because there are no taxes. I’ve found $3 dresses and cool maxi dresses for $5.

CF: What is on the top of your playlist?

TS: Right now? Probably the Kooks' new album Junk of the Heart.

How To: To get this chic look the main component would be the Dr. Martens. Find a pair in a bright color to stand out or this super cute floral. Next, take the color and reflect it in another article of clothing or accessory like your top as this Fashionisa did.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Kristen Zupanic

On the day before Valentine's Day I spotted this lovely Fashionista working at the free hugs booth on campus. With a smile and her bright shirt she looked perfect for the part. I think her look appears very kindergarten teacher inspired and very Jess from New Girl, minus all the crazy and way more chic.

Name: Kristen Zupanic

Major: PR and Media at Guelph-Humber

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What inspires you in your everyday fashion?

Kristen Zupanic : I kind of just do it day to day depending on what I'm feeling, but I find a lot of it is European based. I really like scarves and cool tights, stuff like that.

CF: What's your favorite store to shop at?

KZ: My favorite store is Anthropologie, but I really love Urban Outfitters too

CF: What's your current favorite song or album.

KZ: This is a new favorite, Gyote! Somebody I used to know, I love that one.

CF: What your favorite accessory or clothing item in your closet?

KZ: Scarfs. Scarfs are my all time favorite.

How To: Start with this season's “it” boot, the motorcycle, in a light brown or black. ALDO has a great selection on sale right now! Maybe even try a white? Next follow this European Fashionista's lead and choose crazy cool tights. Next, layer on your choice of skirt. For the winter I’d try anything mid length to ankle length. Adventurous? Mullet skirts are having their moment right now. On top be sure to color block your favorite primary to tertiary color, just keep it saturated. Lastly, add your favorite vintage scarf to stay Euro chic.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Chelsea Cunningham

Everyone at some point has had somebody tell them that they cannot do something for what ever reason. Growing up with strawberry blond hair, I was adamantly told by my mother and anyone with common sense that I just can’t wear the color orange. Last spring, however, I decided to throw this rule out the window and bought coral lipstick, orange blush and as many tangerine things as I could lay my hands on.

It was unexpected to see someone wear orange who you would assume could not pull it off, and it actually looked pretty awesome! What color or thing have you always thought you couldn't pull off? Maybe now is the time to try it out as street style continues to evolve to crazier and crazier heights.

Name: Chelsea Cunningham

Major: Creative Photography

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What is your favorite piece is your wardrobe?

Chelsea Cunningham: My American Apparel disco pants.

CF: Do you prefer vintage or new?

CC: I always prefer vintage clothes.

CF: What is your favorite store to shop at?

CC: I love shopping at Value Village.

How To: Get this Fashionista’s relaxed rocker chic look by wearing some shiny leggings (these American Apparel ones are really the best), or some motorcycle boots with accent socks if you so desire. On top, pick up a floral or pastel light shirt or blouse to bring a little pop of color and stay right on trend for spring. Stay cozy and warm with a cardigan as well. I love this one, also from American Apparel.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Rebecca Cairns

One fashion accessory that I always approach with trepidation is hats. For some reason they just never look quite right on me, no matter what type it is. Bowler, wide-brimmed, fedora, cowboy or trucker, they are all the same. I feel my face is just not shaped for hats, but I will not accept defete just yet. I also love my hair so I feel like hats cover my favorite attribute. Maybe my biggest problem with hats however ,is the commitment involved. Hats screw up you hair, and turns mine into a frizy nightmare. This leaves you with the necessity of wearing said hat all day long. I like wearing hats outside, but inside my head feels constricted so this seems unappealing. I do notice though, that there is this recent movement into wearing wide-brimmed hats and fedora's everywhere. I spotted this fashionista, and I think she looks great with her hat and vintage ensemble.

Rebbeca Cairns

Program: Creative Photography

Year: Recent Alumni on campus

CollegeFashionista: What’s your current favorite song?


Rebecca Cairns: Sacrifice- Bjork.

CF: Who is your style icon?

RC: I don't think I could ever name just one. I'm inspired by people whom I pass on the street or the people I see in old photographs…

CF: What's something you couldn't live without?


RC: Any kind of patterned scarves or gigantic, bizarre earrings.

CF: What's on your wish list?


RB: A fox. But something more practical would probably be new boots, as mine are being held together by copious amounts of super glue (classy, I know).

How To: To get this Fashionista’s look, you need to hit up vintages stores and/or American Apparel. Obviously the vintage items you find will be different, but keep the vibe the same by looking for fur trimmed coats, lace-up boots, dark colors, and long pleated skirts to master this very modern “Little Women” look.