Author: Laura Iglehart

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Jordan Coggins

School’s out and the living’s easy. With a few days left to enjoy the District before the dreaded return to suburbia, I’ve found myself scrambling to piece together outfits suitable for metro jumping and city trekking. I’ll need comfortable shoes, shorts (preferably jorts), and a pullover for this unseasonably cool forecast. Now, all I need to do is unpack all these boxes…

I spotted this Fashionista kicking back in Kogan with a post-freshman year celebratory Frappucino, of course! Between packing up her room and seeing friends off for the summer, she rocked an embellished mesh T-shirt, cuffed jeans, T-strap sandals and a roomy cross-body bag.

Name: Jordan Coggins

Major: English

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What does your style say about you?
Jordan Coggins: As much as I'd like to say I have a cohesive style, my style typically reflects my current mood. Usually I like to dress more urban – I love my collared shirts and Oxfords. However, sometimes when I'm feeling a little more adventurous I'll throw on something with a little sparkle or a crazy pattern.

CF: What is your favorite season to dress for?
JC: I'd have to say my favorite season to dress for is fall. I'm a sweater girl so it's always exciting when I get to break out my cold weather clothes. However, I'm from the South so I always like dressing for fall more because it's chilly, but not too cold.

CF: What is your favorite college budget friendly stores to shop at?
JC: My absolute favorite store to shop at when I'm on a budget is Nordstrom Rack. I can always find high-end clothes at a discounted price and tons and tons of great shoes!

How To: This Fashionista shows us that sightseeing doesn’t have to be tacky. Aim for an outfit that will be comfortable enough for daytime strolling and stylish enough for evening dining.  Whether you’re hiking the steps of the Lincoln Memorial or window-shopping on U Street, remember that those wedges you thought were so perfect this morning will probably be debilitating this afternoon. I prefer to stick with flats, particularly worn-in sneaks. These sneakers combine old-school cool with practical comfort. Pair them with jorts or cuffed jeans, and top off with a simple T-shirt. Add a printed shawl – you’ll want one to throw on at museums or restaurants. Top off with a chic tote, large enough to hold your purchases, museum guides and a refillable bottle of water. With an ensemble like this, you’ll be stopping traffic in no time. Tourists beware!

<jcoggins@gwmail.gwu.edu>

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Yinka Bode-George

If I garnered one thing from the elementary fire and safety “presentations,” it was to stop, drop and roll. However, having lived through many fire drills, I am here to tell you to snag the following items pre-stop, drop and rolling: your (faux) fur vest, feminine blouse, fitted jeans and broken-in boots. In the unfortunate event that your closet does not survive, these four basic closet staples can take your from fire to super fly in no time at all!

I spotted this Fashionista looking simply sophisticated on a recent, blustery DC morning. Juxtaposing her cropped faux fur vest and combat boots with her wispy blouse and dark-wash jeans, she struck the perfect balance between punk and prep. Despite the doldrums of exam week, she looked ready to take on any subject with style.

Name: Yinka Bode-George

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: How does your style reflect your personality?

Yinka Bode-George: I would say that I’m a go-with-the-flow kind of person, and that is definitely reflected in my style. I pretty much dress how I feel. If I wake up in a rebellious mood, I’m throwing on my leather jacket. Or if it’s sunny outside, I’m wearing something bright and colorful.

CF: Who inspires your style?

YBG: I’m really inspired by Coco Chanel. She believed in the power of simplicity. Some of her most basic designs, like the little black dress, made the biggest statements. I try to incorporate her ideals into the way I dress.

CF: What are you most looking forward to wearing this summer?

YBG: I am a huge fan of the neon trend. I’m excited for neon nails, neon bodycon skirts and dresses and neon satchels. I think it’s a perfect trend for the summer.

How To: To perfect a look like this Fashionista's, start by inVESTing in a super fly fur vest. Whether you prefer real or faux, black or brown, a fur vest is a simple and easy way to enhance any outfit. Next, layer it over a feminine blouse. A cream colored blouse can take you from workplace chic to downtown hip in a hot second! Then, work a fitted pair of jeans (dark-wash is flattering and will always be in style.) To pull the look together add a pair of boots. Cowboy, equestrian or combat, boots are fool-proof way to update any look. Add your favorite satchel and a wristful of bangles, and you'll have a sophisticated, fire-proof look!
 

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Ayse Cetinkaya

Anna and Grace. McQueen and Kate. Me and leopard. Some things just go together. With this exam week slag, putting together innovative outfits just isn’t in the sleep-deprived cards.  In such cases, I rely on my favorite fashion duo — black and black. The pair exemplify a sense of refined elegance.

As she mourned the end of exams, she stood out in the masses of sweat pant-wearing, library-laden students. With her chiffon blouse, bedazzled hobo, calf-hair sandals and high-waisted mini skirt, she proves black can be anything but boring.

Name: Ayse Cetinkaya

Year: Freshman

Major: International Affairs and Women’s Studies

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your style?

Ayse Cetinkaya: I wear an ungodly amount of black, especially during the winter. I have a lot of flowy, loose pieces and I wear mostly neutrals with a couple of splashes of color with flashy jewelry and outrageous shoes. Because I’m usually all the same color, I think it’s fun to instead juxtapose materials: lots of jersey, velvet, lace, knits, and sheers constructed in creative ways. But at the same time, I have some crazy weird things that I love, like a pair of galaxy leggings and a stained glass effect skirt with the Angel Gabriel informing Mary of the Immaculate Conception (my “cathedral” skirt). I guess all in all I dress kind of dark and twisty with a fun edge to it.

CF: What are you most looking forward to wearing this summer?

AC: More colors! Flowy maxis, crop tops, cut-offs and white knits!

CF: If you could only keep one piece of clothing, what would it be and why?

AC: Such a hard decision! I’m tempted to say my cathedral skirt because I get such a kick out of wearing it, but my grandmother has a lot of nice furs and coats that I’ve always loved, so probably one of those.

CF: If you could raid anyone's closet, whose would it and why?

AC: Hands down Abbey Lee Kershaw, especially post peroxide. She’s basically everything I wish I could be style-wise. If not her, whoever runs Luxirare.

How To: Whoever said black on black was boring, was clearly not familiar with textures. For a look like this Fashionista’s, pick one basic piece to accessorize, embellish or layer with, like a sleek black maxi dress. Add sky wedges and bag, ideal for exhibit hopping (“Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations” anyone?!) and cafe stopping. Accessorize with a black bejeweled bracelet and belt, and you'll be a black beauty!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Joanne Cazeau

One Fashionista's trash can be another Fashionista's must-have. This is the underlying concept of thrifting, an art requiring patience and determination. Sorting through questionably smelling clothes and $5 bins can be taxing, but the thrill of uncovering your first piece of true vintage is incomparable. I'll never forget the sensation of finding my first vintage acquisition, a well-loved Fendi clutch scored from an Upper East Side thrift store. The buttery leather and grandmother-esque scent add a unique story to clutch. The price didn't hurt either!

I spotted this Fashionista thrifting out on the last day of the semester. Her sweater (à la Bill Cosby), high-waisted linen shorts, plaid cross-body and off-white oxfords made her a standout among a sea of stressed sweatpant-wearing students. As if her outfit couldn’t get better, her sweater, shorts and bag are all products of thrift store and garage sale pursuits. 

CollegeFashionista: What does style mean to you?
Joanne Cazeau: Fashion is perhaps one of the most ideal forms of personal expression there is — whether it relays mood, creativity, etc. My senior year of high school, I debuted a fashion campaign called Fashion Forward, which promoted a sense of modesty and expression, and discouraged social discrimination through fashion. I encourage everyone to be Fashion Forward!

CF: What is your favorite season to dress for and why?
JC: I really like dressing for fall and spring; these intermediate seasons offer a great opportunity for layering, and playing around with shorts, skirts, stockings, sweaters and boots. Also, if I layer appropriately, I can avoid the big bulky coats during the fall.

CF: Do you have any favorite sources for fashion inspiration?
JC: I love everything vintage, but lately, I’ve been clinging to my '90s roots. I am a '90s baby; I embrace my motto, “Born in the '90s and still living in the '90s.” I often find myself on YouTube for hours watching old videos of Nas, the Fugees, Lauryn Hill, Monica and Mary J. Blige. While the music is great, I also take note of the fashion; the style of dress that so accurately represented the mellow vibe of the decade is my ultimate inspiration. And so I don the high-waisted pants, Cosby sweaters, loose denim and buttoned-down collar shirts, rompers, menswear-inspired, canvas sneakers, intricate hairstyles, statement earrings and jewelry. To make the looks happen, I indulge in my obsessive thrifting habit and garage sale hopping.

While I do love the '90s, colorful prints, A-line dresses and skirts and jeans also do just the trick for me. I’ve also been experimenting around with the “urban prep” look — where urban style meets conservative prep. (Occasionally, I browse the blogs KisforKinky and Fashion Bomb Daily for a little inspiration.) As for my living fashion inspirations, Solange Knowles and Shingai Shoniwa of the Noisettes are definitely my style icons. Having been raised in Haiti, I have a great appreciation for the Caribbean use of loud prints and patterns and their bold natural hairstyles.

How To: One word — Goodwill. Whether you're looking for theme party pieces or men's flannel, Goodwill is the place to go. However, online thifting can often be just as fruitful. eBay is a great source for authentic vintage handbags and other accessories. As far as clothes go, many smaller vintage boutiques and thrift shops use 1stdibs to sell their apparel. To create a look similar to this Fashionista's start with an oversized sweater. Chances are your dad or boyfriend have a few lying around, but if not, there are a plentitude to be found in stores or online. Pair with a skirt, for the perfect preppy look. As far as shoes and glasses go, opt for new or gently worn shoes. Add some loafers or oxfords and top off a pair of cat-eye sunglasses. Piecing together the perfect thrifted look can take no time at all!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Calle Knight

“It’s an investment piece.” This is often the line I present to my parents in reference to pricier pieces. (Handbags and anything leopard frequently fall into this category…) While strategically slipping this phrase into my argument typically works for my mother (a financial adviser who understands both fashion and financial investments), it often just evokes an eye roll from Daddy-o.

This Fashionista clearly understands the concept of investing in style. Her draped black blazer, pastel blouse, fitted dark-wash jeans, and brown suede boots are a testament to her understanding of investing wisely. While all of these pieces create a great outfit, they can each be worn time and time again with trendier items.

Name: Calle Knight

Major: International Affairs

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: How does your closet reflect your personality?

Calle Knight: I am the type of person who pays attention to minute details. When I meet a people, I don't just look at their eye color or their hair style. Rather, I notice the stitching on their jeans or how the fit of their pant leg is designed to elongate and slim. My analytic personality is reflected in my closet, and what I look to add to it, in my obsession with details. When looking at my wardrobe, some people might see unstructured blazers and skinny jeans, but I see the blazer's intentional asymmetrical lapels and the rips in my dark wash jeans, which were crafted using a combination of my mother's cheese grater and a nail file. I notice everything, so I make sure I pick out pieces full of little details that reflect that.

CF: What are your top three closet staples?

CK: 1. Slub cotton: In addition to being ridiculous comfortable, slub cotton shirts come in tons of different styles and colors. They also offer a more interesting texture that plain T-shirts.
2. White scarves: In the winter, I wear tons of black, brown, and grey layers. A white scarf, though definitely a spill magnet, is an easy way to break up my winter uniform.
3. Knee-high boots: Without a doubt, boots are my favorite type of shoe. Knee-high boots in a neutral color are versatile, and can pull a fall, winter, or spring outfit together.

CF: If you could raid anyone's closet, whose would it be and why?

CK: Rachel Bilson's! She tends to mix great, versatile neutrals with bold statement pieces, exciting patterns and textures, and uncommon accent colors. It also doesn't hurt that she's short like me, so I wouldn't have to worry about spending money on a tailor!

How To: Smart investments don't have to break the bank. Smart investments can often be inexpensive vintage finds or sale items. Just like this Fashionista, you should always have a go-to black (or navy) blazer, feminine blouse, fitted jeans, and black (or brown) boots. These four classic pieces can transition from outfit to outfit, season to season, and year to year. It is possible to be a smart and savvy shopper! And whenever in doubt, ask yourself, “is this an investment piece?”

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Anna Ludwig

Although lacking Ladurée and Bon Marché (just to name a few of my favorite stops), Washington is the closest stateside alternative to Paris. Designed by l’architecte français, Pierre L’Enfant, the city possesses comparable Parisian trademarks: the Georgetown waterfront complete with canal-side cafes, the Louvre-esque triangles at the National Gallery and abundance of tourists. To that end, Parisian style is often mimicked by Washingtonians, as well. Whether they are museum hopping or bar crawling, Washingtonians, off the Hill, have that certain je ne sais quoi about their style.

I spotted this Fashionista strolling back to campus after a class excursion to the Corcoran. Her marinière shorts, bow-adorned sweater, cream scarf, simple flats and red shades are simply très chic.

Name: Anna Ludwig

Major: Public Health

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What is your favorite color to incorporate into your wardrobe?

Anna Ludwig: My favorite color to incorporate into my wardrobe is purple. Although I wear a lot of neutral colors, I always like to bring in a purple in my nail polish or in an accessory, like my sunglasses.

CF: Where do you get your fashion inspiration from?

AL: I get my fashion inspiration from fashion magazines and European influences. I also love finding fashion blogs that showcase clothes and outfits I would have never thought to put together.

CF: What is a fashion item you recently splurged on?

AL: I recently splurged on these striped shorts. I don't usually wear stripes, especially striped shorts, but i just couldn't resist these. They are a great addition for the nice hot weather we are experiencing.

How To: We may not be able to replicate French women’s beauty secrets, but we can recreate their impeccable style. Stripes are an easy and classic way to French-ify any outfit. However, remember to choose vertical stripes for elongating, as horizontal stripes can easily widen your figure. For more casual occasions, try a pullover thrown over chinos or jeans. For more formal functions, be bold and go with striped pants paired with a silky top and a blazer. If walking or biking, like the Parisians do, throw on some comfy flats or opt for some strappy heels when taking a cab or metro. Now, you have an outfit perfect for channeling your inner Parisian and fighting off les beaux garçons! Oh là là!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Shamier Settle

It’s really no wonder that Warner dumped Elle Woods. Let’s be real. Who could ever forget that hot pink leather skirt and matching jacket that she wore?! However successful Elle turned out to be, she gave pink a bad rap. Until now. In my post-cherry blossom season depression, I have been piecing together outfits based solely around Elle Woods’ favorite color. From my blush-colored chinos to a vintage salmon sweater, pink has made a strong resurgence in my wardrobe.

It was hard to miss this Fashionista’s punchy pink frock on a recent gloomy spring day. The flared skirt, three quarter length sleeves, cinched waist and exposed zipper make it perfect for day or night.

Name: Shamier Settle

Major: International Affairs

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your style?

Shamier Settle: I would describe my style as preppy and relaxed. I went to a boarding school where there was a strict dress code, with little leeway for fashion. Consequently, I adopted a more preppy style. Since I am now free of that dress code, I have started to pair preppier things with more relaxed items, like jeans and oversized sweaters.

CF: How are you transitioning your closet from cooler weather to warmer weather?

SS: Less pants…more skirts!

CF: If you could only keep one piece of clothing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

SS: I would keep my boyfriend's sweatshirt from the school we both went to. I sleep in it all the time and it has so much sentimental meaning to me.

How To: Whether it’s pink or blue, think bright, think bold. Try a simple sheath dress, loose or belted. When it comes to accessories, less is more. For a casual daytime look, add a few bangles instead of a belt. For a date night look, cinch your waist with a belt and add a clutch. Watch out, Warner: pink is back!

 

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Dani Washington

If your Facebook newsfeed didn’t already alert you, I am here to tell you that the Carolina Cup is not a horserace. The Carolina Cup is a darty (day party), where there happen to be some horses. It is attended by college students from every Southern school, and if you don’t wear Lilly Pulitzer, you don’t go.This uber-preppy social function took place this past weekend, and after careful Facebook “investigation,” I seem to have come down with a case of pink and green colorblindness. This probably explains why I spotted this Fashionista. Her neutral outfit lends itself to accessories, especially the pink and green kind.

Name: Dani Washington

Major: Advertising

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What does style mean to you?

Dani Washington: Style is something very personal to me. It's about how you feel about yourself on a particular day and how you want to be perceived in that moment.

CF: What are your three favorite spring trends?

DW: I am loving the futuristic prints! And if done correctly, peplum dresses and skirts are amazing and flattering for anyone. The tangerine hues that were seen at Fashion Week are also beautiful on anyone.

CF: Do you have a style icon?

DW: I can't choose just one. So here's two: Bianca Jagger and Victoria Beckham.

How To: While Lilly Pulitzer is fitting for the Carolina Cup, it really can’t be worn on a day-to-day basis. The subtlety of this Fashionista’s pink and green color palette is perfect for everyday and can easily be replicated. Start with simple basics like a maxi skirt, T-shirt and sandals. Now, the fun part: accessorizing! Add a funky green scarf and blush colored bag — an outfit perfect for any darty!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Audrey Sze

Spring break reminiscing or summer wishing, GW students gave shorts a short resurgence last week during the Washington heat wave. From the ever-classic “jort” to the preppy pastel colored, shorts were in full bloom around campus. In honor of March Madness, Tarheel blue shorts even made a quick debut in honor of Chapel Hill’s then victory.

I spotted this Fashionista studying (but actually tanning) in Kogan Plaza on a particularly summery spring afternoon. Clad in jorts, a silky blouse, wedges, sunglasses and working an Arm Party, she worked an outfit perfect for dashing in between classes on a freakishly warm afternoon.

Name: Audrey Sze

Major: International Affairs

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What/who inspires your style?

Audrey Sze: I was named after Audrey Hepburn and have subsequently been fascinated with her style. Her classic looks inspire me to keep my outfits simple and basic. I also tend to stick with neutral colors that complement my skin tone. Instead of keeping up with trends, I am constantly adopting classic pieces, which can be recycled from season to season.

CF: What are you top three college budget friendly stores to shop at?

AS: 1. Zara — I never have any trouble finding classic pieces from Zara, and I don’t have to worry about breaking the bank! 2. Urban Outfitters — Although I tend to stick with more conservative basics, I love adding a colorful cardigan or bracelet here and there. 3. Gap — the go-to store for inexpensive, quality basics.

How To: To craft an look similar to this Fashionista's, opt for a great pair of shorts. Whether you prefer bermudas or cut-offs, shorts are a never-fail closet staple for warmer weather. Next, pair with an easy-breezy blouse or tank. Add wedges or espadrilles and a pair of shades. Accessorize it up with funky friendship bracelets and bangles, and ta da! An ensemble ideal for transitioning between busy spring and lazy summer days.

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Clement Sin

My JanSport lilac rolling backpack was easily the highlight of third grade. I'd like to think that I single-handedly inspired the trend many of my classmates later acquired. Twelve years later, I cringe at the sight of backpacks, rolling and strappy. Practical? Yes. Stylin'? Not so much. I think I'd rather dislocate a shoulder lugging around my overstuffed tote bags.

After spotting this Fashionisto's personalized backpack, I might have to reconsider. He himself collected and added patches to his colorful sack, making it one-of-a-kind and distinguishable from the sea of Northfaces and Patagonias. By pairing his unique accessory with jeans, a T-shirt and an equally colorful pair of Converse, this Fashionisto keeps it practical and stylish. (Yes, it can be done.)

Name: Clement Sin

Major: Finance

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What does style mean to you?

Clement Sin: I would say that style to me is like what a license plate is to a car. It is a major part of each person's identification, and it contributes immensely to your personality and how others see you. How I dress represents the way I wish to communicate with my surroundings and others.

CF: What is your favorite article of clothing?

CS: My favorite article of clothing are my Diesel “I'm Pression” limited edition high tops.

CF: How does living in a metropolitan city influence your style?

CS: Having lived in D.C., Hong Kong and Boston has hugely influenced my style. The trend in Hong Kong is a cross-over between European metrosexual and Japanese futuristic styles. In the US, I have identified myself with more of an urban look. With that said, I'd say that my style is a melting pot of a little bit of fashion from many cultures.

How To: To craft a look similar to this Fashionisto's, treat the backpack as the focus of the outfit. If you don't want to patchwork your own, look for a bright backpack that reflects your style. Invest in a trusty JanSport or rucksack. (For Fashionistas, Marc by Marc Jacobs also makes fabulously colorful packs.) In order to accentuate the backpack, pair it with simple, comfortable closet staples, like jeans and a T-shirt. Rucksack, school bag, knapsack, book bag — whatever you call it, the backpack is the perfect accessory for any Fashionisto/a. Who knows, I may even be spotted with one!