Author: Monika Haebich

CLASS OF 2015: Monika

Going into college, all I knew was that I wanted to explore. My major was a mystery, I had no idea what clubs I would be joining and I was definitely unsure of what I would be doing after my four years. I had no idea that during my time at the University of Pennsylvania I would join a sorority and meet my best friends. I never would have guessed I would end up on a sports team—yet alone Penn’s polo team, and I certainly had never imagined that the internship I applied for freshman year would end up becoming an essential part of my entire college experience.

My time at CollegeFashionista was beyond invaluable. Yes, the industry experience was fantastic. More importantly, however, were the people I met and the friendships I formed. Interning for CollegeFashionista was like being part of a family: we looked out for each other, and we always had a good time. College allowed me to explore and expand, but seeing the company and people I love grow was perhaps even more rewarding. I am beyond proud and grateful to have been a part of the CollegeFashionsta family, and I am even happier to see all that the future holds for this amazing team.

My experiences at the University of Pennsylvania taught me more than I had ever imagined I would learn. I was encouraged, pushed and challenged both inside and outside of the classroom, but my college experience would have been incomplete without CollegeFashionsita. Confident and ready for any challenge, I will embark on yet another adventure after college—this time at an incredible start-up in Atlanta, Georgia. Although far from home and from the CollegeFashionista headquarters, I know I’ll find some #StyleGuruLove wherever my journey takes me.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Timeless Tattoos

As much as fashion is an expression and performance of identity, fashion changes. Styles come in and out of fashion, but sometimes there are things that do not. This Fashionisto was spotted showing off the most permanent of statements: his tattoos.

Dressed in black and burgundy, this Fashionisto looked perfectly edgy for the spring. He sported a pair of fitted, vintage black Levi Brand Jeans. The untrimmed hem right above his knee fell in the perfect place, and the running threads left his outfit looking raw and edgy.

On top, he wore a burgundy knit sweater over a T-shirt of the same color. The light sweater was great for adding a light layer in the spring, and the knit material allowed the breeze to blow through.

Finally, this Fashionisto wore a pair of cherry red Dr. Martens. The smooth, leathery boots were the perfect shade to match his burgundy sweater, and their dark red color was a great moody choice for an edgy springtime look.

Any part of a Fashionisto or Fashionista’s outfit that shows off his or her individuality is usually my favorite, so it is no surprise that (although not part of his outfit) I loved this Fashionisto’s tattoos. The beautifully intricate black and white tattoos on the back of his calves were surrounded with bright and colorful red and green roses, and the incredible and personal artwork certainly completed this Fashionisto’s look.

What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Never be afraid to be yourself, and show off your individuality through your style.”

WHAT TO WEAR: Graduation

It really does feel like just yesterday we were freshmen. Eager to meet my college roommate, anxious for the first day of class (hello writing seminar) and excited to join a pledge class, I could not have been happier to be a freshman at Penn four years ago. Today, with discovery still around every corner, even as a senior, I find it nearly impossible that in just over two weeks the class of 2015 will be walking across the graduation stage and into the “real world.”

Certainly equipped with the talent and passion to take on whatever challenges life throws at her next year, this Fashionista looked stunning in red and ready for the graduation ceremony. She wore a gorgeous red and navy patterned dress by Parker. With an asymmetrical front closure, the dress created a balanced silhouette that accentuated this Fashionista’s slender legs. The red in the dress acted as a great contrast to Penn’s black graduation gowns and ensures that this Fashionista stand out in the crowd. The bright color and loose, breathable fabric was likewise perfect for a daytime graduation look—especially as the dress was light enough to be worn underneath a thick gown. While formal, fun and definitely impactful, this Fashionista’s dress was still appropriate for the conservative ceremony.

Finally, this Fashionista wore a pair of comfortable, black leather heels. The padded leather insole and height of the heel made them the perfect option for confidently walking across the stage.

One Simple Change: For a look that would be perfect for formal, simply add your favorite pieces of jewelry. A pair of dramatic and glitzy earrings will add a bit of nighttime glamour to your look and have you ready to dance the night away.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Showing (Snake)skin

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. With this Fashionista’s incredibly detailed outfit, this was definitely the case. Wearing killer heels, a gorgeous silk top and a classic leather jacket, this Fashionista looked polished and ready for both class and dinner.

This Fashionista started off her outfit with a pair of comfortable straight leg jeans. The “stormy wash” made the denim perfect for any season, and the dark blue hue made them slightly more formal than typical light wash denim. Paired with her jeans was an absolutely beautiful asymmetrical draped top from BCBG. The cream silk looked effortlessly elegant against this Fashionista’s skin, and the sheer layers added a romantic and girlish hint of playfulness. On top, this Fashionista layered on an olive green leather jacket. The warm tones in her silk top enhanced the unusual and amazing color of her jacket, and the leather added a bit of edge to complement her flirty top.

This Fashionista finished off her look with the most incredible accessories. She wore a beautiful white, pink and gold beaded statement necklace that she purchased at a boutique in D.C. The sparkly pearls and jewels on the bib necklace looked great against her top, and muted colors made the look subtle and refined. Her shoes were likewise the perfect accessory. Wearing a pair of Kenneth Cole Reaction snakeskin and leather heeled booties, similar to this pair from Maison Margiela, this Fashionista was certainly dressed to kill.

What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “It’s fun to change up your style, but always wear something that shows a little bit of your personality!”

WHAT TO WEAR: Weekend Wear

Bring out the bright and bold colors, Fashionistas/os, because spring has finally sprung! Students are starting to shy away from their usual go-to favorite colors (black, black and black) in favor of brighter hues, and this Fashionisto was certainly ready for the warmer weather and spring sun.

When I spotted this Fashionisto, I immediately knew I had to stop and photograph him. Sporting the preppiest of attire, this Fashionista embraced a classic and put-together look that was perfect for the weekend. Wearing a Vineyard Vines quarter-zip in Antiqua green, he looked perfect for spring. The bright color of the pullover contrasted nicely with the navy and white lining around his collar, and the light layer was ideal for keeping warm in the spring.

Of course, nothing screams “I’m ready for the weekend” like a pair of martini-glass shorts. Matching his pullover to the subtle green stitching in the olives on the embroidered shorts, this Fashionisto perfectly matched the two items. The two colors were a bold move; however, they worked perfectly together because of the stitching and because of the slightly subdued tones of both colors.

Finally, this Fashionisto wore a pair of brown Sperry Top-Sider boat shoes. The leather shoes, an always-popular choice of footwear on campus, looked great with the preppy outfit and ensured that this Fashionisto would be ready for any weekend festivities.

One Simple Change: While a full martini glass is ideal for the weekend, try swapping out the embroidered shorts for a solid pair when headed to class. A pair of lightweight “dusty berry” chinos are perfect for the spring.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Nobody’s Business

Here at Penn, students typically pride themselves on their “work hard, play hard” attitude. It’s not uncommon to find students dancing the night away on any given night of the week, but school is also a top priority for most. This Fashionista was spotted looking like she was ready to both work and play. Wearing a blazer on top and a pair of black jeans on the bottom, this Fashionista practically embodied the typical Penn attitude.

The top half of this Fashionista’s outfit remained professional, tailored and fit. Wearing a slim fit, light blue button-down, this Fashionista looked put-together and refined. The light blue was a great alternative to the classic, white button-down, and the color rendered the shirt more casual with the jeans. Over the shirt, she layered a black fitted blazer to complete her classic and tailored look. Both wardrobe staples, the black blazer and blue blouse, were perfect for a wide variety of occasions, and it was great to see how this Fashionista took her work-wear out to play.

On the bottom, this Fashionista wore a pair of rag & bone skinny jeans in coal wash. The edgy, super skinny jeans were likewise another classic staple—the fit renders them appropriate for numerous occasions, and the dark wash allows them to be paired with just about anything.

Finally, this Fashionista wore a pair of edgy, black motorcycle boots to complete her ultra-cool look. The black in the boots echoed the black in her blazer, and this Fashionista looked perfectly ready for anything Penn could throw at her.

What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Don’t forget that style rules are meant to be broken.”

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: The Only Boyfriend I’ll Ever Need

I’m an absolute sucker for a good pair of boyfriend jeans, and with spring rolling around, it has been absolutely wonderful to see all of Penn’s Fashionistas break out their favorite pairs of boyfriend jeans in the warmer weather. Something about a good pair of boyfriend jeans screams “casual” and “cool,” and I’m a firm believer that there is no such thing as going wrong in a pair of ripped boyfriend jeans as chic as the ones from this Fashionista.

I spotted this Fashionista outside of Van Pelt looking beyond cool in her relaxed and modern look. Sporting a pair of NSF Beck jeans made exclusively for Madewell, this Fashionista looked effortlessly stylish. The “bedvon blue” wash was the perfect light wash for the warmer weather, and its classic and distressed look made these jeans perfect for pairing with just about anything.

On top, this Fashionista wore an Otis and Maclain distressed T-shirt, similar to this semi-sheer linen jersey striped T-shirt by Alexander Wang. The subtle imperfections in the T-shirt’s hemming mirrored the distressed nature of this Fashionista’s jeans, and the uneven texture of the shirt added a great contrast to her outfit. The thinness of the black and white stripes also made the shirt perfect for a summery look, and the cropped cut added a touch of femininity to the boyfriend jeans.

Finally, this Fashionista finished off her cool and casual look with a pair of beautiful Golden Goose high-top sneakers. The blue, green and beige sneakers again had this Fashionista’s signature broken-in look as the rubber souls came slightly dirtied.

For a look as casual and effortless as this Fashionista’s, don’t be afraid to invest in pieces with purposeful imperfections. Sometimes they’re all you need for a perfect look.

What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Don’t be afraid to dress up for class.”

WHAT TO WEAR: Vacation

With Spring Break behind us, it is time for that final stretch of school! With that final stretch of school, however, always comes the need for more vacation. Pack your weekend bags for a quick trip to Miami or venture somewhere farther. Either way, we’ll have your vacation wardrobe essentials covered.

This University of Pennsylvania Fashionista was spotted on her way out of her Miami hotel heading to dinner with friends. Her carefree and casual look was perfect for any day in Miami, and she stood out from the crowds with her gorgeous printed shorts.

On top, this Fashionista wore a white, button-down tank top. The tank top was the perfect basic to bring on any vacation; its cute buttons rendered it a bit different from your usual basic white top, but the tank top was still versatile enough to wear with multiple outfits while on vacation. On the bottom, this Fashionista wore a pair of maroon, printed shorts. The thin fabric of the shorts were perfect for any hot, summery day, and the lightweight material made them easy to transport to vacation.

This Fashionista accessorized with all the right accessories. A handful of gold rings from various Etsy boutiques looked great against her tanned skin, and she stored the rest of her vacation essentials in her classic, black Rebecca Minkoff purse.

How To: When packing for vacation, make your you travel lightly, and make sure to bring pieces that can be worn with a variety of different clothes. Packing basics, like this white top, can be worn with multiple articles of clothing on your vacation, so you are never left without something to match. With an outfit as stellar as this Fashionista’s, your vacation will surely rock!

ALL IN THE DETAILS: Lips Are Movin’

While I usually always stick to my classic rock, this week I have been on a bit of a break from my routine favorites. Meghan Trainor’s “Lips Are Movin” has been stuck in my head for days, and once I thought I finally got the song out of my head, I remembered this Fashionista and her amazing shirt. Showing off her bold and fun style, this Fashionista wore a statement sweatshirt with the perfect set of accessories.

This Fashionista wore the perfect outfit for class, showing off her quirky and amazing style while definitely paying attention to all the details of her outfit. Wearing a comfortable pair of high-waisted jeans, she rolled the cuffs to show off the detail in her colorful, striped socks. The light denim was the perfect wash to pair with her white and red sweatshirt.

The lips on her cropped sweatshirt were a fun and bold graphic. The embroidered details on the sweatshirt were a fun detail, unlike what you usually see on your typical graphic, printed sweatshirt, and this detail also added great textures to her shirt.

On the bottom, this Fashionista wore a pair of Dr. Martens 1460 boots. The classic, punk staple shoes were perfect with her outfit, and they added a hint of edge to her playful look. Finally, she accessorized with layers of necklaces and bracelets to complete her look.

How To: Get those lips movin’ with a playful sweatshirt like the one this Fashionista wore, and be sure to accessorize a pair of statement socks.

ALL IN THE DETAILS: Wanderlust

While it is always fun to experiment with the latest trends, there is also something special about wearing things that mean something to you. My favorite pieces of jewelry have all come (or been made) from the people closest to me, and some of my most worn clothing has been handed down or gifted from friends and family. Even our travels often provide us with a ton of fashion inspiration: my favorite childhood dress will always be the one I designed in Thailand, and my warmest alpaca wool sweater was purchased right in Peru. Wearing things with meaning remind us of the things we hold closest to us—whether they be family, adventure or friends, and this Fashionista knew just how to show that off in the details of her outfit.

I found this Fashionista outside the library, standing out immediately for her casual, comfy and chic look. Wearing a simple pair of black leggings with a plain, black T-shirt, she looked relaxed and ready for class. Rather than throwing on a sweatshirt like many students do, she opted for layering on a loose, chambray shirt. The oversized shirt was made of soft cotton to maximize comfort, and the shirt paired perfectly with black leggings or even slim-fitted jeans.

To accessorize, this Fashionista wore a beautiful silk head wrap. The bright colors added a touch of youthfulness to her look while conveniently keeping her hair pulled back. Finally, in my favorite part of this Fashionista’s outfit, she layered on three gold necklaces, all holding special meaning to her. A beautiful hamsa necklace dangled in the middle, and a long pendant reading “LIFE IS A JOURNEY NOT A DESTINATION” hung below.

How To: This week, try mixing in pieces that hold meaning to you. Whether they’re from your latest travels, your best friend or your sister’s hand-me-downs, strike a balance between things you purchased and things that remind you of what you value in life.