Author: NicoleEacuello

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Dakota Whitworth

This week's Fashionista proves that sometimes less is more. I spotted Dakota while shopping in Newport, RI and instantly fell in love with her preppy ensemble. She looked adorable in her simple striped sundress and J.Crew flip flops. While she kept her accessories minimal, her metallic Tory Burch clutch added a subtle edge to her outfit. What stood out most about Dakota, along with her impeccable style, was her confidence. She was truly comfortable in what she was wearing and that was reflected in her bright smile.

Name: Dakota Whitworth

Major: Public Relations

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Dakota Whitworth: Feminine and classic, but also preppy and fun.

CF: What is your style inspired by?

DW: I absolutely love old Hollywood, and will always wish it was acceptable to dress like Audrey Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe for every occasion. Since that isn't always the case, I am usually inspired by both what my favorite designers are showing this season and what my best friends are wearing.

CF: What is your definition of a Fashionista/o?

DW: Someone who has great unique style that reflects who they are as a person.

CF: If you could have any celebrity's wardrobe whose would you choose and why?

DW: Blake Lively. Honestly I just want the whole costume wardrobe of Gossip Girl, but that aside she has the ability to keep that girly all-American charm in her style, while also always looking glamorous and sexy. It's the perfect balance, I am always envious of her outfits.

CF: What is your go-to outfit for a day at the beach?

DW: A cute bandeau bikini with an easy sundress over it, and of course a colorful beach bag.

CF: What is one trend you would like to see become popular this summer?

DW: I am obsessed with the girly florals out this season and anything backless.

CF: Do you have any advice for the aspiring Fashionista/os out there?

DW: Always have fun with beauty and dress in a way that makes you feel confident. Happy girls are the prettiest girls.

How To: To recreate Dakota's darling ensemble, let your sundress do all the talking. This season is perfect for incorporating bright colors and bold prints into one's wardrobe. Lilly Pulitzer is every preppy girl's secret to achieving a fun and flirty look for summer. One of my personal favorite sundresses by Lilly is the Tylar Dress. I love how the print takes the typical nautical stripe and makes it unique.

PASSIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Eddie Omar

Meet Eddie Omar, the young and handsome CEO of Power Hour. Power Hour is a natural energy and memory enhancing jelly shot used by students across New England to improve their workouts and study habits. It comes in four flavors: apricot, tropical punch, grape and apple. What stands out about Eddie aside from his ambition, is that while he is extremely successful for a 24-year-old he is also very down to earth. When he is not wearing a suit to an important business meeting, his look is still put together yet appears almost effortless. He makes a simple black V-neck trendy by accessorizing with his confidence, charisma and favorite watch.

Name: Eddie Omar

Passion: Entrepreneurship

Year: Third year Ph.D student

CollegeFashionista: What exactly is Power Hour?

Eddie Omar: Power Hour is a natural energy and memory enhancing jelly shot. The purpose is to have students refrain from using sugar abundant energy products and pick a healthier alternative. There are also products with artificial sweeteners in them that have negative side effects as well. Power Hour has neither.

CF: I love how Power Hour appeals to college students, but is it only for students?

EO: No, it is more commonly sold at fitness stores and gyms. Athletes use it as a pre-workout because in comparison to most products it does not give them a jittery feeling like most caffeine abundant supplements. I personally use it more to work out than to study with.

CF: You've impressed me again. How would you dress to impress others at an important business meeting?

EO: Navy blue pinstripe suit with a pink collared shirt. I'm not a fan of wearing ties though. I feel they make it seem I'm trying too hard. I let my charisma complete the outfit.

CF: What is your go-to outfit for a relaxing day?

EO: Shorts and a tank top are what you will catch me in when I'm relaxing at home.

CF: What is your favorite accessory?

EO: I have a terrible weakness for watches. My favorite is my Tag Heuer link with a diamond bezel.

CF: Power Hour is an amazing brand. What brands in the fashion industry do you admire from a marketing standpoint?

EO: Good question. Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Armani to name a few. Quality is important to me and with brands such as those you pay a premium for quality.

CF: Where can our readers find Power Hour in stores?

EO: We are currently in several fitness stores and gyms in the New England region but keep an eye out for us because we expect to be nationally distributed within the next couple of months. We will also be selling Power Hour on our website soon.

Learn more: To learn more about Power Hour and find it in a store near you check out www.powerhourshot.com and “like” it on Facebook here.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Taylor Eacuello

I have never been interested in or inspired by the style of Fashionista/os who blindly follow trends. I believe that genuine Fashionista/os incorporate current trends into their own style while still remaining true to the quirky pieces in their wardrobe. This week's Fashionista has the same philosophy as I do. She is an eclectic Fashionista whose ensembles display numerous diverse trends. While her style has been described as “wacky,” she is confident in herself and wears whatever she wants, paying no attention to what is conventional. What stands out the most about this Fashionista is that no matter what she is wearing, her look is always 100% reflective of her personality. She dresses to impress only herself, making her an icon to the Fashionistas around her.

Name: Taylor Eacuello

Major: Art

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Taylor Eacuello: My style is very all over the place. I can never stick to one specific label for my style. I'm the kind of girl who wears Doc Martens as well as Sperry Top-Siders.

CF: What is your style inspired by?

TE: My style is inspired by my life. It's kind of hectic but put together.

CF: What is your definition of a Fashionista/o?

TE: Someone who has awesome style without consciously making decisions. A true Fashionista/o doesn't care what is cool and what is not, she or he will just know what is cool effortlessly.

CF: If you could have any celebrity's wardrobe whose would you choose and why?

TE: Zooey Deschanel because she's so adorable and girly. I wish I could pull off her look.

CF: What is your go-to outfit for a day at the beach?

TE: A pair of high-waist denim shorts with a cropped tank top and of course a bandeau bikini to have minimal tan lines.

CF: What is one trend you would like to see become popular this summer?

TE: Wooden jewelry. I'm starting to get a little sick of seeing feathered jewelry.

CF: Do you have any advice for the aspiring Fashionista/os out there?

TE: Never limit creativity or boldness. That is what makes a true Fashionista/o.

How To: To recreate this Fashionista's simple, chic look, check out one of this season's hottest trends; sheer blouses. While this Fashionista opts for a neutral cream blouse, adding a subtle pop of color is just as trendy. If neutral colors aren't really you thing, another great option is this unique chiffon blouse available at Topshop. I love how the gold buttons stand out of the delicate black fabric. Accessorize with a light infinity scarf. The newest item on my wish list is this Kimchi Blue eternity scarf available at Urban Outfitters. I am obsessed with the pretty print and bold colors.

PASSIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Alex Larochelle

This week's Passionista is Alex Larochelle, a communications student whose love for the media is reflective in her career choice. Alex is a lottery host for WPRI channel 12 and reads the winning lottery numbers on television twice a week. Alex's outfit selections are trendy yet professional. Her ensembles are perfect for young Fashionistas to emulate because although they are appropriate to wear in an office, they are also fun. Aside from her flawless sense of style, Alex stands out to viewers because of her natural ability to shine in front of an audience. She speaks eloquently and with confidence.

Name: Alex Larochelle

Passion: Media and Communications

Year: Senior

CollegeFashionista: How did you become interested in the media and communications?

Alex Larochelle: When I was diagnosed with Melanoma I was a nursing major. Being diagnosed with something so life-threatening made me realize that I had to go after my dreams. I've always wanted to be on television, and everyone wants to be a star. Dr. Oz saved my life so I hope to give that back to someone one day.

CF: Dr. Oz saved your life? How so?

AL: He did a segment on the increase of Melanoma in teenagers and said to always check under the nails because Melanoma can grow there. I always had a stripe under my nail and no one knew what it was from. It turned out to be Melanoma and had I not seen his segment I never would have known.

CF: That's an incredible story. Aside from medical shows what other kinds of programs would you be interested in?

AL: I would love to host my own political commentary show on CNN. I am minoring in political science right now so it is an interest of mine. I also would love to host The Today Show.

CF: I love The Today Show. I especially love the hosts outfits because their looks are reflective of their personalities. How does your passion impact your style?

AL: One day I hope to be seen on national television. I tend to dress more conservatively when on air yet still trendy. I am inspired by Hoda Kotb because she wears a lot of fun colors and different necklines. She has a very classic look.

CF: A lot of Fashionistas spend their summer interning or working. What is your go-to outfit for a job interview?

AL: For my interview I wore black tailored dress pants with a skinny leg, a neutral colored blouse and a bright blazer. The blazer showed that I was ready to be on air and it also showed my own style. Everyone else was wearing black blazers and black pants so the pop of color allowed me to stand out. I also wore heels.

CF: Blazers are especially trendy this season. I know they are a staple piece in your wardrobe. What unique color blazers do you own?

AL: I own taupe, royal blue and coral blazers. A woman actually offered to buy my taupe blazer from me when I was wearing it. She had never seen a blazer that color and was obsessed with it.

CF: What is another trend you would love to see become popular this summer?

AL: Clutches. I always try to find a nice clutch and sometimes it's impossible. Whenever I'm on Pinterest I always find myself repinning cute clutches.

CF: Do you have a clutch that is currently your favorite?

AL: Yes. My tan Marc Jacobs clutch. It goes with almost everything.

CF: You're a senior this year, what are your plans after graduation?

AL: Starting off as a news reported for a local television station and hopefully expanding to national television.

CF: Where do you see yourself in ten years?

AL: Sitting on the Today Show couch interviewing you about the latest trends and your fashion picks.

Learn more: To see Alex in action tune in to WPRI channel 12 at 6:59PM to watch her read the winning lottery numbers and check out her fabulous outfits.

Style Guru Bio: Nicole Eacuello

It’s my third semester as a Style Guru for the University of Rhode Island. I am currently pursuing undergraduate degrees in Public Relations and Psychology. I hope to one day provide PR and advertisement for a major fashion house such as Chanel or Yves Saint Laurent. 

Aside from my education, I am currently a brand representative for Karmaloop, and have also worked as a sales associate and brand representative for American Apparel.

Along with a background in retail, I also paint and take pictures. As an artist, I find that I am most inspired by the fashion advertisements in magazines.

To me, a trendsetter is a Fashionista/o who isn't afraid to be bold and dress differently than everyone else. No matter what he or she is wearing, that person will always look and feel comfortable in their outfit.

My advice to any aspiring Fashionista/o is that while it is important to incorporate trends into one's wardrobe, it is more important to do so in a way that allows his or her own style to shine through. Always believe the message your outfit is conveying, because fashion speaks louder than words.

This season I am obsessed with mixing floral prints and studded pieces, Jeffrey Campbell heels and my favorite pair of sunglasses, Ray-Ban wayfarers.

While that is just a start, I look forward to sharing my sense of style and inspirations with you throughout the rest of summer! Tune in every Wednesday to check out the University of Rhode Island's latest PASSIONISTA/FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Lauren Anderson

This Fashionista's cool ensemble caught my attention because of the way her bold H&M satchel stood out against her dark colored pieces. Her American Apparel oversized chiffon shirt is a must-have item for Fashionistas this season. It can be worn in many ways and comes in an assortment of fun colors. I love how she incorporated American Apparel's classic circle scarf into her outfit on this particularly brisk spring day. Her floral shorts are also a trendy item. Lauren takes the popular floral print trend and makes it her own by wearing a dark pattern rather than the typical bright and bold floral print. Lauren and I stopped to talk briefly about her favorite spring trend, her style icon and her advice to aspiring Fashionistas.

Name: Lauren Anderson

Major: Art

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What is one of your favorite trends this spring?

Lauren Anderson: Dark floral print. I love taking the flirty girly print and edging it up.

CF: What or who is your biggest style inspiration?

LA: Lauren Conrad is my style icon. I am obsessed with her clothing and how she always does her own thing in the industry.

CF: What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring Fashionistas?

LA: Always find a way to make popular trends your own.

How To: To recreate Lauren's look, rock an oversized shirt with a summer circle scarf. Rather than incorporate floral print into your outfit via blouses or dresses look for pants and shorts with pretty prints. I love this pair available at Karmaloop. They're edgy but flirty at the same time. Another cool piece is this skirt from NASTY GAL. Finally add a pop of color to your outfit with a bold bag. Check out this bright H&M satchel.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Melissa Black

I noticed Melissa walking to her last exam of the semester in an outfit that brightened up the rainy day. Her oversized floral blouse took the ubiquitous floral print trend and made it edgy and original. I loved how she incorporated light pink Forever 21 colored denim shorts into her outfit rather than just wear classic denim cutoff shorts. Her overall look was very flirty and feminine but her Converse All-Stars gave the ensemble a bit of a rockstar feel. Converse All Stars are very practical shoes to have on a college campus. They can make any outfit more edgy and give it a traditional All-American vibe. Melissa and I talked about a trend she hopes to see this spring, Miley Cyrus and her advice to aspiring Fashionistas.

Name: Melissa Black

Major: Kinesiology

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What is one trend you would like to see become popular this spring?

Melissa Black: Colored denim shorts. They can add color to any outfit and are a unique trend right now. I would like to see more people embrace them!

CF: Who is the most fashionable female celebrity, and why?

MB: Miley Cyrus. She can't be tamed. I love how she wears whatever she feels in the moment and doesn't worry about what others think.

CF: What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring Fashionistas?

MB: Always dress like you have somewhere better to be. No matter what the weather is like.

How To: To recreate Melissa's flirty finals look, start with a pair of colored denim shorts. This style of Forever 21 shorts come in a variety of colors that are perfect for summer. Like Melissa, I love when Fashionistas wear oversized blouses with cutoff shorts. This Topshop tank looks amazing paired with coral colored shorts. If tie-dye isn't your thing, check out this floral print kimono available at NASTY GAL. Finally, throw on a pair of Converse All Stars and you're ready to brave the rain and finals week.

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Adam LeWinter

I spotted this preppy Fashionisto rocking a casual yet put together outfit during the start of finals week. I loved how he wore understated colors but added a pop of color with his ribbon belt. His simple black sweater is a great piece because he can incorporate it into almost any outfit. Rather than wear gym shorts or sweatpants — an unfortunate trend seen on this campus — he opted for a cleaner look and wore khaki shorts. Adam also wore a pair of ASV Mariner II Sperry Top-Siders. I am obsessed with this classic shoe and love when men can rock boat shoes. Adam and I talked about his preppy style, his signature Ray-Bans, his favorite brand and a trend he hopes to see this spring.

Name: Adam LeWinter

Major: Secondary Education and History

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your style?

Adam LeWinter: Preppy and casual.

CF: What is one accessory you never leave the house without?

AL: My Ray-Ban Wayfarers.

CF: What is your favorite brand and why?

AL: J.Crew because it's preppy and reasonably price. It also makes a statement.

CF: What is one trend you would like to see become popular this spring?

AL: I would like to see more yellow, pink and blue button-downs.

How To: To recreate Adam's preppy spring look invest in a pair of khaki shorts. Adam is wearing 11″ Stanton shorts from J.Crew. A note to Fashionistas: we can feminize Adam's look by finding similar pieces meant for women. For example, check out these 3″ Chino shorts from J.Crew. They come in a variety of colors, and are extremely versatile for spring and summer. Accessorize with a bright ribbon belt. Personally, I love the Vineyard Vines Grosgrain belt. It's a great way to add a nostalgic feel to any outfit. Adam's sweater is a basic piece that every Fashionisto should have in his closet. A fun way to take the simple black sweater trend and vamp it up is to add a little color. This sweater from Urban Outfitters is unique because of the two red stripes that stand out on the black fabric. Finally, put on your favorite sunglasses and a pair of Sperry Top-Siders and you're ready to ace your finals.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Demetria DeVincenzo

I mentioned in my post last week that floral print is one of the biggest trends that will be spotted on Fashionistas in the spring and summer months. This week's Fashionista is already exhibiting that trend. I noticed her off the shoulder blouse (from H&M) and loved the pretty print and flirty feel. I also loved how Demetria chose to take the ubiquitous denim short trend and make it her own by wearing a pair of slightly destroyed high waist denim shorts. This gives her outfit a more tailored and classic look. She accessorized simply with a few silver bangles, a bold Tory Burch tote and a pair of awesome gladiator sandals. Demetria was on her way to class so we were able to speak only briefly about Kourtney Kardashian, a trend Demetria hopes to see this spring and her advice to aspiring Fashionistas.

Name: Demetria DeVincenzo

Major: Textiles Merchandising and Design

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: Who is the most fashionable celebrity, and why?

Demetria DeVincenzo: Kourtney Kardashian. I love her style.

CF: What is one trend you would like to see become popular this spring?

DD: Big printed headbands.

CF: What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring Fashionistas?

DD: Don't be afraid to be different.

How To: The first step to achieving Demetria's flirty, spring look is to rock a pair of denim high-waist shorts. One of my favorite pairs is available at Topshop. These shorts fit and wear well and the studs give them a unique look. Demetria's bright colored bag is also extremely trendy. Bold bags range in price making them an accessible trend this season. The Ella tote by Tory Burch is an amazing piece, I absolutely love the color selection. The last aspect of Demetria's outfit that is crucial to any Fashionista's wardrobe are her gladiator sandals. This is a reoccurring trend and every spring and summer I see Fashionistas everywhere incorporating the Grecian-inspired footwear into their outfits. I am obsessed with this pair of Dolce Vita gladiator sandals, available at Free People. The simple leather and small studs make these a versatile pair of sandals. If you want to take this trend to the next level, check out these Ecote knee high gladiator sandals, available at Urban Outfitters. These sandals put a unique spin on the gladiator trend.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Isabel Levy-Nance

Spring is finally here and this Fashionista embraced the transitioning of seasons by wearing trendy high-waist shorts, a floral cropped top, fringe boots and a fur vest. My black high-waist shorts are my biggest staple piece this season. They are so versatile and I love how I can wear them casually to class or even dress them up for a night out. Floral print is also very trendy this season. It's fun and flirty but can also add a sophisticated feel to any outfit. Another aspect of Isabel's outfit that I love is her necklace. It's simple yet bold at the same time. She picked it up at Buffalo Exchange, a cool thrift store in New York City. We chatted about her staple pieces this season, her biggest style inspiration and her favorite brand.

Name: Isabel Levy-Nance

Major: Human Development

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What do you consider to be one of your staple pieces this season, and why?

Isabel Levy-Nance: I love American Apparel leotards. They go with high-waist shorts, jeans and skirts. Both high heels and flats look good with them, and they can be worn casually or be worn to dinner or to a bar. Leotards are so versatile.

CF: What or who is your biggest style inspiration, and why?

ILN: I love the '80s look. High-waist shorts, red lipstick and tube tops are my thing. I love neon too. Anything with some sort of attitude I buy.

CF: What is your favorite brand, and why?

ILN: I am obsessed with NASTY GAL. It is so creative and the style is sexy but classic at the same time. Everything has its own touch to it, nothing is average. You can find anything and everything on NASTY GAL, and their sales are always really amazing — especially for jewelry.

How To: To incorporate Isabel's spring look into your own wardrobe, invest in a pair of high-waist shorts. American Apparel's tap short are a great piece because they fit comfortably and come in a variety of colors. While black is my go-to color due to versatility I also own this pair in blood orange which adds a unique feel to the style. While rocking high-waist shorts, also incorporate this seasons trendiest pattern – floral print. I am obsessed with this floral print bralet from Topshop. Another cute top is this Kimchi Blue lace-up floral bustier, available at Urban Outfitters. Finally, take Isabel's advice and check out your local thrift stores for unique and trendy jewelry pieces.