Author: Pooja Bhaskar

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Ty’shon Hargrove

I truly admire any Fashionista/o who knows how to mix and match prints and patterns. When I spotted this week’s Fashionista I instantly fell in love with how she showed off her creative side through her clothing. There is nothing more admirable than a Fashionista/o who loves to take risks.

Name: Ty’shon Hargrove

Major: Fashion Merchandising

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

Ty’shon Hargrove: Today everything I am wearing was from a thrift store from head to toe, my pants are reconstructed thrift and the earrings were made by me.

CF: What inspired your look today?

TH: I was inspired by comfort and the warm weather conditions.

CF: Who is your style inspiration?

TH: I am inspired by everyday people; living in the city is a very inspiring place; there are so many eccentric beings roaming the streets. Also, my family has served as a huge influence on my style, from my grandparents to my parents.  I love and enjoy looking back at old photos and grasping a feel of inspiration from the peak of their individualized styles.  Additionally, I am equally inspired by the effects of colors, designs and media stars. I believe I can go on forever, but I think you get the point! At the end of the day, my style is limitless and heavily influenced but nevertheless –– it is my own!

CF: Now that spring has finally hit Richmond, what spring trends are looking forward to?

TH: Personally, I just do my own thing!

How To: Recreating this look requires all Fashionistas to dig deep in their closets and pull out those unique and daring pieces. Starting this look off from the bottom, find a pair of printed pants. Right now Uniqlo, my latest obsession, has a fantastic selection of drape pants. Then find a crochet top and wear a denim shirt over it. Think beads for jewelry and make sure you have plenty of it like this Fashionista!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Anna Webb

What I love about spring fashion is that it can be understated while still being fashion forward. I also love any Fashionista/o who turns away from the typical bold colored spring look. This week’s Fashionista knew how to rock a bold print and wear a spring appropriate outfit, but with a twist.

Name: Anna Webb

Major: Fashion Merchandising

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

Anna Webb: My top, pants and necklace were Forever 21, the bag was a thrift store find and my shoes were from Bakers. Just as a personal interest story, my backpack was given to me by a beloved high school teacher before he passed away, so it’s special.

CF: How would you define your personal style?

AW: My day to day style is very minimal. I love solid colors and am very picky when it comes to patterns and prints. I love anything leather! It’s my kryptonite.

CF: If you had unlimited funds to spend on piece of clothing or accessory, what would it be?

AW: If I had unlimited funds I would buy literally any piece from Balmain. I love the craftsmanship and sophistication! 

CF: Since you mentioned that you had a blog, what are some of your personal favorite blogs?

AW: That’s hard to say, I have so many! My blog, If I Were Artemis, is fashion and design related, so I naturally gravitate towards blogs like that. I love Shauna Haider’s blog, Nubby Twiglet, Costra y Ampolla, Sandra Hagelstam’s, 5 Inch and Up, and this awesome tumblr called, The Design Blog.

How to:  A staple piece to recreate this look would definitely be a striped blouse. Pair it up with a neutral toned skinny pant and do not forget the statement necklace to give this look a pop. Finish this outfit off with a pair of strappy sandals for comfortable walking all across campus. However, if you’re feeling daring, try a pair of flatforms to add a little edge.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Dominique Madrid

Right now there is no hotter trend to experiment with than the menswear meets women’s fashion. I personally love mixing masculine pieces into my wardrobe and everyday look to give any outfit an edgy kick. It’s a great way to stand out from the crowd without being over the top. This week’s Fashionista displayed a great way mixing prints with the menswear style.

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

DM: I am wearing a Forever 21 blazer and jeans, a Nordstrom Point of View thrifted button-up, Deena and Ozzy loafers from Urban Outfitters, Ray-Ban Wayfarers and an H&M bag.

CF: What spring trends are you looking forward to?

DM: Cut outs! I love the unexpected detail in peekaboo pieces and it can be very sexy or even modest. Black and white is another trend I look forward to; I’m all about color for the spring, but black and white is so classic that it is easy to transition in from day to night.

CF: How has studying in Richmond affected your sense of style?

DM: The diversity within VCU is so profound that it’s exciting to take inspiration from other students and cultures while incorporating it into my own style.

CF: What is your go to item in your wardrobe?

DM: My DIY thrifted Levi cut-off shorts. I can quickly throw them on with a crop top or over a pair of black tights for the colder months.

How To: The key to recreating this outfit are prints and a great blazer. It is always a great idea for all Fashionistas/os to invest in a blazer that can be worn professionally and can be dressed down for class. Instead of the typical single colored button-down, add a twist with a printed button-down instead. I absolutely adore these snake printed loafers this Fashionista wore and would definitely suggest them to anyone who is willing to take a fashion risk.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Britnie Lenee Dates

Besides the occasional frigid cold wind, I am an avid fan of winter. Chunky sweaters, warm coffee and scented candles are just a few of my winter favorites. Personally, the most unfortunate part of winter would be attempting to stay warm while looking chic at the same time. It is easy for Fashionistas/os to get lost in the layers and oversized coats. Luckily, this week’s Fashionista knows how to layer up for the cold days.

Name: Britnie Lenee Dates

Major: Fashion Merchandising

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

Britnie Lenee Dates: I’m wearing a thrifted cardigan and coat, khakis from the Gap, a tank top, a bag from Victoria’s Secret and loafers from Nordstrom Rack.

CF: Where do you get your style from?

BD: It’s kind of cliche to say but my style comes from anywhere and everywhere. Lately I’ve been really into trying out different styles that I wouldn’t normally do. I never used to wear sneakers or anything that resembled sweats and now those are some of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe. I love dressing up my comfy clothes and making them look chic. I think being in college has definitely inspired me to take on a more casual approach to what I wear.

CF: What is your go-to piece in your wardrobe?

BD: I have like 10 go-to pieces, it’s ridiculous! Lately my white high top Converse and Timberland boots have been in heavy rotation, as have this fur coat I’m wearing and a tan trench with a fur collar. I probably wear my white and rose gold watch more than anything because it matches everything. I love pieces that are no-brainers and can make the most basic outfits look glam.

CF: Do you have any fashion pet peeves?

BD: My only fashion pet peeve is when people buy something solely for the name. Just because something is designer does not make it cute; even Chanel made mistakes.

CF: Top three favorite designers?

BD: It’s so hard to choose only three! But if I had to I would say Alexander Wang because his pieces are so cool and easy to mix, Alexander McQueen because of his attention to detail and outlook on life and Miuccia Prada because she never takes fashion too seriously. Oh and I have to add a 4th: Phoebe Philo at Celine, simply because her clothes and accessories are perfection.

How To:  Pair a simple colored tank with a pair of basic khaki pants. For the coat, you want to make a statement so try a printed coat or something with a bold color. If it is too cold in your area opt for ankle boots instead of loafers. Last but not least, for extra warmth throw on an extra cardigan under your coat.

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Evan Garrity

If there is one thing that VCU does well, it is definitely dressing in style. Just one quick walk across campus and one can spot a handful of Fashionistas. However, the Fashionistos on this campus are seriously understated. VCU’s Fashionistos know exactly what to wear when, especially this week’s Fashionisto, who pulled together a simple and crisp look on a gloomy and rainy day.

Name: Evan Garrity

Major: Business Management & Political Science

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Evan Garrity: I’m wearing a little bit of everything! Coat by Kenneth Cole, sweater by Banana Republic, shirt by H&M, jeans from Abercrombie & Fitch and boots by L.L.Bean.

CF: Describe your style.

EG: If I had to describe my style, I would call it versatile. I’m really into simple pieces that can be worn in different ways to any occasion. My favorite piece is an oxford button up, because it can be worn under a blazer at a formal event, or worn by itself with a pair of jeans when I have to run to class.

CF: Where are your favorite places to shop?

EG: I tend to love everything put out by J.Crew. Their pieces are classic, reasonably priced and really high quality.

CF: What inspires what you wear everyday?

EG: My inspiration for the clothes I wear honestly comes from the unpredictable weather of eastern Virginia. It can be snowing and 28 degrees one day, then 62 and sunny the next. The unpredictability keeps me on my toes, and makes me put a little more thought into the clothes I buy.

How To: Any Fashionisto can pull this look off with the right pieces. Every Fashionista/o should invest in a great pair of jeans that can be worn with almost every item in your wardrobe for those on the go days. A great pair of rainproof boots is a necessity for trekking across Richmond.  For the shirt, I suggest something that will add a pop of color to your look and then keep the cardigan and the coat a basic neutral color.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Annelise M. Padró

There’s nothing worse than a rainy day on campus. The wind gushing, the water splashing, and the frosty cold keeps all of us Fashionista/os from showing off are fabulous winter ensembles. Luckily, I found a Fashionista who knew how to channel her style into a practical rainy outfit.

Name:  Annelise M. Padró

Major: Creative Advertising and Spanish Translation

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

Annelise M. Padró: My shirt is by Victoria’s Secret, jeans by Tripp NYC, briefcase and shoes by Cole Haan, jacket was thrifted, my vintage driving gloves were my grandmother’s and my lipstick is by Kat Von D, called “Backstage Bambi”

CF: Who are your style icons?

AP: It’s so hard to whittle down specific style icons. I love classic pin-up girls and actresses from Old Hollywood so I go for a more classic and glamorous look; but that doesn’t mean being a diva. I hate divas. I also am really influenced by the music I listen to. I listen to a lot of classic rock so I’m inspired a lot by Jimi Hendrix, Robert Plant, Janis Joplin, etc. Like when I bought those reflective oxfords I thought “Oh my god these look like something Elton John would wear!” So, of course, I had to buy them. 

CF: Describe your style in three words.

AP: Glamorous. Minimal. Practical. I’m a model so I need to be practical; I need to be able to change clothes quickly in between go-sees and shoots.

CF: What trends are you looking forward to this spring?

AP: I don’t really pay attention to trends. I mean, I will probably have to wear whatever is trendy for a shoot or runway show so I associate trends with work and when I’m not working, I want to wear what I want. I prefer having personal style over what’s “in” and such. I actually pay more attention to menswear, I think it is a lot more fun.

How To:  The key thing to remember when putting this look together is comfort mixed with style.  Stripes are a major print right now and paired with your favorite skinny jeans will do the trick. When it comes to shoes you want them to survive the rainy weather so put down the real leather shoes Fashionistas! This Fashionista is wearing these amazing reflective Cole Haan oxfords that give us a refreshing break from the basic rain boots.  Finish this look of with a sophisticated neutral colored brief case that will balance your wardrobe.

FASHIONISTO SPOTLIGHT: Josh Moos

One of my favorite trends of all time would have to be color blocking and I love a great Fashionisto who can rock it! My first Fashionisto of the semester knew how to pull together a bold outfit in the middle of winter.  This look is effortless, easy to put together yet stylish at the same time.

Name: Josh Moos

Major: Fashion Merchandising

Year: Senior

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

Josh Moos: Today, I’m wearing a sweater and pants I got at a thrift shop, and shoes I bought at ALDO.

CF: Where/who do you take your style inspiration from?

JM: My style inspiration relies on color and prints. I like to think of myself as a diluted Johnny Makeup or Johnny Anastacio, but without the budget to afford most of what they wear.

CF: How do you describe your personal style?

JM: Hong Kong Lollipop.

CF:What are your favorite stores to shop?

JM: I really like Topman, Forever, H&M, American Apparel and anywhere else I can find fluorescents or light pastels.

CF: Are there any trends you are looking forward to this year?

JM: I recently read of a trend titled Gothic Sport. I like the idea of combining athletic wear into everyday menswear. I want to do the same, but minus the black and replace it with the color of a sunset.

How To: The key to perfecting this look is not to be afraid of color! I would suggest searching vintage shops for some buried treasures. Find a sweater that is bold-colored with a great pattern that will coordinate with a pair of colored denim. I know when colored denim first comes to mind we generally think womenswear, but this trend has definitely proven to be popular for men as well. I would stick to neutrals for the shoes just to balance the whole look and make the outfit more appropriate for the winter season.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Courtney Marcellin

The Style Guru team here at VCU never grows too far apart! This week I spotted former Style Guru Courtney Marcellin, who always looks stylish. What I loved about her ensemble was that she showed two very popular basic colors that have been prominent from street style blogs to runway fashion, black and white.

Name: Courtney Marcellin

Major: Fashion Merchandising

Year: Senior

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

Courtney Marcellin: My cardigan and top are both from H&M, my jeans are from Urban Outfitters, my shoes are Corso Como, my bag is from Madewell and my necklace is by Jene DeSpain.

CF: Love the classic red lip and cat eye; are there any other beauty trends you are currently obsessed with?

CM: I am super low-maintenance when it comes to beauty, so I pretty much stick to my eyeliner and red lips. But I also love the strong brow that’s been around the past few seasons.

CF: Where do you find style inspiration?

CM: I couldn’t pinpoint just one source of inspiration! Obviously runway collections, art and music are hugely inspiring in general, but I feel like my style just comes from whatever vibe I’m feeling or trying to portray. Like with this outfit I was going for a ‘French New Wave’ look with the stark color palette and mixture of minimal basics.

CF: What are favorite fashion blogs to follow?

CM: I love The Cut and Refinery29 for fashion news and style tips. For pure street style, Jak & Jil takes the cake. I also love Fashion Gone Rogue, the Stylesight blogs and Tumblr.

How To: The key item you need to recreate this look is a textured furry cardigan; once you have your staple piece, the rest is fair game. Adding a pop of print is always a great idea to give your outfit life. I would highly recommend stripes just like our Fashionista because they are classic and chic but very trendy at the moment. To accessorize this look, go for a vintage looking necklace that is simple but not understated. Pair it off with some black booties, a leather bag and viola; you are ready to take on a full day of classes.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Mallory Hornstra

Mother nature decided to treat Richmond this week by teasing us with a warm summer day in the middle of our frigid winter. Suddenly, the entire campus seemed to be filled with unexpected summer looks and trends which clashed terribly with the month of January. Luckily, I found a Fashionista that knew how to dress for an unanticipated warm winter day without over doing it.

Name: Mallory Hornstra

Year: Junior

Major: Communication Arts

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

MH: I’m wearing The Summer Shirt from J.Crew, a Jackie Cardigan From J.Crew, black jeans by Acne, a watch from Michael Kors and shoes from Steve Madden.

CF: Describe your personal style?

MH: I’d probably describe my style as a more urban version of business casual.

CF: Where is your favorite place to shop?

MH: My favorite place to shop is J.Crew.

CF: An item you cannot live without?

MH: An item I can not live without would probably the satchel I’m wearing now.

How To: What I love about this look is how it is simplistic, chic, and very easy to put to together. Some staple items would be a great pair of dark denim jeans and a cardigan that you can easily transition from summer to winter. Pair your cardigan with a printed collared shirt that will make this ensemble pop, whether it is stripes or polka-dots.  Also, it is important for all Fahsionista/os to invest in a great bag that will go with practically any outfit.  This Fashionista bought hers from The Cambridge Satchel Company but finding the perfect bag takes time and patience so search at vintage shops as well because you will never know what you’ll find.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Jasmin Smith

As winter becomes chillier, it’s difficult for Richmond’s fellow Fashinistas/os to brace the elements while staying chic. The days of flashy lace garments and edgy leather pants are gone and all of campus is turning to layering and winter accessories. This Fashionista found a great way to stay chic while battling the winter.

Name: Jasmin Smith

Major: Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Media Studies and General Business

Year: Senior

CollegeFashionista: Who are you wearing?

Jasmin Smith: I’m wearing cigarette high-waisted jeans from Urban Outfitters, my top is from Nordstrom, my blazer from Fantastic Thrift, my bangles are from Forever 21 and my booties and bag are both from ALDO.
CF: Do you have any style icons that you admire?

JS: Zoe Kravitz. I adore her style and free spirit. Number two is Nicole Richie. She’s really grown in fashion within this past year.

CF: I love your brightly colored lipstick! Do you have any other favorite beauty trends right now?

JS: Thank you! My lipstick is “Rebel” by M.A.C. I love a red lip! Red and plums are my favorite go to’s to spruce up my look.

CF: What is the one item in your closet you cannot live without?

JS: I can’t live without my favorite bag that was given to me by my grandmother

How To: The key to perfecting this outfit is to keep it simple with some great statement pieces. All Fashionistas/os should all have a great pair of go to jeans that can become the foundation of any outfit.  For this look try high-waisted jeans with a simple blouse and some chunky jewelry. I would recommend a neutral colored blazer that really pops with a printed scarf that has a similar color palette.  For the finishing touches experiment with a bold lip and try out a pair of high heeled booties.