Anyone can wear designer labels, but it takes a true Fashionista to interpret designer style into a perfectly chic and unique personal translation. Inspired by Native American blankets, the fall 2011 Proenza Schouler collection revived and reinterpreted the classically off-beat trend of Southwestern style. The ensembles were colorful, earthy and intricate, each seeming readily wearable from head to toe — yet, despite all of the collection’s originality, to sport a copycat-look straight from the catwalk would prove terribly uninteresting (not to mention quite expensive). Lexie Russo, however, expertly takes hints of this runway trend, fusing it with her own style to construct a look all her own. Her burnt-clay suede shearling-lined jacket, turquoise infinity scarf, midnight-blue sweater and classic dark-wash blue jeans simplify central themes to just a few basic colors, while her printed moccasins add the same element of detail that make this trend so exciting.
Name: Lexie Russo
Major: Urban Studies
Year: Sophomore
CollgeFashionista: How has college influenced your style?
Lexie Russo: Moving to New York has definitely influenced how I dress on a daily basis. Everyone here seems so dressed up all the time, that I now hold myself to a higher standard. This school is full of well-dressed people! Here, a T-shirt and a pair of jeans are no longer acceptable — I need to have an accessory of some sort, and I need to look put together, or at least disheveled, but classily so.
CF: What has been your favorite fashion trend over the past few seasons?
LR: I was really excited when lace-up, military boots became a thing because now I can find them everywhere. They can kind of go with everything. I like pairing them with a feminine dress to give my outfits a more masculine feel. I’m also into army style coats. They have the perfect feel for fall and winter.
CF: Who/What serves as your fashion inspiration?
LR: I’m really into the whole “English Rose” look, but I like to mix in pieces that give off a more rocker vibe. So basically, anyone who has ever been in a Topshop ad is a fashion inspiration to me.
CF: Where are some of your favorite places to shop at home? In the City?
LR: When I shop, I tend to go to big name stores that have great prices. I think that you can dress anything up and make it your own. At home in Hawaii, I like to shop at Target. They actually have some great basics and some cute, casual dresses. I also really like Brandy Melville for sweaters and tops, and I’m excited that they have a store in SoHo. H&M is great for basic dresses, but I like going to Topshop for something a little funkier. Although, right now, my favorite place to by clothes is online at ASOS. Hello free shipping and returns!
How To: With an incredibly rich culture and history, it is no wonder that designers have consistently drawn inspiration from Native Americans and the American Southwest. The colors, prints and shapes of the style add character to outfits, always proving to be the shinning star; Lexie’s moccasins make her look pop — nothing else is really needed. Accessories are the easiest and safest way to sport the trend, but if you choose to wear a bold sweater, blouse or pair of pants with a print similar to those referenced by Proneza Schouler, make sure to keep everything else neutal.