My name is Alisa Helstad and I could not be anymore thrilled to be returning as a Style Guru for fall 2013! I’m currently a rising junior at Loyola University Chicago majoring in Marketing with hopes of working in the marketing department for a fashion house someday (if I can’t find someway to make shopping a career).
I grew up in what I consider the small town of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Although there are many reasons why I love my hometown, fashion is not particularly one of them. City life was calling my name and I took the opportunity to move away for school as soon as I could. I now call Chicago my new home and could not be happier with my decision. The latest trends can be seen by just strolling down Michigan Avenue. Chicago is such an inspiring city and I feel more immersed in fashion than I ever have before.
I’m also beyond pumped to be writing the ACCESSORIES REPORT this semester as I am known for my love of statement necklaces and am guilty of having a large collection of costume jewelry. In my opinion accessories can truly make an outfit. Whenever I walk out of the house without at least a necklace on I feel like my outfit looks so bland. A big statement necklace can make the plain black tee and skinny jeans outfit into a memorable and fabulous look. I’ve found that J.Crew has an excellent selection! Some of my favorite accessories (besides my big collection of statement necklaces) include a menswear watch, messenger bag, black combat boots and patterned scarves.
This summer I had my first-hands on experience in the fashion industry that included something other than being a self-proclaimed Fashionista with a knack for assembling cute outfits. I had the opportunity to work for the high fashion house, J. Mendel. This particular internship was not just filled with coffee runs and errands but valuable life lessons. I was able to help out in many of the different departments and it was exciting to see how they all interact to create and promote a successful collection.
Although my personal style is always evolving depending on the latest trends, you can usually find me shopping at BCBGeneration, Free People or Shopbop if I am too lazy to leave my couch. Fall is my absolute favorite season and I’m really looking forward to daytime looks filled with oversized cable knit sweaters, skinny jeans, high socks, combat boots and scarves. However, when daytime turns to dusk I’m quick to trade in my flats for sky high heels and playful dresses paired with a statement necklace because like the saying goes, “Life is too short to wear boring clothes!”