Fellow College Fashion contributor Cynthia shows off her one-of-a-kind style in a paisley print button-up paired with a midi skirt. Mixing and matching patterns is Cynthia’s forte. She says, “I like to pair prints together that [typically wouldn’t] go together [and] I like to wear things unconventionally.”
Fashion is all about taking risks and daring to be different, and Cynthia’s fun look accomplishes both!
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Cynthia 101
Name: Cynthia
College: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Year: Junior
Major: Communications and Journalism
Hometown: Woburn, MA
Let’s Talk Fashion
Who or what inspires your style? “No one to be honest, [and] I don’t say that in the sense of [thinking that] I have better style than anyone. It’s just [that], personally, I try not to look at other peoples’ style[s]. I just wear what I wear and that’s just how I am!”
Where do you like to shop? “I love thrifting so much. It’s funny because ever since I started really getting into thrifting in college, I don’t usually shop at a lot of department stores. Like wearing a dress from a non-thrifted [store] is like, ‘oh my gosh, what are you doing?!’ I love to thrift at Goodwill, [the] Salvation Army, [and] Savers. I think you can find really cool things that are funky.”
How would you describe your sense of style? “I personally don’t think there’s [one] name that could describe my style because [I just] I wear what I wear. I wear whatever makes me comfortable. I don’t forcefully try to dress differently than everybody else, but I do like to pick pieces that certain people might think, ‘ooh that’s a little weird.’ Whatever I feel, I wear.”
Why did you choose this particular outfit? “I think for the most part it describes where my style is right now. It has thrifted elements to it. It’s comfortable. It kind of stands out, but kind of doesn’t. It [has] funky [prints].”
What fashion advice would you give students looking to improve their style? “Just wear what you want. I think sometimes there is this pressure to look a certain way or dress a certain way. I don’t think there is anything that anyone can do to improve their style, it’s just… wear what you want to wear and whatever makes you comfortable. Stick with your own style and you will be good! [One tip to share would be to] buy better quality clothing. I think I need to take my own advice here because I know I buy a lot of cheap things that sometimes rip on me.”
What are you favorite trends right now? “I like culotte pants. If I had to choose between jeans and pants, I would 100% wear pants all the time. I think [culotte pants are] cool because they look comfortable and stylish. You could wear them on any occasion. I’m always down for funky boots as well.”
Do you have any favorite fashion designers? “I don’t. I try not to look too much into brands… because I think it’s very superficial. Obviously there are a lot of great designers out there, but I don’t personally try to look for [their labels]. It’s just like, if I see something, I like it.”
What do you do for fun? Do you have any unique hobbies or interests? “I like to crochet. I love doing arts and crafts… it gives me sense of peace. I love photography… I try to do it as much as possible. I like to chill [and] I’m content with being inside watching TV. I have noticed [that] I like making Spotify playlists. I also like to dance.”
If you could raid anyones closet who would it be and why? “I think either Zendaya’s, Yara Shahidi, Chloe Bailey, or Halle Bailey. They each have a component of my style because my style is all over the place! They [all] have a piece of something that I would love.”
Elements of Cynthia’s Outfit
1. Paisley Button-Up
Cynthia’s top is breathable and lightweight making it suitable to wear in warmer weather. The brown and grey paisley print on it pops against Cynthia’s tan linen jacket. This treasure was found on the racks of the Salvation Army, can you believe it?
2. Midi Skirt
This skirt brings a feminine vibe to Cynthia’s overall look. The subtle pattern on this flowy gem allows her paisley print shirt to take center stage.
3. Chelsea Boots
These simple black boots are perfect for rainy days. They are comfortable, stylish, and most importantly, will keep Cynthia’s feet dry! She wore them with different colored socks for a spunky touch.
Now we want to know what you think!
Would you wear Cynthia’s look? Do you mix and match patterns? Let us know below!
As another fellow black girl blonde I loved this piece, her style, and just Cynthia in general! More Cynthia please ???