By DAVID MATTESON
Three years ago when this fashion savvy columnist started writing “The New Black,” it was intended as a place to write reviews on cosmetic products and clothing vendors.
What it has evolved into is a forum to discuss all of the style mishaps that occur on campus, as well as ways to become classically stylish and glamorous. Everything from animal print to maintaining looks to preparing for the beach was discussed in the confines of this column (sorry if this sounds a tad nostalgic).
And alas, the time has come to say au revoir. There are so many superficial topics we have left to discuss, but it’s time to move on. So, in the spirit of goodbyes these are the last tips I have to offer on the subject of finding style inspiration.
Find it online. The development of the Internet quickly brought about online shopping and eventually online style blogs. Now it’s possible to find out what’s hot on the complete opposite side of the globe in a matter of seconds. Style, fashion, glamour and inspiration are all just a click away.
Generally speaking, fashion blogs feature photographs of chic urbanites as well as a breakdown of the items they are wearing and who styled them. For example, lookbook.nu is an open forum for stylists to post photos from their portfolio. This website is a great way to find looks that are inspiring and steal elements from the look that one can incorporate into his or her personal style.
Another great way to find inspiration online is to look at the websites of the stores one loves. It’s always interesting to see how the in-store stylists choose to pair items. For example, Forever 21 and Zara are fast fashion stores popular amongst high school students, and their websites often have fantastic ideas on what to pair certain items with. Overall, the Internet offers thousands of possibilities for finding style inspiration.
Find it in magazines. Sometimes this is a less popular option than seeking inspiration online because one has to pay for fashion magazines. However, there is something so romantic about flipping through the glossy pages of Vogue or GQ while basking in the warm summer sun.
For the general reader, analyzing fashion magazines is like reading another language. First of all, one has to disregard the notion to look past advertising, which most readers do subconsciously. The advertisements in magazines are often the best part, as they are usually photos, which identify a brand’s signature look. If one is fond of the look, then he or she should explore the brand and decide whether or not to buy the items shown.
Secondly, the styles and designers professional magazines feature are often extremely expensive. Unless one is rolling in the dough, think of the styles as guidance. One can often find clothes similar to the featured items at half the price at stores such as Zara or H&M.
Reading fashion magazines is a true necessity for any style lover. The ideas they offer, and the forum they present ideas, are a fantastic and glamorous way to increase one’s trend knowledge.
Find it in others. Amid the disastrous fashion tragedies of Boone are those students who truly look fantastic. From these select fashionable teens, one may become inspired to change or improve his or her own look.
Finding inspiration in others is often the best way to gain style. It’s just a matter of complimenting someone on a piece one likes and asking where he or she purchased it. Think of the halls as a fashion catwalk with models you can actually talk to. Plus, complimenting others on their look is a great way to socialize and make others feel more confident.
Fashion is greater than art because it’s something you utilize everyday. Finding inspiration in the clothing one wears is necessary and can be developed in a variety of ways. Seek out inspiration and keep in mind the tips this column has offered throughout the past three years.