How my style evolved over the past few years

You truly never lose the core, you evolve from it – C.Alilijah

I’ve always enjoyed fashion since I was a little girl. Vintage Nike windbreakers, oversized jackets, mom jeans, red berets, Vans or combat boots. Fashion has always been something I’ve enjoyed and dabbled in.

MSU Era

It wasn’t until my time at MSU that I truly embraced style by dressing up for class. Back in high school, I was used to wearing only a uniform, burgundy and khaki.

At MSU, my style was truly collegiate, but also that of a fashionista journalist. I was inspired to look great going to work and class in my sophomore year, and I did just that before COVID-19 took over and we went home.

I was always thrifting, looking for cool pieces, and getting into platforms.

My love for knee socks and miniskirts

We all know, I LOVE the movie Clueless, and I found myself becoming obsessed with knee socks and loafers, just like Cher and Dionne.

Queen of berets

I thrifted my first wool beret and never looked back. Berets, just like those inspired by Clueless, became one of my favorite accessories. It’s my staple accessory and while I haven’t worn it in a minute to give it a break, I AM FOREVER THE BERET QUEEN.

Did I mention I have over 20 styles and colors?

bRaTz dOll

In all of my fashion eras, I embraced dressing like a doll, not a literal doll, but reflecting my style from my childhood, honestly. I grew up on Fran Fine, Bratz, Clueless, Mean Girls, and baby, you already know the CHEETAH GIRLS were my people.

So, a lot of my styles reflect what I grew up watching and embracing vintage styles into modern flair.

When I finally put on pants, they ATE

Jeans and trousers became a huge part of my style because I was working in corporate and had no choice. They totally tried to ban my mini skirts, I guess.

One time for mini dress Chan

This is a look I’m currently still gushing over. I love a mini animal print dress, it’s fly, it’s chic, and it’s totally giving 25 and FINE! I tried this at 20, but at 25 it totally hits different.

Maximalist princess with only mirror pics

My phone case is becoming part of the look. I’ve also loved 3D phone cases! Unconventional ones!

Developing my style in private, but sporting it at work has been one of my favorite experiences. I got tired of just dressing up for social media videos and photos. For the last couple of months, I’ve been able to develop my style in peace.

Right now, I am remixing the clothes I already own by layering more, adding jewelry to looks, and playing around with texture.

My style journey right now is a love letter to myself. It’s an opportunity for me to have fun in my own closet without seeking validation from others. Just me and a “yeah girl, you look cute” in the mirror.