Through my experience as a D&M
major, there are times when I question why I chose this major, why do I enjoy
fashion? Sometimes I doubt myself and feel like I’m in the wrong field. Having
this time in Italy has completely changed this view. I wanted to touch on some
things that have recaptured my love for fashion through my abroad experience.
The all black outfit is
very much alive in Florence, but I’ve noticed the girls pay so much attention to
detail. They have edgier pieces, high platform boots, a structured jacket, or a
cool accessory. I never knew black could look so chic. Even though I don’t own
enough black to pull off this look, it really shows how you can individualize a
monochromatic ensemble. Plus, there is a sense of confidence I see in these
girls which inspires me to "own" whatever look I come up with.
There are some pieces I would never
see in the US, like the big furry jackets that are “in” right now, sky high
platform boots, pops of bright lip colors, etc. There are some people in the US
who would go for it, but I think people would give you a strange look. I feel
like European fashion is not judged as much, some things can be totally out there,
but I think people tend to accept it more. I’ve seen all colors of hair, shaved
on one side or the other, which I used to think was an odd choice, but now I
feel like I appreciate their confidence in their look.
Having a limited wardrobe has also been a lot of fun to play around with. Since I only have so many pieces, making a new outfit is always enjoyable. Plus, when I buy a new piece I can figure out multiple ways to incorporate it in my wardrobe. People-watching is where I have found new inspiration as well as fashion blogs and my friends from school. A lot of my friends I’ve made here study fashion as well, and I think we all enjoy each other’s style and play off that. Their passion and creativity has inspired me to think differently and have confidence in my look.
It appears I’ve gone on a bit of a rant, but the overall point is that, living in Italy and traveling Europe has opened my eyes again to my love of fashion. It has also allowed me to appreciate how other people dress, instead of judging them based on their aesthetic. We all have our own style and there are no rules!
Having a limited wardrobe has also been a lot of fun to play around with. Since I only have so many pieces, making a new outfit is always enjoyable. Plus, when I buy a new piece I can figure out multiple ways to incorporate it in my wardrobe. People-watching is where I have found new inspiration as well as fashion blogs and my friends from school. A lot of my friends I’ve made here study fashion as well, and I think we all enjoy each other’s style and play off that. Their passion and creativity has inspired me to think differently and have confidence in my look.
It appears I’ve gone on a bit of a rant, but the overall point is that, living in Italy and traveling Europe has opened my eyes again to my love of fashion. It has also allowed me to appreciate how other people dress, instead of judging them based on their aesthetic. We all have our own style and there are no rules!
I went to Europe last summer, and I completely agree that it seems to be more socially acceptable to make a bold fashion statement over there. It was so refreshing to see people who weren't afraid to express themselves, and it definitely inspired me to go into the field of fashion!
ReplyDeleteI find it interesting that you enjoy having a limited wardrobe. Many people would see this as a downfall but I think its empowering that you take it as an exciting challenge. I find it funny that you describe the all black outfits and express a liking for them because my wardrobe mainly consists of all black with accessories and I get a lot jokes thrown at me from my friends. Maybe I'm living in the wrong country.
ReplyDeleteI'm so jealous that you were able to have such an amazing experience there, and seems like you took home a lot more about the culture and spirit of Italy than you bargained for. I want to travel to Italy for my abroad experience and knowing now that the majority of them wear black (my favorite color), I couldn't be more excited! know I personally sometimes feel silly wearing a bold lip or statement jewelry piece, as you mentioned, so I can't wait to visit another country and step out of my comfort zone with my style. Glad you had such a great time!
ReplyDeleteI think an interesting point you brought up was fashion trends being widely accepted in places like Italy compared to here in the United States. Its important to be culturally aware and get different perspectives on the world, which is why I think focusing on international fashions is extremely beneficial; especially for our major. It allows to look passed “judgements” which would be made about certain trends in this country.
ReplyDeleteI think this is funny because a lot of the european trends you mentioned are things I would wear on a regular basis. I love wearing all black and brighting up the outfit with a colored lip. Maybe I'm living in the wrong place? I always knew I would love Europe and hearing about this only further excites me about my future adventures.
ReplyDeleteI am sooooo eager to study abroad when I get the opportunity. Reading about your experience really made me appreciate the opportunities that I already have been granted with. It sounds excited being able tot travel and experience different things that the world has to offer, from to different foods to the clothes and languages.
ReplyDeleteThis makes me sooo excited! I am so excited to study abroad in order to, like you, fully understand why I love fashion. I think getting away from the fashion stereotypes in the US will open up another door of fashion for me!
ReplyDeleteThis was an inspiring post. I understand the feeling of slightly falling out of touch with fashion. Sometimes what you need is a new, fresh view of things and I think traveling really could help that. Italy seems like an amazing experience.
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