Ryder McEntyre, Campus Carrier Graphics Editor
A lot of people ask me how and where I get my ideas for outfits. The answer I always tell them? My own personal taste. Though this is not entirely true, it’s just an easy answer because I’m usually rushing to class or work, and I don’t have time to take people shopping.
But today you’re in luck. I find my inspiration from like-minded, yet infinitely more talented folks who just happen to be style bloggers. They spend hours each day reading the latest in fashion news, interpreting that into their own flavor we call “style” and selecting outfits which push the boundaries of everyday looks for everyday stylehounds like us. I’ve picked two bloggers to whom we should all pay attention because they are at the junction between the latest and greatest in style considerations, yet their looks are still somewhat attainable.
Ladies first. I’ll start off with one of my favorite blogs of all time – Manrepeller. Okay girls, don’t be scared away by the site’s name. The Man Repeller was started by Leandra Medine, and her quirky charm has landed her front row seats at numerous Fashion Week events. Her style is characterized by how women should love trends for the sake of loving them, not whether or not they impress men. Medine once said in an interview with Pauleanna Reid that “Man Repelling isn’t about getting dressed and saying ‘How am I going to repel a man today?’ It’s about dressing for yourself and liking what you’re wearing.” As a result, most of Manrepeller is geared towards risky fashion choices and defying the norm with throw-backs like acid-washed harem pants, huge shoulderpads, overalls and even full-length jumpsuits. While such risks are not suggested for the newcomer to style exploration, the Man Repeller philosophy is inspirational nevertheless. In addition to covering Medine’s personal outfits (some of which have even inspired me), she covers a wide and relevant scope of fashion and runway news as it relates to every day style.
Gentlemen, we’re usually at a loss for where to turn for style advice. I’ve got your answer: ClosetFreaksblog. Anthony Urbano, a friend of mine, runs a tight and well-dressed ship. His eye for menswear is uncannily cutting edge, with a definite eye for silhouttes even while deploying multiple layers to combat cold New York City winters. Urbano has the unique ability to create unexpected contrasts within an outfit. For example, he can throw on some dark acid wash jeans and combat boots with a chunky knit sweater, scarf and parka, and it totally works. The best part? His daily outfits – usually interspersed among general runway and fashion news where he curates his favorite looks from shows – always have links to buy either the exact piece he is wearing, or a piece very similar at a lower price. Talk about accessible style!
With these two blogs, I hope you guys get a better idea of where to check every day for style inspiration. Looking better makes you feel better, and it only takes a few extra minutes in the morning to go from peasant to noble. Trust me.