Looks on Campus: Sara – Humber College
I first came across Sara’s eclectic fashion sense last year when I interviewed one of her classmates for an article I was writing. Since then, I’ve seen Sara around campus several times, and her ability to combine textures and colors as well as play with conventional outfit proportions is always impressive and eye-catching.
Sara 101
Name: Sara Schouten
School: Humber College
Major: Fashion Arts
Hobbies/Interests: “Fashion, music, old films, and tea.”
Let’s Talk Fashion
Who or what inspires your style? “I gain a lot of inspiration from old films and style icons from other eras. I’m also inspired by street style and my peers in my program.”
Where do you like to shop? “I like to shop at vintage and thrift shops; my favorite spot in Toronto is Kensington Market. I also shop at stores that are stylish but affordable like H&M and Forever 21.”
What or who are your style inspirations? “Edie Sedgwick is my biggest style inspiration. Her look was iconic but so effortless; I am starting to see parts of her style reflected in my wardrobe.”
Why did you choose this particular outfit? “I put this outfit together because I liked the combination of a high-waisted skirt paired with a cropped top. Over-the-knee boots, and tights worn with the skirt make this outfit appropriate to wear in the winter. My structured purse fits all my essentials – I found it for two dollars at a little thrift store in my hometown.”
How would you describe your sense of style? “I would say my sense of style is ’60s feminine with an edge.”
What fashion advice would you give to other students looking to improve their style? “Look for classic pieces that you will wear often and versatile pieces that can be used in several different outfits.”
What are your favorite trends right now? “My favorite trend right now is jumpsuits. They are extremely versatile and can be dressed up or down, and paired with countless accessories.”
If you could raid anyone’s closet, who would it be and why? “I would raid Carey Mulligan’s closet because she is one of my favorite actresses and I love everything she wears, on and off the red carpet.”
Elements of Sara’s Outfit
Sara is one of those girls who can take a vintage outfit and turn it into something that feels instantly fresh and relevant. She has impeccable taste and her neutral ensemble, seen against her striking red lips and hair, creates a strong, chic visual. I initially chose to photograph Sara because I was so taken with the way she mixed a leather skirt with such a neat, prim jacket. Here are some more elements of her style that I found noteworthy.
1. Winter Accessories
Here we can see how Sara has accessorized her winter outerwear with a chunky wool scarf and trendy pair of earmuffs. The monochromatic color scheme seen above plays up her striking red hair and blue eyes.
2. Proportions and Textures
I love how Sara played with proportion in this outfit. The high-waisted leather skirt paired with the black crop top create a flattering silhouette, while the unique mix of textures also adds an interesting element to the look.
3. Bag
A boxy vintage handbag is perfect for toting around those small school day essentials. Paired with a leopard printed glove, it screams old school Hollywood glamor.
4. Boots
Sara’s over-the-knee boots add a certain trendiness to her ensemble that helps prevent the outfit from becoming too retro.
5. Jewelry
A single, delicate gold bow bangle is flirty and feminine and adds a sophisticated touch to the ensemble. Sara’s owl pendant is fun, fashionable, and perks up the basic black of her look. It also plays to the gold trend that is happening in fashion right now.
What do you think?
Do you like Sarah’s style? What do you think of her vintage look? Are you inspired by the ’60s? What do you think of her outfit’s proportions? Let us know in the comments!
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Posted on on February 22, 2011 / Filed Under: Looks on Campus / Tags: 1960s, Carey Mulligan, cropped top, Edie Sedgwick, Humber College, jumpsuits, leather skirt, leopard print, Looks on Campus, Over-the-knee boots, owl necklace, Retro, Vintage
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Charlene
I don’t know if I’d call this “eclectic” persay, but she definitely has a very classically inspired style that translates well into her modern style. I really like how she plays up her natural features with makeup and simple accessories. Plus, I dig the gloves, but that’s probably because I think I own the same pair!
Danielle
I really love this outfit and I so want that necklace!
Elana
love her owl necklace! nice find
Paula*
I like how she put everything together. Very nice :)
Molly
cute! especially love that thrifted purse!
alex
hipster doing it right :))
Ashley
I think she’s stunning :) I love her style, I wish I could pull off this level of classy every day!
Kate B.
Perfect cold-weather outfit! But too dressy for class.
Trisha
What a gorgeous girl. I love every part of her outfit. So classy and put together.
Ashley
I think CLASSY suits her best!!
Kristina
I love her look. She looks appropriate for the weather and has great accessories! I have the same owl necklace. :)
maxine
Her style looks classy with an edge to me and I so would emulate her style but make it my own. I also love the golden owl jewelry since it is unique and no one has it but instead of an owl, I would love it if I found a silver cat necklace.
Samantha
FINALLY, you guys posted a “Looks on Campus” that isn’t ordinary! I love that Sara has short hair – it makes her stand out. And the big owl necklace is a great, unique statement.
Sam
I love how she put together black and brown with a bright red lip. Its unusual but really pretty.
Sweet Pea
I like H&M and forever21 too:)