The changing of seasons always brings closet struggles. Figuring out how to incorporate your favorite summer pieces into your fall and winter wardrobe can be tricky. 

Alema and I share a political theory class together and today her look had me wondering whether I should dig out my own short overalls and give them a try despite the chilly weather outside. Her look is proof that you don’t have to retire your summer favorites just because of the continually dropping temps.

Alema 101

Name: Alema

Major: Asian and Middle Eastern Cultures and Political Science

Hometown: Manhattan

Year: Senior

College: Barnard College at Columbia University

Let's Talk Fashion

Where did you get the pieces you are wearing? "I got the pink camo shirt from Urban Outfitters, the overalls from H&M, my shoes from Kids Foot Locker, and my hat from a street vendor."

Who or what inspires your style? "I follow a lot of fashion bloggers on Instagram and YouTube. My favorite[s] right now are probably @slickwoods and @uglyworldwide. I also really love Kehlani and Rihanna's sense[s] of style; they both inspire me a lot."

Where do you like to shop? "I like shopping at Urban Outfitters, H&M, [and] Forever 21. I have a lot of pieces from fast fashion places, but I also have a lot of thrifted pieces or things people gave away. I think a lot of those pieces are more unique and also remind me to be more conscious of being a consumer of fast fashion."

Why did you choose this particular outfit? "I chose this outfit because I thought it was going to be 70 degrees and sunny, but then it was cloudy and cold so [I] could have used a jacket with the outfit."

What fashion advice would you give to other students looking to improve their style? "I think fashion is really about comfort with your body and yourself. I don't usually plan my outfits. This one I did because I wanted to feel good today, and dressing the way I want gives me a lot of comfort and happiness. Some people say that there are clothes that look good on certain body types, etc... but I don't believe that. I really think if you feel good in what you're wearing, that's fashion too. I also think I used to be more into consuming, but when I was younger and couldn't just buy whatever I wanted so it was always fun putting new outfits together out of things I already had."

What are your favorite trends right now? "Trends that I'm into right now are probably this pink and colored camo trend, dad hats which I will wear forever, and colored lens sunglasses."

Do you have any favorite fashion designers? "I don't have any particular favorite fashion designers but I do really love what Rihanna is doing with her fashion and makeup line."

If you could raid anyone’s closet, who would it be, and why? "I would definitely raid Rihanna and Kehlani's closet[s]."

Elements of Alema's Outfit

1. Baseball Cap + Chain Necklace

Alema’s simple “dad hat,” her multiple piercings, and her chain necklace are subtle touches that reflect her personal taste. Each element is different from the rest, but they come together in a look that's thoughtful and cohesive.

2. Chunky Rings

There’s just something about adding a couple of rings that makes whatever you’re wearing seem more stylish. I love the mismatched rings Alema picked for this outfit. 

3. Holographic Shoe Details

The popularity of Adidas doesn’t seem to be dwindling and Alema's pair are the most unique ones I’ve seen yet. Everyone might have a pair of Superstars, but her holographic detailed ones stand out from the crowd.

What do you think of Alema's look?

Would you wear short overalls in the fall and winter months? Are you obsessed with her holographic detailed Adidas? Comment below!