For many people, including myself, their personal style of today involved a series of processes and a gradual evolution to reach its current place. Looking back at past fashion senses can be comparable to revisiting early Facebook pictures for some or a sweetly nostalgic experience for others. This Finnish Fashionista’s stylistic evolution from haute hippie to clean and classy is a story in itself.
Name: Aura Lappalainen
Major: Fashion Merchandising Management
Year: Senior
CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?
Aura Lappalainen: I’m wearing a Tommy Hilfiger top, an Ellen Tracy trench, earrings from Cheap Monday, Urban Outfitters jeans and tote, Ray-Ban sunglasses and Cole Haan ankle boots.
CF: How would you describe your personal style?
AL: I used to have a rather artistic hipster style but now I’m into good quality and a more classy style. My style is a toned down hipster meets preppy; it’s also somewhat influenced by the ’90s.
CF: That’s almost like a 180 change in the style spectrum! What do you think caused this radical change in your sense of style?
AL: I think my age definitely contributed to the change. I realized I wasn’t a kid anymore; my style began to mature as I did, and brought on a more refined approach to dressing.
CF: Where do you look to for inspiration when picking outfits?
AL: Ever since I moved here at the end of 2007, I’ve been going back and forth between Finland and New York. In New York, I’m most influenced by my friends and the people I see on the streets. My style is not celebrity influenced at all!
CF: How has being in both Finland and New York influenced your fashion sense?
AL: While the location change may not have affected certain aspects of my style, I believe I’ve become more self-confident in wearing whatever I want. I do, however, still love the distinctly clean Scandinavian style that’s minimal but still chic.
CF: Where are your favorite hang out spots in New York?
AL: I love Brooklyn, especially Fort Greene and Williamsburg!
How To: Get the simple but uniquely Scandinavian look by starting with well-tailored basics like a solid button-up, skinny jeans and a classic trench. Complete your look with a pair of polished chelsea boots, a leather tote, and some edgy accessories like dagger earrings or sleek sunglasses.
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