Hello Fashionistas! My name is Amanda, but I typically go by Mandi. I have already received a bachelor’s degree in sociology and youth studies from Central Michigan University, but decided to return to school to get some training and a certificate in graphic design! I believe that my main purpose and goal in life is to, “Help to develop others through the creative arts.” Which is why I originally majored in sociology (development), and am now furthering my education with graphic design. I am a photographer for Springhill Camps and I would definitely say that photography is my favorite medium of art to create. I also enjoy drawing, painting, and ceramics. I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to write for CollegeFashionista this semester!
I greatly enjoy fashion because for me, as a creative type, it is a way in which I can express myself. Putting together a great outfit can be very similar to composing a great art piece (plus the right outfit tends to boost confidence and inspiration too). Choosing colors that flatter you, silhouettes that match your body type, and being able to choose the right pieces for specific occasions—it is all very similar to choosing the elements of a graphic design piece. A graphic designer wants each element to be in proportion to the graphic as a whole. There needs to be variety to create visual interest, but not so much that the graphic looks cluttered or confuses the viewer. The designer gets to decide if they want their piece to be symmetrical or asymmetrical; they decide the lines and shapes, where the focus is, etc.
For this look, I started by choosing my favorite skirt. “Bright Pop” by City Chic is a plus size brand. I absolutely adore this skirt because of the floral design, watercolor-like features, and it’s functionality (it has two side pockets!). This skirt looks like a painting and it is full of color! Because I want the skirt to be the main focus of the outfit, I chose to pair it with a plain black long sleeve v-neck T-shirt. Because I frequently wear this outfit to work (and it’s winter so it’s cold), I had to find a good pair of closed-toe shoes that I could wear with it. I chose this neutral pair of faux suede shoes because the color matches everything, and they don’t distract from the skirt. My final touches to this outfit were my two main accessories. Again, because I wear this to work, I dress it up a little bit by adding a pearl bracelet and a pearl necklace.
I hope you all love this look as much as I do! To get updates on my latest posts, make sure to follow my social media!
