As the chaos of the SPU fashion show begins, the designers in particular are in full swing, draping, sewing, sizing and repeatedly perfecting every aspect of their looks until the big day arrives. One student designer in particular stood out to me. She is creative, unique and has a great eye for style. I have the privilege to model for her and to see her behind the scenes and in action. She has a fresh perspective, and “perspective” is the theme of the fashion show this year, making her a standout for this year’s show.
Name: Holland Toliver
Role: Student Designer
CollegeFashionista: What made you choose your major?
Holland Toliver: I took a year off of school after high school because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. The only thing I’d been interested in was fashion because I grew up sewing and shopping like crazy. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to make a career out of that, so I took some time to think about it. After a year, it was still the only thing I wanted to go to school for, so I decided to enroll! My favorite thing about my major is that the homework doesn’t feel like homework because it’s so fun. I like doing hands-on projects, and fashion design is very hands-on in school.
CF: How would you describe your personal style?
HT: I like to dress however I’m feeling that day. I tend to gravitate towards ’70s-inspired looks, high-waisted, flare-legged pants, crop tops, etc. I like to be feminine but not too girly, and I try to work with my body type as best as possible.
CF: What inspires you?
HT: So many things! I get inspired a lot by nature and my trip abroad after highschool to Spain. Barcelona especially has reoccurred in a lot of projects. I also love vintage anything and everything, so I draw from that, too.
CF: What should we expect to see from your line that will be showed at the SPU Fashion Show?
HT: The line I’m doing for the fashion show is called Holland Happenings. Maybe it’s obvious inspiration, but I’ve always wanted to call a line that, so I started looking at historic Dutch costume, and loved the simple silhouettes with intimate details. I wanted to do a spin on traditional dutch dress but make it more modern.
Learn More: Check out Holland’s inspirations on Pinterest, and see her designs in the SPU fashion show’s coverage that will be debuting in late May. Watch for CollegeFashionista’s exclusive coverage on the backstage prep, the model practices and the big day!
