STYLE GURU BIO: Jenna Paternostro

September 2nd, 2015 at 2:00am

Everyone has something that gives them a sense of belonging. In today’s society there’s constant pressure for young girls to feel accepted and feel that they are a part of the “norm.” I don’t like this idea of a stereotypical society where girls are made to feel like they should conform to standards set by the media or any of their peers. For me, having a fashion sense of my own was my sense of belonging.

I remember seeing the faces of girls on billboards and magazines and knew that I loved fashion. I remember getting so excited when I was younger whenever my mom would ask me if I wanted to go shopping with her at the mall. A teacher I had in the sixth grade said something one day that really stuck with me: “Wake up, dress up, show up and never give up.” Now, as a 21-year-old senior at Roger Williams University, this is something that has always stayed with me. As someone who struggles with anxieties and pressures on a day-to-day basis, I live by this motto. I take so much pride in the way I dress and putting together outfits that I feel best show off my personality has such a calming effect. I’m that girl that will dress up for every class, but I tell myself that even if I’m not feeling my best self that day, if I look my best I can conquer any obstacle that comes my way.

I put passion into everything I do: working hard at my global communications major and business and music minors, writing poetry or singing in my free time. This definitely shows through in the clothes I wear as well. I would say that I have a both a flirty and edgy fashion sense. I love finding a staple sundress I can wear in the summer. At the height of 5’4″, wedges are a must. I feel that giving every girl the sense that she is taller helps as a huge confidence booster. Statement necklaces also look classy with a professional outfit, or for a night on the town wearing high-waisted shorts.

As someone who has taken awhile to find their place, I feel so at home working for CollegeFashionista. Writing and fashion are two things that have a great importance in my life and I couldn’t be more excited to join the CollegeFashionista team! This is only the beginning of my career and I can’t wait to see what else is in store for me after this internship.

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