STYLE GURU BIO: Julie Jimenez

Hello! My name is Julie Jimenez, and I’m ecstatic to return as a Style Guru for Kent State. I’m a fourth year ASL major, with Spanish and Education minors. I’m all about releasing one’s self using the human body as living, breathing pieces of art. This applies to my passion for all forms of movement, and using the body as a canvas for endless forms of expression through the discovery of personal style (which, as I learned can actually just be a big mess of inspiration from hundreds of places).

I DIY my own pieces as much as I can, and have more than the typical amount of pins on my “DIY Inspo” pinboard. Most of my closet is either thrifted (shoutout to Beacon’s Closet in NYC), handed down (my mother’s closet in the ’80s was pretty brag-worthy) or collected from my travels. My favorite shops so far range from a few brands in the US, to Ireland, the UK, Colombia and, of course, the countless artists on Etsy and small shops located throughout NYC. My next stop is Vietnam, so I’m pretty stoked about what I’ll find there! I still say that one of the biggest natural highs one can get is at a concert, which is why I also look to the rock/alternative music scene for ideas.

As I enter my senior year, I’ve begun to reconsider where I invest my money, and have recently found myself buying from sustainable and charitable brands. I count on Modavanti and Tom’s Marketplace to find pieces that look as great as they make you feel knowing that you’ve enriched someone else’s life, even if just a bit. I’ve always loved the sea (mermaid-green is the only color I’ll dye my hair) and for ocean related wardrobes my go-tos are Volcom and Seea (for the most fashionable rash guards!). I’m very passionate about adventure sports and dance as well as my almost-daily yoga practice. For apparel that withstands my need for handstands, sprints and splits, I’ve found myself browsing the Prana and Patagonia webstores way too much! For city hikers, I definitely recommend my Palladium boots and anything Athleta!

I’m glad to somewhat remain true to my identity as a New Yorker by birth. I was born in Maspeth, Queens, and have been navigating the tricky streets of Manhattan alone since age 16. I seek motivation based on who and what I see in this fashion mecca. I’ve been collecting the Thursday Styles section of the New York Times ever since fall 2008, and seek inspiration from there, as well as whatever magazines I can get my hands on.

In high school I was voted “Most Unique,” and I think it definitely shows in many of the ensembles I wear. This is why I adore the works of Alexander McQueen and the art of Lucy McRae. Miu Miu is pretty much the stuff my dreams are made of!

I have limited room, and so much I want to share. I guess you’ll just have to check out my upcoming posts as I document stylish and quirky Fashionistas throughout KSU!

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