Tommy Hilfiger: an American fashion icon as well as a former resident of my mom’s hometown. Both with humble upbringings in Elmira, NY as well as children in large families (my mom was one of six, and Tommy is one of nine), my mom has passed on the innate need to love and support the empire he has built. I grew up sitting attentively at my Aunts’ feet as they reminisced about saving their babysitting money to purchase the coveted pair of red, white and blue stars and stripes jeans from Tommy’s first store, People’s Place.
Despite my upbringing in Suburbia, New Jersey, I like to think that Tommy and I come from the same roots, and that, consequently, are style soul sisters. This intimacy is why I eagerly await the release of footage from the Tommy Hilfiger Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week show each season for shreds of inspiration to add to my own classic American collegiate wardrobe. Of course, Tommy Hilfiger autumn/winter 2015 exceeded my expectations by introducing a football inspired collection that featured models strutting down an astro turf runway, complete with yard lines, stadium lights and a big screen to boot. Speaking of boots, models donned laced heels reminiscent of football cleats, as well as athletic-inspired gear including sweaters stitched with varsity numbers, rugby stripes and silky baseball jackets.
Despite Providence College’s lack of a football team in their varsity athletic program (we like to gloat that we’re “undefeated”), I was inspired by Tommy’s perspective of athletic inspired sportswear. In my outfit, I decided to layer my Banana Republic sweater that dons the (lucky?) number 78, similar to Tommy’s collection, over my brother’s checkered flannel to add pattern and color. I paired these tops with my flouncy Banana Republic skirt to add femininity to an otherwise rough n’ tough look, as well as my own laced flats (because heels can be so not practical on campus). The tartan plaid bag and equestrian inspired cap may not scream “touch down,” but they finish off a look that will turn heads at your next tailgate. I guess I’ll just have to settle for intramural flag football under the lights (sigh).
Get My Look: 1. Graphic varsity sweater 2. Lace-up flats 3. Flouncy Skirt
