Melissa Kennelly ('16)

"I've always been obsessed with texture, I can't go fabric shopping without touching literally everything. I've recently been absolutely obsessed with putting uncommon textures and colors together. If its fuzzy I will wear it. Also Pastels have become a staple in my wardrobe, I can't really explain why other than the fact that they're just pretty colors and make me feel like a fairy princess. As far as making and designing things, I've been really inspired by outragous graphics as statement pieces. I created two recently that I want to make an entire wardrobe out of (included below) and to be honest i take a lot of inspiration from the Lazy Oaf brand. I'm hoping to do more of these kinds of prints but use them to make really structural pieces to combine the feeling of playfulness and maturity. Does that make sense? I don't know but its just an idea. This summer I'm planning to make a collection literally design by breakfast, again I have no clue why other than the fact that I really love breakfast foods. So, why not? "

I love color, specifically maroon, pastel pink, yellow, navy, champagne, indigo, cobalt, and periwinkle. For a long time I only wore neutral colored clothing and maybe a year ago transitioned back to wearing colors I loved. If I have any fashion advice to give, it's to always wear what you love regardless of what reservations you have about it or whether or not it's trendy. There is no better feeling than walking around in clothes that feel beautiful to you. Fashion is absolutely about confidence, and as an awkward and shy person I speak first with what I wear. When I'm wearing things I love and I feel like I did an A1 job on my makeup and hair it doesn't matter what life wants to throw at me, I'm gonna be feeling amazing.

My influences are A$AP Rocky, Tyler the Creator, and Erykah Badu. I love Rocky's crisp, 90s inspired streetwear, Tyler's quirky prints and colors, and Erykah's hairstyles and use of layers. I feel like establishing your look is ultimately just about finding things that make you look more like you. Sometimes you find a style and you know you're meant to own it.