By Lindsey Triba, CollegeFashionista

A testament to its slogan, “Dare to be a Blue Hen,” the University of Delaware thrives on fearlessness. Since its humble beginnings in 1743, UD’s many successes have been fueled by the bold endeavors of its students. Somewhere between launching the country’s first study-abroad program and watching UD alumnus Joe Biden take on the vice presidency, it’s safe to say that the University of Delaware has proven its groundbreaking potential a few times over.

I’ll be honest: As proud as I am to be a Blue Hen, I never imagined myself studying fashion in downtown Delaware. (While they’ve made huge improvements to the Christiana Mall, Newark, Del., isn’t exactly on par with the fashion capitals of the world.) I imagined, with much wishful thinking, that a major like this would give me license to be a bit more Carrie Bradshaw-esque and saunter through New York City with the fashion industry at my fingertips. But when I come back down to earth, and specifically to Newark, it’s abundantly clear that UD’s electrifying school spirit and zeal for adventure contribute especially well to the study of fashion. UD students are encouraged to take risks and explore their passions completely free of inhibitions. Isn’t unrestricted exploration the crux of fashion altogether?

Of course, UD students embrace the omnipresent sweatpants-and-UGGs trend, too. We all need some of that as college students — we’re stressed! But it’s also a guarantee that on any given day, handfuls of students troll our campus wearing something thoughtful and unique, staying true to their individual styles or trying something entirely new. It’s a refreshing reaffirmation that fashion exists everywhere — from New York City to Newark, and everywhere in between.

This Fashionista knows what it means to take risks with her personal style and have fun with it at the same time. A standout example of street style, she looks confident and comfortable in a playful mix of delicate silk and quirky prints. Mixing prints can be tough to master, but this Fashionista nails it with a bold, colorful top and a softer polka-dot skirt. A white lace tank peeks out just enough to break up her look, and the addition of a modest, wide-brimmed hat and punchy pink peep-toes binds everything together in one eye-catching outfit. Her style is the essence of confident fashion, and a solid representation of student street style at the UD.

So this summer, as you try out new trends and collect transitional pieces for fall, take some inspiration from this Fashionista’s fearlessness. And while you’re at it, take some risks. Dare to be a trendsetter and experiment with your style to bring a piece of your favorite fashion capital straight to your college campus — wherever it may be!

This post is part of the ongoing CollegeFashionista exclusive column series for USA TODAY COLLEGE. A new post will appear every Wednesday. Be sure to tune in each week for the best in university fashion trends!

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