I am here to break down your Midwestern misconceptions.

Ohio often suffers from a bad fashion reputation. “Ohio, what’s going on there?” people may say to themselves. If you have never visited, images of cornfields and dairy farms may spring into your mind.

Well folks, I am from Columbus, the land of the buckeyes, and we Ohio State University students are proud as can be.

Enter any room on campus and yell, “O-H” and a chorus of “I-O” will likely be shouted in return. I am here to tell you Ohioans are a loyal and friendly bunch with no shortage of creativity, especially when it comes to fashion.

So what exactly defines an Ohio State University Fashionista or Fashionisto? I’ve been pondering this question ever since I learned of this exciting opportunity to show off my campus for USA Today College readers.

What separates our Midwestern sensibilities from the hard pavement of New York University or the sunny skies of Florida State University?

Is it our dedication to effortless and comfortable style? Maybe it is our distinctive layering techniques? Yes, it is, but what it boils down to is even more essential: honesty. A true OSU Fashionista/o never tries too hard. There is no striving to show off or impress. Our friendly Midwest demeanor translates into a relatable fashion sense that knows no state border.

Take this Fashionisto for example. His casual aesthetic is the perfect mix of funky and classic.

He wears cornflower blue skinny jeans with the ubiquitous oxford shoes. While this base of his ensemble reads trendy, his top half exudes grungy Americana. He layers a tie-dye tank under a fitted gray jersey cardigan, capping things off with a structured denim jacket.

This is the ideal combination for the unpredictable Ohio weather. One minute it is raining and cold, the next sunny with chilling breezes. Mastering the art of light layers is necessary to survive this climate conundrum.

Overall, this Fashionisto appears confident and prepared to tackle a long day of classes. This personality is what attracted me to him and is what constantly inspires me as I walk through the Oval, the center green of OSU.

Are you persuaded to visit Columbus yet?

If you are ever in town, be sure to check out the Short North district. This is the best shopping scene for quirky, one-of-a-kind finds.

Ladybird and Brigade (where this Fashionista found his jean jacket) are a great place for quality, urban-chic pieces. Substance stands out for its focus on sustainability while Tigertree offers creative window displays to draw even the most reluctant customer in.

Urban Outfitters is another staple for OSU students, located in the middle of campus, it is everyone’s go-to for easy weekend outfits.

Are you more of a treasure-hunter? Then Clintonville, situated slightly north of campus, is the place for you. This warm community is full of great vintage shops and local flavor. Check out Rag-O-Rama while your there. This is a student favorite for its expertly curated secondhand collection and inexpensive price points.

OSU fashion emanates the warmth of its people. Whether we are cheering on our football team, attending a monthly Gallery Hop or viewing the latest exhibition at the Wexner Center, OSU students welcome diversity in all facets.

Ohio’s nickname is “The heart of it all.” It may sound corny but I think our tourism department nailed it.

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3. CollegeFashionista: Thrifty treasures at IU
4. CollegeFashionista: The unexpected urban vibe of Boise State
5. CollegeFashionista: Summertime vibes at the University of Wisconsin – Madison