By Maya Jimenez, CollegeFashionista

When I talk about trendsetters at Boston University, I don’t only refer to people who dress well.

Obviously, to be considered fashionable, you need to look good on a daily basis. But to actually push the envelope and create a one-of-a-kind outfit is what I look for, not only on my campus, but everywhere I go.

It’s the reason I want to be a fashion photographer — I’m so intrigued by people who regularly take risks without seeking anyone’s approval. People who are constantly trying to do something unique are what inspire me.

Boston is full of tourists waiting to spend every last dime on clothing in shops that line Newbury Street. There are local boutiques owned by Bostonians and well-known chains like Intermix, Ben Sherman and AllSaints.

I find that people at BU love to shop. My friends and I tend to visit “Newbs” on a day off to see what’s new and grab a cup of coffee or lunch at one of the hundreds of restaurant patios.

This is one of my favorite places to people-watch because I get to ogle oodles of fashionable women. They’re everywhere, sporting espadrilles, cute handbags, wide-legged jeans, pleated maxi skirts, chiffon blouses and bold shades of red lipstick.

The men of Newbury Street are usually wearing khaki shorts, long-sleeved button-downs, leather loafers, Sperry boat shoes and aviator sunglasses with slicked back hair and a cool air about them. Ask anyone and this is most likely the description you will get of Newbury regulars.

As for me, I prefer a much more dressed-down version of this look.

This Fashionista is sporting it perfectly: a simple pair of jean shorts and a sleeveless collared button-down. The fashion is in the details with her mixed metallic accessories.

My favorite part has got to be her silver hair clip, holding her perfect ponytail together – perfectly. This Fashionista’s cateye sunglasses are possibly the most wonderful touch to her black ensemble, which is just what she needs for a stroll down good old Newbs.

You don’t always have to look ready for a red carpet moment to be fashionable. Forget your audience and only think about the things you like to wear.

Take a look at the world around you and find what inspires you. And in that, you’ll find your own unique fashion sense that you can cultivate with pride.

CollegeFashionista is a fashion blog site for those who are passionate about the latest college fashion styles and trends on campuses around the world. This Web site allows students and other young adults to view photographs of what their peers are wearing around college campuses and gain valuable insight and tips to incorporate these looks into their own college fashion wardrobes.

This article is part of the ongoing, 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!

Comments

comments

Powered by Facebook Comments

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of USA TODAY.