Fresh Voices, Hot Takes: Welcoming Five New Writers
I am thrilled to introduce the new cohort of talented writers joining us for Fashion Talk's Summer '24 Writing Program! This season, we are joined by a dynamic group of students from Drexel University's esteemed Design & Merchandising program. These aspiring fashion journalists bring a wealth of fresh perspectives, creativity, and enthusiasm to our team. We can't wait to showcase their unique voices and insights in the world of fashion writing.
Through this program, Fashion Talk aims to empower young fashion writers, journalists, and enthusiasts by providing a dynamic and inclusive platform for them to share insights and explore important topics within the industry.
Without further ado, here are the writers who are poised to redefine the fashion dialogue in the upcoming articles of Fashion Talk.
Let’s give them a warm welcome!
Happy reading,
Amarissa
Editor-in-Chief, Fashion Talk
Cindy Lin
“dedicated, versatile, open-minded”
My name is Cindy Lin, and I am a junior at Drexel University majoring in Fashion Industry and Merchandising. I am Chinese and was born and raised in Philadelphia, where this photo was taken. My culture and home city has a big influence on both my personality and style. In the photo, I am wearing the I.AM.GIA Lillie Dress paired with Naked Wolfe Impact Boots and the Le Cagole Rhinestones Bag. My interest in fashion reflects my love for experimenting with style as a form of self-expression. I hope to make an impact on the industry by advocating for a more sustainable and ethical future for both humans and Mother Nature.
My Style
I would describe my personal style as intuitive, reflecting my personality and deep value for authenticity and individuality. Influenced by music and art, my style gravitate towards timeless designs that resonate with me.
My hotlist includes a mix of elements that represent my ever-changing aesthetic. Common themes include black, white, and silver, with pops of red, pink, and animal print, as well as textures like leather and mesh.
Divina Boko
“flamboyant, curious, adventurous”
My name is Divina Boko, and I am a rising sophomore at Drexel University, majoring in communications with a concentration in journalism and minoring in design and merchandising. I live in Long Island, NY, and contrary to popular belief, that doesn’t make me any less of a New Yorker!
My love for fashion began with my father and late aunt, who dressed my twin brother and me like their personal Bratz Dolls. Every day we left the house, we were dressed to the nines, often followed by an impromptu photo shoot. This, combined with my passion for the spoken and written word, sparked my dream of becoming a fashion journalist. My ultimate goal is to one day replace Anna Wintour—though I'm starting with baby steps.
Besides my growing passion for fashion, I have an undying love for music, especially classical music. An interesting fact about me is that I am a four-time Carnegie Hall performer. I am incredibly grateful to write for Fashion Talk and hope you enjoy my work as much as I do!
My Style
I love combining cute and alluring pieces to reflect my personality. Daring and interesting clothing speaks to me, which is why I am particularly drawn to Miu Miu and Vivienne Westwood, with their unique takes on rebellion in the fashion world. Despite my bold style, I have a soft spot for adorable trinkets like Sonny Angels and my favorite, Smiskis, which provide a charming contrast to my everyday look. I put a lot of effort into my presentation because my name, Divina, means divine for a reason!
Leah Do
“driven, boundless, diligent”
Hi! I'm Leah Do and I’m from Austin, Texas. I major in Design & Merchandising at Drexel University and just finished my freshman year this past June. Growing up, I vividly remember watching "Barbie: Fashion Fairytopia" and aspiring to become a designer, inspired by Barbie's perseverance. However, after sewing for about ten years, I realized that the design route wasn't for me as I was applying to colleges. Instead, I chose Design & Merchandising to stay in the industry I love while catering to my strengths.
Now, I hope to pursue a career in the PR side of the fashion industry, exploring the various ways it curates experiences for consumers through event production and social media marketing. My high school years were filled with activism and advocacy, and I am passionate about promoting environmental consciousness and empowering Asian cultures and heritages within the industry.
My Style
Growing up in the suburbs of Austin, Texas, most students favored conformity in fashion. Like many of my peers, I often dressed in athleisure due to the year-round hot weather. Since starting school at Drexel, I've developed my style without worrying about what others wear or think.
With a passion for sustainability, I've chosen to reinvent my wardrobe by adding smaller pieces rather than creating a new one entirely. For example, I've incorporated classic items like cowboy boots and a dainty Kendra Scott necklace. When I do bring in new pieces, I look for items that add a unique flair to otherwise mundane outfits, such as cat jeans or Jennie x Gentle Monster sunglasses with charms.
I also express myself creatively through the music I listen to daily. Two artists I admire for their influence on both music and fashion are Sabrina Carpenter and Red Velvet. I love that even after ten years, they stay true to themselves and their passion for connecting with people.
Olivia Zimmerman
“thoughtful, enthusiastic, optimistic”
Hi, I’m Olivia! I’m a rising junior at Drexel University, studying Design & Merchandising. I’ve lived in Philly my entire life, immersed in the city's art, sculptures, and murals, which have inspired my love for fashion and thrifting. I enjoy finding unique vintage pieces to curate my personal style, typically looking for colorful items with embellished details.
My Style
My style is influenced by Y2K fashion, characterized by bold and playful colors, patterns, and textures. My hotlist is inspired by the trends and styles that influence me and my personal aesthetic. I am particularly drawn to beading, lace, ruffles, rhinestones, and floral decals. In terms of music and cultural trends, I gravitate towards sleek and aesthetically appealing designs.
Redeate Lemma
“passionate, opinionated, independent ”
Hello everyone, I’m Redeate! I recently graduated in June from Drexel University with a degree in Design & Merchandising, along with a minor in Art History. I grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, which is about 30 minutes from Washington D.C. My parents are first-generation immigrants from Ethiopia, so I’ve definitely gone off the beaten path in their eyes in terms of my career.
Expressing myself through personal style has been a constant outlet for me since childhood. Every day, dressing up allows me to embody both the artist and the canvas, a creative process that never gets old to me!
My Style
More is more and less is less. I'm a maximalist at heart who adores prints, vibrant colors, and the art of layering. Think boho meets grunge. When it comes to fashion, I draw inspiration from female artists for their unique perspectives. For me, embracing sensuality doesn't necessarily equate to revealing attire; it's about expressing confidence and creativity in every outfit.
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