It’s a common experience for your sense of style to grow and evolve as you get older and have new experiences. And for many Fordham students, just the environment of being in New York City and surrounded by fashionable friends makes you want to step up your game. This was the experience for Andie Braithwaite, FCRH ’24. Her clothes tell the story of where she’s been and who and what she loves.
Her outfit today gives a glimpse into some of that experience. “I’m wearing Adidas Gazelles in the color kelly green because I declared last semester that that’s my new favorite color,” she said. “I’m wearing a long white skirt, and I thrifted my navy blue tank when I was in Florida for spring break, and same with this sweater.”
On top of the effortlessly cool spring look, she wears unique pieces of statement jewelry, letting them act as a keepsake for who she is. She picked up one of her rings while studying abroad in Granada, which has had an undeniable impact on her sense of style today. While studying abroad, Braithwhite discovered the hidden gems that are vintage and thrift shops in Europe. “I definitely got most of my clothes abroad at this one shop called Mosaico in Granada,” she said. The affordability and uniqueness of the pieces allowed her to experiment with her style in a way that wasn’t necessarily possible before.
Another standout piece is her oyster ring that was gifted to her by a friend. The ring is significant to her ties to the Jersey Shore, spending every summer on the beach and surrounded by family. This connection to the Shore has shaped not only a large part of Braithewhite’s personality but also her sense of style.
“Whenever I’m thrifting, I have one adjective in my mind and that’s ‘sunny,’ so for the most part, anything that makes me think of the sun and happiness and color I’ll really lean towards,” she says. Thrifting is the preferred method of shopping for Braithwhite, as is the case for her whole family. Being able to find unique and personal pieces in this way allows her to express herself best.
Starting at Fordham, she often wore what some may call the college student uniform, a baggy sweatshirt and sweatpants. But in her sophomore year, she made her biggest fashion statement yet: bangs! One small step for hair, one giant leap for self-expression! Starting there, she found it was easier to define her personal look. Along with the confidence she was beginning to gain in herself and the influence of those around her, Braithwaite was able to create a look that’s all her own. “I think that’s what fashion is, just taking little pieces of influence from everyone, so I definitely give credit to that.”
Arguably, the best part of fashion is seeing every person’s unique take on it and what makes them feel the most like themselves. All the pieces put together are a window into the heart of who that person is. For Braithwaite, just one look at her outfit today and you can see she is someone who feels good about the world around her, and you will feel brighter in her presence.
