In a society where celebrities and designers are constantly pulling inspiration from the past, who deserves the ultimate title of an icon? Celebrities are noticed for their risks and out-of-the-box attitudes (think Anna Dello Russo), while others are praised for their minimalism (think Tilda Swinton). How the celebrity, the model, the designer, or the trend makes a mark in fashion history can dictate its position as an icon. This week, the Campus Style team asked students what they think is iconic.
Style tip of the week: Carry a travel-sized Tide-to-Go stain remover stick in your bag to save yourself from an embarrassing coffee stain during this stressful pre-exam season.
Kate, second-year master’s in journalism
Boots: Thrifted
T-shirt: Thrifted
Blouse: Grandma’s
Coat: Urban Outfitters
Pants: American Apparel
Scarf: Gift
Who do you consider iconic in fashion?
I love Elin Kling. She’s always so well put together, clean, Swedish — I like that.
Is it too easy to become a fashion icon these days?
I don’t know if it’s bad that it’s easy, it’s democratizing in a way. You can have a blog and wear whatever you want, but I think there’s a fine line. If someone puts thought into what they wear then yes, but if they’re wearing crazy things just for the sake of it then it’s probably not the best thing.
Nabila, second-year aerospace engineering
Skinny jeans: American Apparel
Shirt: Sirens
Boots: Payless
Scarf: From Kuwait
What do you consider iconic in fashion?
In terms of trends I really love the thing with wearing skinny jeans with something loose or flowy on top, or colour blocking.
Does society choose fashion icons too easily?
I guess society depends on the media. Whatever the media portrays, that’s what we’re going to look to.
Michelle, fourth-year interactive multimedia and design
Top: Suzy Shier
Pants: H&M
Boots: Yellow Shoes
Earrings: Forever 21
What defines a fashion icon?A mix of trends and knowledge in design – not necessarily fashion design but even graphic design or architectural design. If you can incorporate that with your personality then I think that’s what it starts with.
Who do you consider iconic?
My first thought is Lady Gaga — she’s very avant-garde and does things that no one else does, it’s very different.
Keep it chic with Michel Ghanem on Twitter for more Campus Style, @wtfmichel.
