Fashion transcends mere clothing; it serves as an expressive outlet for individual identity. While establishing a personal style can be a daunting task, it often presents an enriching opportunity for self-discovery.
For Kousei Takeda-Mays and Connor Chockley, executive board members of UT’s Fashion Society, the journey toward personal style has been both intentional and rewarding. Takeda-Mays, a junior majoring in language and world business with a focus on Japanese and international business, and Chockley, a senior in retail and merchandising management, have embraced this exploration of identity through fashion.
Takeda-Mays found his style blossoming in high school, where he leveraged online fashion marketplaces to discover clothing that resonated with his personal identity. “I bought clothes that resonated with my inherent identity,” he shared. “Over time, I built a cohesive closet—pieces that emulsify into a common theme and work well together.”
Conversely, Chockley’s style evolved through social media exposure, particularly on Instagram. “In a way, it kinda found me,” he noted. “I follow several pages that inspire me, not necessarily for full outfits, but often for individual pieces that catch my eye, like unique jewelry.”
Both students emphasize that self-reflection is crucial to discovering personal style. They recommend utilizing social media as a tool for exploring preferences. Platforms that facilitate mood board creation or outfit inspiration can be invaluable in shaping one’s unique aesthetic.
“For other students, exploring social media can be helpful,” Chockley advised. “Don’t hesitate to try something that doesn’t seem like ‘you’—it might just become part of your identity.”
Thrifting has emerged as a favored method for both students, providing a sustainable avenue for unique clothing finds. “I like thrifting,” Takeda-Mays said. “There’s an element of thrill in not knowing what you’ll discover. There’s always something unique out there.”
Takeda-Mays likened his thrifting experience to a “mystery box”—each visit may yield something unexpected, enhancing the excitement of the search. Thrifting not only encourages risk-taking with vintage styles but also allows individuals to breathe new life into once-loved garments.
Chockley echoed this sentiment, expressing a desire for individuality in his wardrobe. “I dislike wearing something that many others might have access to,” he explained. “I want to be unique, reflecting who I am in my style.”
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