Steven Cojocaru is one of the coolest people in the celebrity fashion industry: he’s been a Style Correspondent for Today and has covered celebrity fashion on Entertainment Tonight. Cojocaru, who also goes by Cojo, is an expert when it comes to what’s hot and what’s not in fashion. Her Campus had the opportunity to talk with Cojo about trends, collegiette™ clothes, and breaking into the industry.
Trends to Wear This Season
Even though we’re not strutting down a runway or red carpet, it’s still imperative be on trend! With so many trends this season, it’s tough to pick out the coolest ones to try. Don’t worry, collegiettes™, Cojo broke it down for us.
“There are two things on the runway that I really like,” says Cojo. “There’s a ladylike mood with dolman sleeves, and blouses; kind of like French chic. And then there’s the crazy, glamorous seventies thing going on. You’re seeing that a lot with faux fur.”
Lucky for us, we’re at the perfect age to wear both of these trends. A ladylike ensemble is perfect for classes, internships, and meetings. The seventies inspired trend, on the other hand, is ideal for a night on the town!
Fur is a fashion must, especially if Cojo deems it trendy. “A key piece is a faux fur vest, especially for a college girl,” says Cojo. “It’s so young, cool, and glamorous at the same time.” If a fur vest is a little too intense for you, Cojo suggests fur accessories or even something with a fur trim.
In addition to fur, we should also show off our animal instincts with python. “This year, it’s all about python,” says Cojo. “I would say get yourself a great faux python bag. It should be current. Are you going to wear a python jumpsuit head to toe? I wouldn’t recommend it, but just add an element of python.”
The best thing about these trends is that they are extremely accessible: you can find pieces at major department stores, thrift shops, and even discounted stores.
Classics to Invest In
Although collegiette™ fashion is all about chic and inexpensive items, we should consider purchasing some investment pieces.
“I think it’s really important to have a nice statement jacket or a black blazer,” says Cojo. “You can wear it to an interview or a party.” He’s right: a blazer is so timeless and you can wear it during multiple seasons! After all, the most important thing to consider when investing in an item is versatility.
Tips on Being a Chic Collegiette™
As fabulous collegiettes™, we have the power to express ourselves through fashion. But, with both a limited budget and closet space, how can we be super stylish, school appropriate, and savvy spenders?
- Don’t overdo it: “I think the biggest fashion faux pas is when you’re doing too much at once: just simplify it!” says Cojo. The simpler the outfit, the more chic it will be! Makes sense, right?
- Shop at stores like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls: “I think they’re phenomenal places to shop at because their designer clothes are accessible to any girl on a budget,” says Cojo. “I’m a really big believe in designer clothes and designer labels. I like labels that I can trust because to me, that says quality.” If you’re not close to a TJ Maxx or Marshalls, Cojo suggests shopping online.
- The chic and comfortable collegiette ™: Without a doubt, the college sweat suit is one of the biggest fashion offenders on campus. Some people, however, love the comfort that a sweat suit brings. So how can we dress up our lecture outfits without sacrificing our comfort? According to Cojo, leggings are both versatile and cozy. “A legging can take you a long way,” says Cojo.
How to Break Into the Industry
For some of us, it’s our dream to have Cojo’s job. Cojo has advice for breaking into the industry. And listen up, collegiettes™, this advice applies to everyone. Like many others, Cojo believes that experience will take you far. “What a lot of people don’t realize is that you got to roll up your sleeves and really work,” says Cojo. “Volunteering and interning is the road to so many incredible things. It gives you a window, an experience, and also a feel for the dynamic.” With so many people interested in internships, it’s imperative to stand out. But how do we do it? “Good old-fashioned hard work and passion will get you far if you really believe in it,” says Cojo.
Can’t get enough of Cojo? Pick up copies of his two books: Red Carpet Diaries: Confessions of a Glamour Boy and Glamour, Interrupted.