Not only is she a college student, but she’s also a fashion guru. Along with interning for the site College Fashionista, UMass Amherst sophomore Chelsea Lynn is the creator of the blog TrendyChelsea, which she updates every Tuesday and Friday. I recently sat down with the fashionista to find out how it all began and to seek advice for looking chic on a college budget.
HC: When and how did TrendyChelsea all begin?
CL: My senior year of high school a friend of mine started a blog, which inspired me to start my own.
HC: What is most essential for shopping on a budget, particularly a college student budget?
CL: Don’t be scared to buy pieces you think are going out of style. Also, save your money to buy pieces you know you will get a lot of use out of. I have this one leather jacket I spent a lot of money on, but I wear it throughout the spring and fall all the time.
HC: How would you describe your personal style?
CL: All over the place. My mom always says I can’t commit to a style. One day I’m in a country outfit, the next preppy or grunge. I can’t commit. But who says you have to commit? If I wake up tomorrow feeling like a hipster, then that’s what’s going to happen.
HC: Where do you tend to buy your clothes, and why?
CL: H&M and Forever 21 because they are both affordable, which is essential when you are in your twenties. They both have a wide range of styles for pieces that could be dressed up or down.
HC: Who is your style icon?
CL: Gotta do it… Kylie Jenner. I like her sleek style. Some of her staple pieces are very chic and sophisticated. I like the textures she uses, such as suede and denim, which I think are great trends. Really the Kardashians in general, because love them or hate them, you can mesh their whole style.
HC: You always look so put together and you’re a college student! Any fashion advice for college students who struggle to make it out of bed in the morning?
CL: To be honest, I feel like every morning I wake up just wanting to wear sweats. Go out with an attitude that says “I don’t know who I’m going to meet today.” You might run into someone you want to do business with! Looking your best will help you feel your best.
HC: What are some pieces you can’t live without?
CL: High-waisted anything and white sneakers, because I think they look so fresh.
HC: What fashion item do you think is underrated?
CL: Overalls. Too often people don’t consider them to be “classy” enough, but the amazing thing about overalls is you can dress them up or down. For example, you can pair them with heels and a blazer and instantly have a chic look.
HC: What’s the biggest tip you have for anyone wanting to start a fashion blog?
CL: Just go for it. Don’t worry about it looking amazing. I read a quote recently: “A year from now you’re gonna wish you started what you could start today.” It may not look perfect at first, but you have to start somewhere to improve. Start to form your brand, and things will come.
Be sure to look up Chelsea’s blog, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest trends and fashion advice.
All photos courtesy of Chelsea Lynn.