Music Inspires Student's Style

By SARAH KELLY

It’s hard to pull off an edgy look without being mistaken for Sid Vicious from a distance. Never a good thing.

This week’s profile, sophomore Cheryl Beckwith, exudes classic elegance while also staying true to her own personal style: heavily influenced by both the 90s grunge scene and the British punk era of the 70s.

With an ash-blonde pixie-cut, dramatic eye makeup and a Sex Pistols Tee, Beckwith stands out as she sits on the back steps of Combs Hall, waiting for her next class to start.

Her black high-waisted skirt is from American Apparel, her shear tights are from CVS and her neutral tone wedge ankle boots are from Target.

She balances out these feminine pieces in subdued colors with her attention-grabbing vintage tee, that she stol from her brother.

Music is an important wardrobe influence for the historic preservation major, who hails from Richmond.

Some of her favorites include rock ‘n’ roll pioneer Buddy Holly, The Smiths and Lana Del Rey who recently released the singles “Video Games” and “Born to Die”.

The music world is more apt to take risks in fashion than most. Whether it stems from a larger-than-life stage persona, i.e., Lady Gaga, or references to style from past decades like Adele’s 1960s-inspired look, a nod to the soul influences present in her own music. An admirable trait in anyones fashion sense is a willingness to step out of his or her own comfort zone and take chances with unconventional pieces.

Unfortunately, this also means taking the risk of looking like a complete twat. Case in point: Fergie’s transparent orange lace Versace gown at this year’s Grammy’s. In the world of fashion, some of the most unusually beautiful pieces debut, and stay, on the runway.

Beckwith is upfront about her views on individuality in style.

“I think it’s important not to worry a lot about what other people tell you,” she said. “I’ve had a lot of people tell me I dress like an idiot, and I just do whatever I want anyway. It’s way more fun that way.”

Beckwith’s look exemplifies the perfect balance between classic pieces and one or two eye-catching elements that allow for self-expression. As she leaves to make it to her class in time, she walks through the door with all the poise of a runway model and all the attitude of, say, Sid Vicious.

Image courtesy of Sarah Kelly/Bullet