Quad Style: Jessica Lu
Hi! My name is Jessica Lu. I'm a fourth-year Econ major at UChicago and am part of campusCATALYST, AOII, and Women in Business. My hobbies include taking millenial-targeted fitness classes, talking about how I studied abroad in Paris, and hanging out in Pret.
How would you describe your personal style?
The immediate reaction I want from people is, “Oh, I don’t think I’ve seen that before.” – hopefully in a good way, of course – whether that’s accomplished by asymmetric necklines, mixing of textures, complex layering, interesting prints or irregular shapes. While there are many mainstream brands that I buy, I like to buy pieces that don’t necessarily scream that brand (which can be hard to do with places like Brandy Melville). I also prefer to wear a variety of different outfits rather than recycle through staples; I think it’s worth the convenience trade-off to shop at consignment or thrift stores to make this goal affordable.
What is your go-to outfit?
In the cold: My dad’s Oscar de la Renta cardigan, a slightly cropped top, leggings, heel boots from a boutique in Paris
In the warm: A sundress from the Melrose Trading Post, black and white heel Tory Burch sandals, Urban Outfitters sunglasses
"Later in life, I think the goal is to be the Rachel Zane (Meghan Markle) of my office and the Rachel Green (Jennifer Anniston) of my Friends."
Who is your biggest style inspiration?
My sister Jenny (a sophomore at Georgetown) – who also happens to run a fashion blog and serves as an inspiration to tens of thousands of other people
Where do you like to shop?
Realistically, most often: Boutiques in Venice, Santa Monica, West Hollywood; Urban Outfitters; Zara; ASOs… my sister’s closet
Ideally, instead of my in imaginary budget: Are You Am I, Planet Blue, LF, All Saints
What is your relationship to fashion? Has it changed over time?
Fashion always states something about the wearer’s identity whether intentionally or not. Over the years, I’ve always wanted to be in control of that statement even as the message changes. Right now, through my hectic college life, I try to use my clothing as a façade to express that my life is put-together (rather than perhaps being the only element of my life that is). Later in life, I think the goal is to be the Rachel Zane (Meghan Markle) of my office and the Rachel Green (Jennifer Anniston) of my Friends.
Why is fashion important to you?
Fashion is important to me because as someone who otherwise has no artistic talent it’s a convenient way to express myself. Plus it’s always fun to see what other people are wearing!
Outfit A: Dress is from a boutique on Main St. in Santa Monica, bralette is from Urban Outfitters, shoes are from ASOs.
Outfit B: Shirt is from Brandy Melville, jeans are originally from GAP but were bought at a thrift store in Los Angeles.
Images courtesy of Sima Shah.
