Quad Style: Storm Taft
My name is Storm Taft. I’m a 2nd year Economics & Cinema and Media Studies Double Major. I’m also the Marketing Director for MODA. I’ve lived in Chicago my entire life, coming from UChicago Laboratory Schools for High School (…I know right). If you think you’ve seen me around somewhere, it was probably at the Reg. And…the question that’s on everyones’ mind… yes, my real name is Storm and, yes, my name is Storm, because my dad is a weatherman. *cue the puns*
Shirt: Topman / Sweater: Adidas (Thrifted) / Pants: AG Jeans
How would you describe your style?
For me it’s hard to define my style. Every time I think I can categorize it, my style changes. I find that fashion often reflects your sense of self at any given moment; fashion is the one expression of art that no one can escape, no matter how indifferent you feel about it. Every morning you wake up and make a conscious decision of what to put on your body and how you want the world to see you. With that being said, I think the only way I could describe my style is as a constant exploration of the self.
Where do you like to shop?
I find that trendy men’s clothing is often hard to find, with most affordable but higher quality fashion being largely traditional. With that, I almost always thrift, with the exceptions of Topman, Urban Outfitters and the occasional J-Crew. Thrifting is definitely my shop of choice, when it comes to fashion, because it allows you to experiment with your style without breaking your bank. Remember the last time that you saw a shirt in a department store that you wanted to buy, but couldn’t bring yourself to, because you weren’t sure if you would get the use out of it, given its price. With thrifting, you’re allowed to wear things that you normally would not purchase. Overall, thrifting has allowed my style to grow. Also, it’s a super fun way to get off campus with some friends and explore the city!
“I think that the purest instances of inspiration come in the most unexpected moments and in the most unexpected forms.”
Shirt: Hard Rock Café Shirt (Thrifted) / Coat: I think it has something to do with a hockey team.. (Thrifted) / Pants: AG Jeans
Where do you get inspiration for your style?
I think that the purest instances of inspiration come in the most unexpected moments and in the most unexpected forms. Thus, I find that most inspirations that become projected onto my style come from nonchalant observations in my daily life. Whether it’s a good song I hear in a coffee shop, a beautiful bed of flowers I see on my walk to class, or a striking shot in a film I watch for class, I’m continually looking for inspirations. Finding something that’s so beautiful that it makes you stop and observe is one of the best aspects of life.
Any fashion regrets?
Honestly, I don’t think there is anything that I would sincerely regret. I’m sure I’ll look back on the exact outfit I’m wearing right now at some point in my life with confusion. I’ve definitely had some major style fumbles, but I think that without these mistakes, my style wouldn’t have be able to grow.
“Thrifting is definitely my shop of choice, when it comes to fashion, because it allows you to experiment with your style without breaking your bank. ”
Shirt: American Apparel / Shorts: American Apparel / Shoes: Timberland Boots / Note that I only bought American Apparel after their closing sale- that stuff was way overpriced.
What is your relationship with fashion?
Has it changed over time? Fashion has become an integral part of who I am in recent years. Throughout most of my life, I wouldn’t think twice about what I put on my body (i.e. I would wear Abercrombie zip-up hoodies over Abercrombie crewneck sweaters…). However, with college being an intense period of transition, I’ve come to look at fashion as a way to express myself, as well as discover myself. With thinking about what I want to wear as an extension of how I want others to perceive me, fashion has made me more conscious of who I am, who I want to be and who I’m trying to be.
All images courtesy of Yamini Nambimadom
