Quad Style: Shereen Al-Sawwaf
Meet Shereen! She’s a fourth year, (former) pre-med, Global Studies major. On campus, she’s involved in Alpha Omicron Pi and GlobeMed. Off campus, she works at a brand strategy firm and helps produce a podcast called The Big Jump. She loves contemporary art, traveling, Barry’s Bootcamp, and trying new restaurants!
I’m wearing a combination of Aritzia, Zara, and Vince. Both tops are from Aritzia as are the black pants. The plaid skirt is from Zara, and the shoes are Vince.
How would you describe your personal style?
My style is definitely modern, though I wouldn’t venture to call it minimalist. I love clean lines, simple colors, and modern cuts with some unique touches here and there. I tend to be very picky when I shop for myself and have made a conscious effort over the years to buy fewer, higher quality pieces rather than get caught up in trends. In the long run, it’s better for my wallet and the environment. It’s also allowed me to create a more cohesive closet over the years as well. I like the idea of curating a closet rather than just shopping.
Why is fashion important to you?
Fashion is the simultaneous expression of individuality and collective effervescence. It’s someone’s opportunity to express her unique self in the context of an increasingly connected world where trends are homogenous. I use fashion as a means of creating my own expression of what I see, appreciate, and admire around me. But most importantly, I value fashion’s ability to empower, inspire, and innovate.
Do you have any fashion regrets?
My middle school years, for sure. Sad to admit I’ve owned more than one Juicy Couture terry tracksuit and a few too many Abercrombie sweat sets.
Where do you like to shop?
Vince, Theory, Rag & Bone, and Aritzia. Lately, I’ve fallen in love with Reformation. Their cuts are all so flattering.
Where do you find style inspiration?
Anywhere and everywhere. From combing through the latest collections to just walking down the street, I'm influenced by everything I’m exposed to. My phone is littered with random screenshots and photos that I often scroll through for ideas and inspiration.
What is your relationship to fashion? Has it changed over time?
I’ve always had a pretty strong relationship with fashion. As a kid, I was an avid fan of the New York Times and often poured over the Style section, learning about Fashion Week, different designers, and the style world. My mom would always dress me in the most outrageous outfits and encourage my creativity. My relationship to fashion has only grown stronger through the years as I’ve developed my own strong sense of style, an understanding of the importance of presenting yourself well, and the opportunity to see how fashion has grown to reflect larger trends in day-to-day society.
All of my jewelry is from my cousins’ jewelry shop in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia called Al Nadera.
All images courtesy of Charlotte Wang.
