December Fashion Spotlight

Ari Waters

(she/him)

According to Ari Waters, 10, fashion is an expression of the self. It’s a way to show people who you are, or even make a political statement. 

“It’s a way of, like, having your voice heard, you know. You don’t even have to say anything; people just see you…” Ari said.

Fittingly, he takes inspiration from punk rock culture, clad in a leather jacket and platform combat boots. Ari’s black jeans feature patches and bleach-dye stripes, both of which were done by her. No stranger to making her own changes, Ari frequently alters thrifted items like this, in an effort to make them more unique and creative. 

Not taking himself too seriously, Ari often goes for clown makeup, a fun addition to the overall edginess of his look. 

With other cultural influences such as the band Rob Zombie and film The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Ari’s style is a well-rounded embodiment of the past several decades of alternative culture. 

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Gray Stakely

(they/them)

For Gray Stakley, 10 fashion helps dull the boredom of life. 

“It takes a bit of the mundaneness out of things,” Gray said. 

They like to pull style inspiration from mod-era culture, with bright patterns and fun silhouettes. With other inspiration in subcultures of the 70s and 80s, Gray goes for outfits that are different and eye-catching. 

Clad in mostly red flannel print, Gray’s monochrome outfit utilizes different shades of red with their gloves and hat. A flash of paisley print contrasts starkly against the rest of the outfit, a pattern-clashing statement piece. 

Gray shops mostly at second hand stores, but also sometimes buys at places like 5 Below, where you can find interesting things for cheap. 

“I don’t really care about what other people think,” they said.

photos by mason hanks