Vogue embarked on a fascinating journey to distill the essence of American style as the nation approaches its semiquincentennial. Acknowledging the vast diversity across the 50 states and 14 territories, the publication enlisted fashion writer Biz Sherbert, known for her insights into youth fashion trends, to spearhead this exploration. Her mission was to identify 50 young individuals who, through their distinctive fashion choices, could represent the multifaceted landscape of modern American dressing. These chosen trendsetters, ranging in age from 18 to 30, were asked to share their personal style statements, inspirations, and most cherished wardrobe items. This initiative offers a compelling glimpse into how young Americans are shaping fashion today, reflecting influences from digital platforms like Pinterest, iconic films and television series, cherished family heirlooms, and renowned artists and designers.
Spotlight on Emerging American Style Icons
In a compelling exploration of contemporary American fashion, Vogue collaborated with fashion expert Biz Sherbert to identify fifty influential young individuals, aged 18 to 30, whose unique styles define the current fashion landscape. From this diverse group, two individuals were personally interviewed by Sherbert: Chelsi Banks, a 19-year-old student from Birmingham, Alabama, and Owen Peters, also 19, from Shakopee, Minnesota.
Chelsi Banks, describing her personal style as 'charmingly twee' and Alabama's fashion as 'colorful athleisure,' draws inspiration from 2000s and early 2010s fashion magazines, runway shows, films like 'Emma' and 'Peppermint Soda,' and her mother's old photographs. Her most treasured possession is a Miu Miu spring 2008 purple dress, acquired for just $30, which she loves to layer with a ruffled top, emulating its runway styling.
Owen Peters, with a style he defines as 'prep and glamour,' notes Minnesota's state style as 'forgetting a coat.' His inspirations are broad, ranging from the internet, Jackie O., and his friends, to designers like Marc Jacobs and figures like Gene Kelly, his grandmother, and even frat bros and Addison Rae. His favorite item is a pair of oversized Nike basketball shorts that he feels make him look 'cool.'
Further afield, Isaiah Collins, a 23-year-old creator and welder from Philadelphia, embodies a style that is 'personable, fly, true,' contrasting with Pennsylvania's 'trendy, beautiful, and bold' fashion scene. His Prada Brixxen boots, which he meticulously cares for, are his most beloved item, symbolizing his philosophy of treating garments with respect and showcasing his eye for customizable details.
Sabelle Mebane, a 22-year-old student from Dallas, Texas, finds her style to be 'timeless, sophisticated, thoughtful.' She draws heavily from costume design history, including ballet traditions and the works of Edith Head, and iconic figures like Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn, with Dior’s New Look as a significant influence on her self-expression.
From Philadelphia, Varvara “Bobby” Diakonenkova, 23, a fashion designer and stylist, whose personal style is inspired by her family’s designer wardrobe and observations from subway commutes. Her favorite items include a 'huge' skunk fur trapper hat and a Valentino two-piece suit with Chiné à la branche flowers.
Kaila Thomas, a 26-year-old executive assistant in Boston, Massachusetts, describes her style as 'fluid, detailed, textured.' She cherishes a pair of green and yellow T-strap Mary Jane shoes, bought in Italy, for their artisanal quality and their ability to inject color or nuance into her ensembles.
Orlande Mensah, 25, an internship program assistant in Newburgh, New York, expresses her style as 'innovative, colorful, sophisticated.' Her cherished rainbow plaid Forever21 skirt, a childhood gift from her mother, stands out as a versatile and endlessly stylable piece.
Asha Aden, 24, a unit coordinator from Columbus, Ohio, embraces a 'colorful' personal style, inspired by the practicality and movement advocated by Katharine Hepburn and her mother. Her oldest and most beloved item is a 1970s blue cotton babydoll dress, discovered at a yard sale, which evokes a sense of freedom.
Nicole Quinonez-Frias, 24, a sales clerk from Fontana, California, finds her style inspiration within her own wardrobe, driven by a promise to only buy clothes she loves. Her favorite pieces are a 1960s royal blue jacquard Lorrie Deb gown and a 1950s Mam’selle brown cocktail dress, both making her feel 'dazzling and elegant.'
Samantha Burnett, 23, from Fayetteville, Arkansas, characterizes her style as 'romantic, vintage, girly,' contrasting with her state's 'minimal, earthy, Western' aesthetic. A bullet cartridge belt, found at a local vintage market, is her favorite item, admired for its 'kitsch and drama.'
Anjulina Chukwu, 19, a student in New York, New York, draws inspiration from diverse sources including New York City itself, books, movies, art, and even food. She playfully refuses to pick a favorite item, comparing it to choosing an ice cream flavor, but hints at a beloved masquerade mask.
Jerrius Williams, 19, a student from Cincinnati, Ohio, is inspired by 90s and early 2000s TV shows like 'Clueless' and 'Boy Meets World.' His denim fur coat from Supermade is his favorite for its versatility and warmth.
Jazmyn Ewing, 29, a media strategist from Chicago, Illinois, embraces a 'structured, feminine, effortless' style. She finds inspiration in diverse environments and through 'tweaking' current trends to suit her personal flair. Her father's Penguins jersey is her most cherished item, a sentimental piece that connects her to him.
Lucy Hannah, 20, a social media marketing manager in Fort Collins, Colorado, describes her style as 'clean, interesting, easy.' She seeks inspiration from authentic people she observes in daily life rather than influencers, and enjoys the nuances of interiors, food, and nature.
Bunny Darling, 28, a writer from Richmond, Virginia, proudly describes her style as a 'red-hot sexpot,' contrasting it with Virginia's 'quarter-zip consultants.' Her inspirations are eclectic, ranging from Ariana Papademetropoulos paintings to Lana Del Rey's poetry.
Julie Kim, 26, a painter and copywriter from Cranford, New Jersey, finds her style to be 'inquisitive, fun, classic.' She is inspired by stylish old people in NYC, 20th-century paintings, friends, online shopping platforms, and vintage photos. Her metallic charcoal grey Tahari flats, a rediscovery from her middle-school shoe collection, are her favorite.
Lizzie Cassidy, 28, a librarian in Chicago, Illinois, defines her style as 'instinctive, experiential, spunky.' Her inspiration comes from diverse sources, making her style 'utilitarian, layered, proud.'
Sada Haibe, 25, a data entry clerk from Columbus, Ohio, views her personal style as 'colorful.' She finds purpose in her style, valuing comfort and mobility. Her 1970s blue cotton babydoll dress, a yard sale find, is her favorite, embodying freedom and flow.
Valentine Geze, 27, a graduate student in Boston, Massachusetts, describes her state's style as 'everything, everywhere, all at once.' She cherishes a cropped handknit Norwegian sweater, adorned with buttons, which serves as a unique icebreaker.
Adriana Román, 23, a gallery assistant from Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, boasts a 'layered, eclectic, textured' style, inspired by queer artists and drag queens. She emphasizes resourcefulness and finding new ways to style existing items. Her favorite pieces are those that allow for layering and unique silhouettes.
Cameran Ford, 22, a student from Orange, California, with a style that is 'slouch, chic, play,' describes her state's fashion as 'iPhone, convenience, influence.' Her favorite item is a pair of jeans, originally belonging to a high school boyfriend, which she transformed to reclaim her self-worth after a difficult relationship.
Skylar Jaundoo, 29, a store director in Los Angeles, California, embodies a 'refined and discerning' style, amidst her state's 'practical glitzy wonderland.' Her Cecile Tulkens navy brushed-cotton pants are her favorite, making her feel powerful and serving as a conversation starter.
Eva Rutledge, 24, a production coordinator from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has an 'androgynous city pirate' style. Her favorite is a 1960s marching band jacket, valued for its uniqueness and historical narrative.
Cole Felton, 26, a solar outreach coordinator and art studio model from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, describes his style as 'nostalgic, smart (in a vintage way), and intuitive.' He cherishes a 1890s mutton-sleeve bodice, a flea market find, for its versatility and timeless appeal.
Davida Rogers, 29, a graduate student from Rochester, New York, characterizes her style as 'sustainable, sophisticated, fruity.' Her oversized snow leopard faux-fur coat is her favorite, elevating any outfit with its cozy and fabulous charm.
Niah Aleger, 24, a student from New York, New York, experienced a shift in her style from 'flowy, boho-chic, and western' to 'refined' upon moving to New York, influenced by the city's architecture and people. Her cherished suede embroidered coat, a Goodwill find, is a 'forever piece' she plans to pass down.
Charlie Zhao, 28, a software engineer in New York, New York, describes his style as 'Robert Mapplethorpe, '70s, raw.' His favorite item is a pair of vintage Gianni Versace cowboy boots, which make him feel 'liberating' and powerful.
Casper Svhaugg, 19, a student from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, draws inspiration from 90s Helmut Lang, his mother's closet, and wallpaper catalogs. His most treasured item is a Helmut Lang spring 1997 prototype denim jacket, a meaningful gift from his father.
Lily Kenyi, 27, an art director in New York, New York, finds inspiration in 'colors from nature, the color wheel, fashion girlies.' Her bold accessories, especially a beaded vintage bird bag, are her favorite.
Emir Edwards, 23, an artist and designer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, describes his style as 'tailored, militant, and free.' His artistic family background and his mother's style greatly influenced his fashion sense.
Willa Stonecipher, 24, a Ph.D. student in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has an 'eclectic, vivacious, quirky' style, inspired by thrift store finds and the fusion of historical and contemporary aesthetics. Her personal style is an 'ode to the past while looking to the future.'
Henry Haggenmiller, 23, a style and reviews assistant in New York, NY, describes his state's style as 'alive, eccentric, ever-changing.' His favorite item is The Row eel loafers, valued for their sleek silhouette and versatility.
Gabi Evans, 25, a sales associate in Allentown, Pennsylvania, draws inspiration from vintage stores, Poshmark, Jenny Walton, and Audrey Hepburn. Her most recent and favorite purchase is a spring 2001 Prada skirt worn by Carrie in SATC, appreciated for its rich fabric and versatility.
Tracy Pendleton III, 24, a fashion designer and stylist from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, describes her style as 'whimsical, authentic, FUN!' She loves her rainbow fur-trimmed royal blue coat by Trucé L’Officiel, which instills confidence and feels like 'Picasso.'
Grace Gordon, 24, a sweater designer in New York, New York, defines her style as 'beautiful, layered, worn.' Her Zucca boots are her favorite, cherished for their comfort and the 'safety blanket' feeling they provide.
Rylee Dunn, 27, a barista and nonprofit communications coordinator from Bozeman, Montana, describes her style as 'eclectic, delicate, "whimsi-prep."' She finds inspiration in her community of artists and vintage curators, valuing artisanal and unique pieces.
Isabella Gonzales, 21, a model in San Antonio, Texas, with a style that is 'unsure, vintage, and exploring,' received Isabel Marant's Bekett wedges as a beloved 21st birthday gift.
Arjun Rajan, 21, a student in Washington, D.C., was influenced by his upbringing in Virginia, frequenting thrift stores and observing others. His green bomber jacket, bought in Greece, is his favorite for its sleekness and versatility.
Ava Powers, 23, a social media manager from Dunedin, Florida, describes her personal style as 'eclectic cocotte.' She finds inspiration from Japanese eBay sellers, Instagram, and Pinterest. Her green Mirror Palais supermodel dress, though challenging to wear, makes her 'feel like everyone is watching.'
Bryanna Brown, 22, an EMT student from Elizabethtown, Kentucky, views her style as 'whimsical, chic, chaotic.' Her grandmother, and her love for fashion and antiques, have been a significant inspiration. Her well-worn boots are her favorite, symbolizing her non-Southern yet essential connection to them.
Jeune Hagape, 20, a student from Minneapolis, Minnesota, describes her personal style as 'whimsical, cute, frilly.' She finds inspiration in food, makeup packaging, video game posters, and historical eras, aspiring to look like a doll.
Sydney Stokes, 20, a barista, bakery employee, and student in Oakland, California, characterizes her style as 'sporty, hodgepodge, colorful.' Her inspiration comes from 2000s shows like 'Legally Blonde' and 'Lizzie McGuire.'
Priscilla Yael, 24, a fashion archivist and writer in Los Angeles, California, describes her style as 'decadent, subversive, intimate.' Her 2004 Dior Ballet bag, a gift from a fashion mentor, is her favorite, embodying her identity with its romantic and sexy design.
Orlie White, 24, a samples coordinator in Maplewood, New Jersey, has an 'eclectic, eccentric, spunky' style. Her vintage F1 Ferrari racing jacket, found in Mexico City, is her favorite for its unique charm and effortless coolness.
Drew Fishburn, 23, a photographer from Vancouver, Washington, states his state's style as the 'North Face puffer.' His inspiration comes from childhood interests, Ralph Lauren, Hunter S. Thompson, and Brad Pitt. He likes to dress like 'Jack Reacher on a Hawaiian vacation,' with a penchant for D&G and Diesel jeans.
The extensive insights from these young individuals underscore the rich tapestry of American style, shaped by personal histories, geographic locations, pop culture, and a deep appreciation for both vintage and contemporary fashion.
This illuminating survey into the diverse sartorial expressions of young Americans provides a vibrant tableau of contemporary style. It vividly illustrates that American fashion is not a monolith but a dynamic, ever-evolving dialogue between individual creativity and cultural influences. The participants’ reflections on their inspirations—from cinematic heroines to family legacies, from high fashion runways to local thrift store treasures—reveal a profound personal connection to their wardrobes. This journey through the styles of tomorrow's fashion leaders encourages us to recognize and celebrate the unique narratives woven into every outfit, reminding us that true style is an authentic reflection of self and experience. It’s a testament to the idea that fashion, at its heart, is about storytelling and self-discovery, regardless of trends or geographic boundaries.
