For Sophia Chen ‘19, clothes are not only a tool to look more put-together, but also an everyday means to express her personality and her constant longing to go back to sleep. This makes her style choices more comfort-oriented, choosing simple and classic looks that allow her to look effortlessly focused and prepared for anything.

“I don’t like wearing things that get in my way, because I’m just already tired and I haven’t had enough sleep,” she said, explaining that her style is also very basic and simplistic. “I like to pair a bunch of things together, but usually they’re not actually that fancy on their own. I like to mix and match things so I can pair them with whatever I want so I don’t have to think about it in the morning.” Although she aims to consistently take the easy route when it comes to dressing herself, she still admires Youtube stars like Evelina Barry and Jenn Im, who have classic, chic and layered looks. However, she also looks to various social medias to find style inspiration. “I can just go on Pinterest and spend two hours procrastinating, pinning random things.”

Although she understands the need to feel comfortable, Chen continues to have severe issues understanding the recent Birkenstocks and socks trend. “That’s very confusing to me,” she said, adding that the wearers of this style “need to rethink something.”

In addition to fashion, another method of self-expression is her art, which she began to explore as a hobby in seventh grade. Chen says art has taught her a lot about how to effectively pick out outfits. “My art and fashion do really come together because I literally have paint all over every single piece of clothing that I own,” she said. “I incorporate my art into my fashion, when I’m putting together outfits and shopping, I like different textures and colors and … I definitely have a better understanding of colors from art, like complimentary colors and cools and warms.

According to Chen’s close friend, Anjali Huynh ‘19, Chen’s style reflects her personality perfectly. “Her wardrobe consists of an appealing mix of comfort and class, which in turn, represents opposite sides of her character as a person: somewhat relaxed, yet sophisticated at the same time.” Even if they are just staying home, Huynh added, Chen looks better than anyone else, with a sense of maturity that is hard to find amongst mentally exhausted high school students.

The perception that Chen is stylish is not uncommon: many others have recognized her choices of more mature and sophisticated garments.

“I’ve heard people tell me that they describe my style as slightly more formal and dressed up than other people,” Chen said, a statement proven by her regular garment choices, such as short-heeled booties, gold jewelry, high-waisted jeans, and “literally anything with stripes, because I literally wear stripes every other day.”

Although lack of sleep and paint stains can put a small damper on her creative endeavors through fashion, Chen does not let anything prevent her from being comfortable, fabulous and classy. “I like being put-together without sacrificing my comfort or being overly laid-back and half asleep.”

Photo Gallery of Sophia Chen ’19:

Gallery • 9 Photos