After much consideration, I’ve decided to base my written story piece on New York street-style, current fashion trends and how fashion statements come in and out of style.

Fashion is one of my favorite aspects of life and something I’ve always cared deeply for; In fact, one of the most prominent reasons why I was drawn to New York City from a very young age was because of the bold, elegant and diverse street style one encounters in their everyday life here. I, myself, am a fashion major at Marymount and I thought this assignment would serve as a beautiful combination between my two passions: storytelling and fashion!

After living in NYC for over a month now (and on top of many trips to the city throughout my youth), I’ve concluded that I am most drawn to the street style and fashion found in SOHO. I’ve acknowledged that every area of Manhattan has its own style; for example, where I live in the Upper East Side, it’s common to see rich men and women sporting designer brands (and a miniature puppy by their side), whereas Brooklyn, for example, has more of hipster/thrifty feel to it. Considering all of this, I’ve theorized that SOHO has a perfect mixture of all styles imaginable: hipster, high-class, sporty, grunge, bohemian… they have it all! With NYU in the neighborhood, SOHO has tons of trendsetters and a young crowd of people fresh to the fashion industry. My goal is to visit on a regular day so I can capture the most authenticity I can.

I will be interviewing Shelby Heard, a young sales representative for Gooten. Her job is to help promote startup fashion brands to get those small companies on their feet. Aside from her many talents, Shelby has lived in the SOHO area for two years now and is very knowledgeable with the trends there. I know she will be the perfect fit.

I know this project will be a wonderful opportunity for me to learn more about diverse fashion trends I’m not quite up to speed on; I tend to obsess over my favorite looks and brands without educating myself on the rest of the world of fashion. My hope is that my readers are able to expand their views and perceptions as well!

Here are my 10 interview questions for Ms. Heard:

1. What are some of the biggest trends in fashion you’ve noticed lately/what have you seen a lot of on the streets?
2. What current trends have you been loving, and why?
3. What current trends can you not stand, and why?
4. Have you ever come across a look/outfit on the streets of SOHO that you’ll never forget? If so, describe it.
5. What specific designers blew you away this year at New York Fashion week? What was it about their pieces?
6. Who do you think the biggest influencers of trends are?
7. How quickly would you say trends come/go?
8. Why do you think so many people are willing to spend so much money on designer clothing?
9. What does “fashion” mean in your own words?
10. Are there any limits to what is considered “fashion”? If so, where’s the line?