Sidewalk Style: Sloppy Meets Stylish

Janaina Isaac, 23
Student, Howard University
Employee at Steve Madden in Georgetown

What she’s wearing:
Steven by Steve Madden boots; Urban Outfitters hoodie, bracelet, and faux-leather tights; and H&M jacket.

So how’s the quality, really, at Steve Madden?
“Our boots and pumps are great. The sandals don’t hold up as well, unless you get the Steven by Steve Madden ones. The soles are much more sturdy.”

Tell me about your style.
“Simple. Kinda grudgy . . . like sloppy-meets-street. I like a lot of black and very few silver accessories. You can tell I’m from New York.”

What’s on your spring wish list?
“From Steve Madden, the taupe patent pumps (Nicolett). I’d wear them with a plaid top and skinny jeans. I also want something in snakeskin. Maybe a clutch or belt—in black or gray, of course.”

You transferred to Howard from the Fashion Institute of Technology. How do the two compare in terms of student dress?
“People are really casual at FIT. I know, its surprising, but there’s just more of a business focus at FIT. People are there to work and get contacts. I had to leave because it was just too expensive. At Howard, there are a good number of people who will buy the hottest stuff instead of lunch.”

What do you want to do when you graduate?
“I want to do fashion styling for a magazine. Essence used to have a magazine called Suede that was great, but it folded.”

Rachel says:
There’s something unstudied but put together about Janaina’s weekend look. I love the toughness of her leggings and boots paired with the slouchy, knit hoodie and cropped-sleeve jacket, all topped off with a very cool silver cuff with a black stone in the center. I do love black and wear it to a fault. This spring, I’m going to try more bold color.