Fashion is about more than just clothes to freshmen Aaron Greene and RJ Miller. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be difficult, especially in a new environment, but it is no challenge for these two. It's no wonder the two roommates were "Best Dressed" in high school, as they find inspiration from diverse aspects, including family members, fashion magazines and the people that surround them on a daily basis. The relaxed personalities of Greene and Miller are reflected in their style, as they include unique adornments ranging from shoes to watches to button-ups, accenting styles that cannot be duplicated.
Q: describe your style in one word.
Aaron Greene: Finesse
RJ Miller: Unique
Q: what inspires you?
Aaron Greene: My family. My mom, dad and brother are all-fashionable and have always inspired me to dress my best. Every time I go out, I try to look presentable. My dad encouraged me to always to look my best every time I step out.
RJ Miller: I like to set an example and have a standard for myself.
Q: where do you shop?
Aaron Greene: I do a lot of vintage shopping.
RJ Miller: Urban Outfitters is one major place I like to shop.
Q: what is your general opinion on style at the University of South Carolina campus?
Aaron Greene: There's hardly any diversity as far as fashion is concerned. Everyone seems to be fitting to the status quo
RJ Miller: I feel like what everyone is wearing on campus is what everyone is used to.
Q: what is your favorite piece of clothing?
Aaron Greene: The Beatles used to wear English Laundry. I love artists that aren't afraid of trying something different. Musicians correlate to fashion that way. I'm inspired by people like Jimi Hendrix. They all went out on a limb for what they loved.
RJ Miller: I just bought Olympic Sevens this summer. They are my favorite thing I own. And I think it is cool that Michael Jordan wore them in the 1992 Olympics.
Q: why is it important for you to express yourself through what you wear?
Aaron Greene: I think dressing a certain way shows how you feel. I present myself. People express their feelings through different things. Fashion is that outlet for me.
RJ Miller: It definitely is a way to express yourself, and it can be inspirational for others. People see you around and it leaves an impact
Q: what's advice would you give to other students seeking to express themselves through fashion?
Aaron Greene: Be who you are. Even if no one else is brave enough to, you still can.
RJ Miller: Look through fashion magazines to find what you want to wear. You don't just have to buy it because everyone else is.
Q: is there anything you'd like to add?
Aaron Greene: I encourage people to not be afraid of who they are. Fashion is more than just clothes. It's how you carry yourself. Confidence is a huge part of it. Fashion illustrates that.
RJ Miller: One thing is that I feel like fashion/ "swag" is not a one-day thing. It is a lifestyle that you have to live.