Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga—for those who do not know fashion, these are a few designers that Eric Nersisyan, GCC’s very own Mr. Fashionista, lists as his favorite.

As a student of fashion merchandising, style is his language. He talks, walks, and breathes the stylish trends of the day. From his flattering round-frame sunglasses to his Tom Sperry loafers, he is a very fashion-forward kind of guy.

“Fashion is a way to express yourself,” Nersisyan said. “It’s the easiest way to be unique.”

Nersisyan advises men who have trouble with their style or cannot afford the latest trends to shop at Forever 21 or H&M, while using the clothes on the mannequins as guides.

For those who are conscious of the forever-changing world of trends, style is always first. Expression through clothing can be found in all parts of the world. New trends are created, re-created, recycled and inspired every single day. In the upcoming fashion week from March 9-15, the recurring trend is black.

Nersisyan advises that black is the color to choose when it comes to buying a key article for your closet.

“Glendale is not the most fashion-conscious community,” Nersisyan said.

He thinks shoppers should stay clear of thrift shops, but try consignment shops instead, to look for the cheap clothes and the latest trends. Nersisyan tries to be high-fashion on a budget. He said online shopping is the key to success.

“You must follow your own trends to succeed in the industry, an outfit has to be a representation of yourself,” said Nersisyan. “It expresses personality and you must have accessories, whether it’s a watch, a necklace or a bracelet.”

Nancy Recinos, a fashion-conscious sophomore at GCC, said it is a form of art that allows people to express themselves through clothing. Recinos doesn’t like to categorize herself under one type of style. She mixes it up, one day wearing colorful, feminine florals, and another day wearing a tough, rock band T-shirts.

In her opinion one of the most recognizable current trends are long, over-sized sweaters, jean jackets, scarves, tights, boots and converse.

“Fashion on campus is different and unique because everyone expresses themselves differently,” said Recinos.

Her advice to people that don’t know about fashion is to look at magazines they offer great style combination examples and tips on where to shop.

“I think brands are too cliche when people only buy the brand for the style,” said Recinos.

Unlike Nersisyan, Recinos said thrift stores are great places to shop because they are affordable and allow trendy clothes to be recycled.