BANGERZ
Featured Closet: Carley Chastain
How do I even begin to describe Carley Chastain’s style? Whenever I think I have finally found the words to accurately describe it, her style completely transforms, and out comes something even cooler than before. Such an evolution mirrors that of Miley Cyrus, who is, of no surprise, a major fashion inspiration of Carley’s. We discussed the icon over Zoom while trying to get to the root of Carley’s rare style.
Plastic Hearts, in my opinion, is the best Miley album to this date. And with the new album came, once again, a new Miley. Although we both agreed that her new persona, defined by the mullet and punk-rock look, seems her most authentic, Carley still is most inspired by Miley’s Bangerz era. She explains, “I love that era because Miley wore whatever the f*ck she wanted. She [was] unapologetically her, which is what I strive to be.” And strive she does. Carley embraces fashion not as a hobby, but rather a lifestyle she incorporates into her Fashion Design studies at the University of Cincinnati. Make sure you write down her name since she will be famous one day (and hopefully will bring me with her).
Besides Miley, Carley’s list of best-dressed celebrities includes Barbie Ferreira, Jaden Smith, and Zoe Kravitz. All embrace the style, layering, and vibe she looks for when choosing an outfit. When getting dressed in the morning, Carley finds herself trying to find “the piece of clothing I think stands out for whatever scenario I’m about to go into.” So, to follow Carley’s advice, start with the statement piece, and base the rest of the look off of that. Her favorite funky pieces in her closet include the 90s denim jacket pictured in the shoot and a 1920s inspired shawl (hand-beaded, of course). How does she find these statement garments? Let’s just say she spends a lot of sweaty hours rummaging through vintage and thrift stores to find the perfect pieces. Every month, she goes to Pixel 19 in Cincinnati to find herself another breakthrough look, which will define her aesthetic for the time following.
When not at thrift stores, you can find Carley shopping at Urban Outfitters or Zara. Both offer an easier method to find trendy clothes, especially ones that are work appropriate. Unfortunately, none seem to carry her favorite designers: Moschino, Viktor&Rolf, or Giambattista Valli. A girl is allowed to dream, right? Carley often dreams of wearing a long, flowy dress while running through a field (pack it up, Jo March). Her other dreams include her future, specifically working for Savage X Fenty. This Rihanna brand embodies everything that Carley desires to see in the industry: body positivity, a progressive outlook, and room for everyone. The lingerie is no doubt a bonus.
While Carley’s style may be hard to describe, she simply puts it as “a mix between old and new things.” Her personality and style mirror whatever situation she is in, which leaves her excited to embrace the changing nature of 2021 trends. While some trends will remain, there are several coming in (and coming in quickly). Carley’s predictions include corsets, zebra print making a comeback, GAP sweatshirts thanks to Emma Chamberlain, and luxurious knitwear. All will be paired with the year’s upcoming colors: green and brown (which look good on everyone). Let’s just pray, for everyone’s sake, that 2021 will be a better year than 2020.
