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EDITOR-IN-CHIEFS HANNAH FLINT & MIA MYRA HAMILTON
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING CAROLINE BOYD
STYLING DIRECTOR CASEY RAND
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER OLIVIA GONNELLA
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR MIA MCBURNEY
GRAPHIC DESIGN EDITOR LILAH SCOTT
ARTICLES EDITOR ELLA CHAPMAN
STYLING EDITOR REGAN DOWDY
PHOTO
CAITLIN CHESTLER
ZEN VINCION
MALUK “LUCKY” JONES
MOLLY WURZEL
LEIGHA GRAY
DESIGN
TAMIA TURNER
KARINA JARRIN
ERIN ABDULLA
RILEY MAURER
JULIA SVOBODA
STYLE
MARIIA PAVLOVA
KENDALL EURTON
ELLA FOGG
ERIKA TISDALE
KAITLYN HOWARD
WRITERS
ELIZABETH WEST
AMANDA ANDERSON
POLINA KHABIBULLINA
AZARIA POWER
JACLYN SIMMONS
GABRIELLE COLORUSSO
MELINA DIOU
ERIN ABDALLA
CJ LEATHERS
MARKETING
AMAYA SNYDER
BLAIR NORTON
DEDE SCHMITTLEIN
JADE THURMAN
KASEY GARZONE
KELCIE POLLINGER
LOLA LANE
MADDY BALDWIN
MIA DAMICO
MICHAELA BURNS
Letter from the
EDITORS
To create is to live. Creativity is something that exists within us all. It is how we feel, how we express, how we connect, and how we survive. To create is to be human.
To create is to be unique. To create is to be free. BLOSSOM on the principles of creativity, individualism, and freedom. is to provide a space for every student to freely express beautifully diverse and fiercely independent personalities greater community.
Our issue theme, Campus Couture, celebrates by showcasing what it means to be a Gamecock. Whether part of a student organization, studying abroad, producing competing in athletics, or simply making it to your 8AM morning, the creative spirit of this campus shines within goal of this issue was to spotlight that creative spirit, been under-appreciated for far too long. Each student our campus special and brings their own style, culture, presence to Columbia, SC and that deserves to be recognized.
We are honored to have the opportunity to share fraction of what makes this community so special with world. There aren’t enough words to properly thank everyone who had a part in the creation of this issue. staff members, our models, our fellow executive team, every member of this beautiful Columbia community aided in any way, we see you, we appreciate you, and applaud your dedication to supporting creative minds.
This issue of BLOSSOM Magazine is for you. Creativity flows within you, as it always has. Now, go and make your ideas physical.
With Peace + Love, Mia Hamilton & Hannah Flint
fashion, even though that is such a big part of me, but that’s the beauty in it. It makes me feel like I can achieve something and allows me to just really be in the moment.
Mia: Art is that broad and it all blends together. When it comes to your creative interests, how do they inspire your work?
Kaitlyn: To start music wise I have a lot of different genres I really like. I have my pop girlies like Ariana Grande then go 180 around to very indie like the Red-Hot Chili Peppers and Nirvana then I’ll go another 180 around and say classical music.
Mia: Oh, I love classical.
Kaitlyn: It’s the best. It’s so inspiring. So much work goes into creating a piece.
Mia: How has the visual media translated into your designs and, I know it’s the worst question in the world, what is your favorite movie?
Kaitlyn: The Devil Wears Prada. I watched that when I was maybe, 10 years old. That movie is
ingrained in me. Seriously. I want to be Meryl Streep. In general, even when I was younger and didn’t understand what I was watching, I was always attracted to the fashion. It’s always been the dresses. I mean, the little pieces I made when I was a kid were dresses. I don’t know, there’s something about a gown that really intrigues me.
Mia: Well, every little girl wants to be a princess.
Kaitlyn: Yes, literally.
Mia: So, what does it mean to you to create?
Kaitlyn: To create is a superpower. Everyone’s brains work so differently and that’s really one thing that I’ve learned getting older. I love seeing how other people’s brains work. Seeing other creatives and how they see the word create is different from how I see the word create, and that’s what’s really beautiful about it. That’s what the superpower is.
Mia: When you think about creating what change do you want to create in the design world?
Kaitlyn: I would love to let go of the whole
extra small to extra-large idea. Every single body is so different. This sizing range wants us to accept that we should look a certain way, and I would love to try and break that a little bit. That would be really cool.
Mia: Define femininity.
Kaitlyn: It’s many different things. In the last few years, I’ve been like, what power do I have in the world? Femininity is understanding your value, understanding what makes you so successful as a woman. We’re so brilliant in so many different ways. It’s such a wide range but it’s all so beautiful in each aspect because being a woman is so special Femininity is feeling that love in your chest for other women who are doing successful things with their lives.
Mia: Who or what inspires you in your own life?
Kaitlyn: My parents. I know that’s cliché, but they really do. They’ve been so supportive of all my dreams. My sister. She’s my best friend, honestly. I grew up in the dance world and that had a really big impact on who I’m now, having that community within a big group of girls.
Mia: So, to finish, once, again, who are you?
Kaitlyn: I’m a woman who has seen a lot of things, but who also has yet to live through a lot of things. I’m just a girl who is trying to figure out her place in this world and make it in fashion. The who am I question right now is really who am I going to be after I graduate and that’s the scariest thing, but isn’t it scary for all of us?
Mia: Yes, yes, it is.
Unraveled: The Story of Kaitlyn Howard
Global Threads
How Study Abroad Influences American Student
Fashion
Studying abroad isn’t just an academic experience; it’s a fashion revolution. For American students, the cultural immersion of living in another country often transforms their style, blending international influences with personal flair. This shift is evident in their post-study wardrobe choices, which reflect a newfound appreciation for versatile, globally inspired pieces.
The Rise of Fast-Fashion Favorites
Major international brands like Zara and Mango are staples for American students abroad. With their European origins, these stores offer chic, minimalist designs that resonate with the polished yet casual aesthetic often admired in cities like Paris or Barcelona. Students return home not only with suitcases full of tailored blazers and statement trousers but also with a keen understanding of how to build a capsule wardrobe, a concept rooted in European practicality and style.
The Charm of Local Finds
However, it’s not all about big-name retailers. One of the most exciting aspects of studying abroad is the discovery of local shops. By chatting with locals or wandering off the beaten path, students find unique boutiques, flea markets, and artisan studios brimming with pieces that tell a story. Whether it’s a handmade leather bag from Florence, vintage scarves from Spain markets, or knitted tops from Malta, these items carry memories and a sense of authenticity that can’t be replicated by mass-market brands.
Ultimately, studying American students a fresh perspective on personal style, their wardrobes into a of global experiences. it’s the tailored blazer the handcrafted from a local artisan, or the tricks picked up from street style in Milan, piece becomes a story of connection.
Fashion isn’t just about what wear—it’s about where you’ve
And for students who’ve abroad, their clothes are from their adventures.
A Lasting Impact
This exposure to international fashion reshapes students’ buying habits. They learn to prioritize quality over quantity and gravitate towards timeless, well-made pieces. Many also develop a passion for sustainable shopping, influenced by European thrift stores or markets emphasizing slow fashion.
ARTICLE JACLYN SIMMONS
PHOTO MIA MCBURNEY & CAITLYN CHESTLER
DESIGN ERIN ABDALLA
MODELS KAITLYN HOWARD, OLIVIA GONNELLA, & NICK GONNELLA
How International Students Adapt and Express Identity
ARTICLE POLINA KHABIBULLINA PHOTO MIA MCBURNEY & CAITLYN CHESTLER
DESIGN LILAH SCOTT & HANNAH FLINT MODELS MARIIA PAVLOVA & JULIA PERRI
Fashion is almost like a language that speaks for us. It allows individuals to communicate their values, beliefs, and affiliations through their clothing preferences. For international students, this can be even more complex, as their personal style is shaped by both their home culture and their new environment.
To explore how fashion reflects cultural identity, I spoke with two international students at USC, Mariia and Julia, about their personal style journey and how moving abroad has influenced their fashion choices.
Fashion is a way to express who we are and what we value, combining aesthetics with functionality. Clothing and accessories serve as a medium for cultural expression, with heritage deeply influencing personal style. Traditional garments not only identify one’s cultural roots but also symbolize
respect for history and tradition.
At the International Festival during International Education Week, Mariia represented Ukraine by wearing a traditional vyshyvanka and sharing sweets with visitors at her table. She brought elements of her culture through fashion and conversation.
“I was proud to represent my country’s clothes,” she said. Along with her outfit, she shared traditional treats, using food as another way to connect with others and celebrate her heritage.
“People seemed to really enjoy some candies like halva and gingerbread cookies.”
Fashion doesn’t just affirm cultural identity in a new country; it also builds bridges between an international student’s homeland and their new surroundings. When students move abroad, they adapt their wardrobe to local styles
while keeping elements of their culture.
Julia, originally from Brazil, blends both Brazilian and American aesthetics in her fashion choices.
“Since I’ve been in the U.S. for three years now, my style is a little more Americanized,” she explained. “My style is a mix of streetwear: black and white basics, jackets, and boots, combined with Brazilian influences like loose clothes, dresses, and lots of colors.” By merging influences from both cultures, international students create a style that is both familiar and new, reflecting their
unique experiences.
Clothes help people mirror on the outside who they are on the inside. Fashion is one of the most apparent ways in which cultural differences are manifested, showcasing unique traditions, values, and aesthetics. Adapting to a new environment allows international students to express their cultural identity in new ways.
Through their style, they navigate change while staying connected to their roots, proving that what we wear is a reflection of who we are.
USC CHANGING STYLES: Discovering the Fashion Styles of USC
ARTICLES ELIZABETH WEST, AMANDA ANDERSON & ERIN ABDALLA PHOTO MIA
& CAITLIN CHESTLER DESIGN TAMIA TURNER
MCBURNEY
Alternative Sororities
However, fraternities and sororities do not start and end with participation in College Panhellenic or the Interfraternity Council. There are several different Greek organizations specific to certain majors or cultures.
For instance, Sigma Omega Upsilon is one of five business fraternities at USC. Don’t let the name fool you, as this brotherhood is open to men and women.
“It's pretty competitive,” member Blake Bahr said. “I wouldn't say it's impossible to get into, though we've had people rush three times so there's still an air of competitiveness behind the scenes.”
Bahr also highlights the camaraderie and teamwork the fraternity shares during the recruitment process. Fellow fraternity member Julia Consiglio also enjoys the focus on business practice.
“I'm studying international business here, and I really liked that this fraternity was kind of internationally focused and culturally engaged,” Consiglio said. “That was kind of the drive behind it, but once I got to meet the people, I really knew that this was something that I wanted to participate in.”
USC also offers a few Greek organizations that are major-specific, including Alpha Omega
Epsilon. For student Chloe Wheeler, participating in this sorority was helpful for building a community of people within her major.
“I knew I wasn’t going to go through Panhellenic rush, so I thought it was like the perfect opportunity to meet new people as a freshman,” Wheeler said. “It’s just been an amazing experience since.”
Marine science student Madison Tovar also loves the connections made in being part of a sorority like Alpha Omega Epsilon.
“At least from marine science, we’ve got a lot of connections to the state run groups and organizations,” Tovar said. “We were just out helping someone in DHEC yesterday with sampling for her actual job.”
Misconceptions ft. Delta Tau Delta
But several Greek students aim to push past the stereotypes of taking part in their organization. The Delta Tau Delta fraternity is familiar with the misconceptions of taking part in the Interfraternity Council. Sophomore Oliver Driscoll says he almost didn’t join because of stereotypes.
“Frat guys aren’t usually looked too well upon by most of society,” Driscoll said. “Going into rush, I had that view too, and rush really changed it
Fiercely Independent: Alternative Fashion
While Columbia, South Carolina doesn’t seem like a place where the alternative culture thrives, the University of South Carolina has a small but mighty community of students who embrace alternative lifestyles. These individuals use fashion as a form of self-expression mostly blending influences from punk, goth, grunge, and other aesthetics. This mix creates a unique style that not only defines their appearance but also reflects their music preferences, hobbies, and beliefs. Alternative students at USC tend to gravitate toward each other, forming tight-knit social circles.
It very common to see groups of them hanging around campus. A lot of them find community in campus organizations that emphasize creativity, such as WUSC, the student-run radio station, and Off-Off Broadway, the musical theater club. They generally tend to gravitate towards clubs and organizations based on creativity.
“I started experimenting with my style when I got into alternative music in high school,” said
Morgan Tate, a sophomore majoring in Media Arts.
“I listen to a lot of indie rock and punk, so I take inspiration from bands like The Cure and Paramore.”
A Blend of Styles
Alternative fashion at USC is diverse as students combine different accessories and articles of clothing to create their own unique look that align with the aesthetic they most identify with. Common styles seen on campus are:
Punk: A lot of people who wear this style tend to thrift and make their own clothes. They wear band tees, ripped clothing, and statement pieces like crust jeans— heavily patched and distressed denim often associated with anarchy and anti-government views. Many punk students said they found inspiration from artists like Nascar Aloe, Jasiah, and Zillakami.
Goth: Dark aesthetics, dramatic makeup, and accessories like chains, chokers, and fishnet stockings define this style. Gothic fashion at USC often includes layered black outfits, bold eyeliner, and unique accessories that embrace individuality. Students of this aesthetic said they got inspiration from bands like Get Scared, Kiss, and Evanescence.
Grunge: Oversized flannels, distressed jeans, and jorts (jean shorts) are common staples. Students who dress this way said they got their inspo from ‘90s alternative rock bands like Nirvana, Weezer, and Green Day.
Modern-Day Hippies: This group embraces earthy tones, flowy clothing, and sustainable fashion choices. Many modern-day hippies at USC are environmental science majors who combine their aesthetic with eco-conscious living. “I thrift most of my clothes and use natural fabrics because I want to reduce my environmental footprint,” said Julia Meadows, a junior in Environmental Science. “It’s about looking good while doing good for the planet.”
The Meaning Behind the Fashion
For many, alternative fashion is more than just clothing, it’s their lifestyle.
“I feel like the media portrays the alternative community as being rebellious or troublemakers
because of how we dress and look,” said Cameron Brooks, a first-year English major who embraces goth fashion. “But in reality, a lot of us are just creative, passionate people who care about important issues.”
Many students in the alternative scene participate in activism for numerous social justice causes. They are very big in advocating for things like LGBTQ+ rights, racial injustices, and environmental sustainability.
“I’ve attended protests and donated to different causes,” said Ethan Carter, a senior who identifies with the punk scene. “Punk has always been about going against society norms and fighting for what you think is right.”
A Welcoming Community
Despite the misconceptions surrounding alternative culture, students in this community describe it as welcoming and inclusive and after spending a great deal of time with them, I would too.
The alternative fashion scene at USC may not be the largest, but it is vibrant, expressive, and deeply connected. Whether through punk, goth, grunge, or an eco-friendly aesthetic, these students use fashion to make a statement, both about themselves and the world they want to create.
The Intersection of Greek and Geed
For many students, going off to college is their first taste of freedom, their first chance to explore who they are on their own terms. And for many, that involves learning who they are and growing into a version of themselves that might be completely different than who they were before.
The experiences students choose to participate in and the people they surround themselves with are incredibly influential in their journey of self-discovery. Students involved in Greek Life perceive personal style differently than students who aren't. It’s impossible to tell if someone is in a sorority or fraternity just by looking at them, but being in Greek life can influence how students think about fashion.
When it comes to fashion, sororities and fraternities can act as a built-in guide for what is good and what is bad. Sororities and fraternities are communities and, like any other community, they have certain conventions that members are expected to follow.
Though there are many stereotypes about what people involved in Greek life wear, it’s important to look at these stereotypes with nuance. Fraternities and sororities were initially created to be exclusive literary clubs for like-minded individuals.
Though Greek organizations don’t exclude marginalized students anymore, some of their practices still reflect these exclusionary policies. When an organization built on a foundation of exclusion no longer excludes people, it often shifts to embrace conformity.
But in the face of conformity, there will always be independent thinkers. One of these students is Tristen Davis, a junior at USC and a member of the engineering fraternity Theta Tau. Davis understands that clothing communicates a message about who you are, and he doesn’t let other people’s prejudices influence what he wears.
“And it’s almost like you- like you don’t wanna conform because like, I’m Black, what I
would be conforming to is the institution that is also oppressing me so you wanna do something else,” Davis said.
“Sometimes I might intentionally wear something that is maybe like frowned upon culturally like to class like I might wear a durag or something. And it’s just because like, I don’t- I don’t want to feel like I can’t wear something just because of like a stereotype.”
In his approach to fashion, Davis focuses on finding elevated versions of basic clothing and creating combinations that break the rules of fashion. Ariana Alexiou, a senior psychology and anthropology major at USC, also finds themself dressing outside of what is considered normal.
Alexiou draws inspiration from colorful beetles, butterflies, and 60s-70s fashion. To Alexiou, being creative through their style means being happy with who they are and letting all of their “weird” parts shine. Having fun is the most important thing to Alexiou, they don’t let other
people’s opinions affect them.
“We’re all on this earth to just kind of wander around, and so why not wear some fun things while you’re wandering around?” Alexiou said. “You know, literally no one cares. I feel like people are like, ‘My god, everyone’s looking at me.’ No, no one cares.”
Because Alexiou has let go of the hold other people’s opinions have on them, they can fully express who they are. Alexiou conveys their energetic personality through bright colors, fun patterns, and vintage pieces that draw the eye.
People who understand that fashion conveys a message will always find a way to express themselves, whether that’s by doing their makeup to resemble a bug or by spicing up classic clothing staples. At USC, students are exposed to a wide variety of different styles, at first glance it might look like the greeks and the geeds are worlds apart but they’re much more similar than people think.
USC Gameday Fashion
ARTICLE AMANDA ANDERSON PHOTO CAITLIN CHESTLER & MOLLY WURZEL
DESIGN KARINA JARRIN
Gameday at the University of South Carolina isn’t just about tailgating, watching football and cheering on the Gamecocks. It’s a whole fashion show. USC students do a great job at combining school spirit with personal fashion, turning the stands at Williams-Brice Stadium into a runway of garnet and black.
Cowboy Boots: The Gameday Essential
On game day at USC, what accessory are you guaranteed to see? Cowboy boots. These classic shoes are easy to maneuver through the busy stadium steps and tailgates because as they are both fashionable and functional. Cowboy boots are the ideal combination of school pride and Southern charm as most students seem to pair them with denim skirts or overalls.
Denim Meets Spirit Wear
Since denim was mentioned it is important to recognize it as another gameday favorite. Students wear denim clothing of all forms, rocking everything from distressed jean skirts to overalls. The flexible and very versatile fabric is a filler piece that students seem to mostly pair with garnet and black crop tops, halter shirts and dresses. Layering denim with school-themed accessories ensures a look that’s both fashionable and game-ready.
Effortless Beauty Looks
The go-to look for game day appears to be natural and clean when it comes to makeup. Many USC girls choose to wear very little makeup, such as a swipe of tinted lip balm, light eyeliner, light foundation and blush, to accentuate their glowing complexions. This relaxed style keeps the main focus on game day while still being ready for the always present cameras.
Why It Matters
At USC, gameday fashion is a celebration of community pride, individual style, and school enthusiasm that goes beyond what students wear. Gamecocks demonstrate that supporting their team is always done in style, whether they are wearing strategically chosen garnet-andblack ensembles or USC merchandise.
AN ODE TO THE SUNSEEKERS: The Impact of Underground Creatives at USC
ARTICLE
Under the hot ass February sun, I had the chance to dive into the creative minds of USC and beyond. Amir, Aaron, Isaiah, Bryce, Will, Caprielle, and Ryan are bringing their passions to life.
Mia: How did you all get involved in this?
Amir: So, originally, Aaron, I found him taking photos. We all romanticize the same shit. We all wanna create, so everyone just keeps adding up. Now we have a group of 10 or something.
Aaron: My freshman year, I ran into Amir. He thought my fit was fire. We started hanging out a little bit more, then sophomore year, we started getting really close and doing a lot more film and stuff for Thrift Street.
Isaiah: I met Amir when I was on campus
MIA HAMILTON PHOTO MAZELY & FLUORESCEEIE DESIGN LILAH SCOTT
one day. I felt a him tap me on the back. I almost punched him because I thought he was a stranger, but I knew who he was from @fitsusc so we hugged and became homies.
Bryce: It was the latest Depop event. I came out to get a bag. Me, being myself, I decided to steal the show. I went interviewing all around campus being boisterous to tell people to go get bags. Amir ended up seeing the video and asked me if I wanted to help with the other side projects. We started to build a connection.
Will: Amir is my RA. I feel very blessed to have him as my RA. I would not be doing things like this. I am so happy that I can.
Caprielle: I am his girlfriend. I am his girlfriend and he copied my idea. Actually, I did this first, but
it’s fine.
Ryan: It all started at Badminton. Amir was wearing cologne, he likes to wear French Waltz by Tyler, the Creator. I smelled it on him, asked him is that French Waltz. The rest is history.
Mia: Define what it means to create.
Amir: It’s not that deep. It’s just like, you have an idea, you wanna make it happen, so, you do everything you can to execute it at the highest level possible.
Aaron: I’d say a huge majority of people have ideas that never come to fruition. To create is to have that idea and set aside all the fears you have and just make it express yourself. It’s exploring the depths of your mind.
Will: To create is to express your own ideas in any sort of medium that you can, whether it be visual, audio, anything like that. That’s what creating is to me.
Caprielle: It means to express yourself and connect with people.
Ryan: To create means being something
bigger than yourself, even if it’s just contributing a little bit. Whether it’s music, clothes, an event like this, I think it’s important to make yourself larger and put what’s in your mind out.
Mia: Tell me about your inspirations.
Amir: What I’m gonna be doing in 10 years. I wake up every morning like, I’m gonna do this, it’s gonna pay off in ten years. It’s not like a certain thing. Everything’s inspiring, you know what I’m saying? Look, the sun is shining. That’s the real inspiration. I love the sun. That’s my favorite shit ever.
Aaron: Every director from every movie I’ve ever watched means something to me. I feel like you can really learn something from every movie. Amir is honesty a really big inspiration for me. I’ve always had ideas and there’s been times I’ve set projects aside because I was too scared. Amir helped me get ideas out. I’m forever grateful for that.
Isaiah: I study photographers way before my time, whether it’s portrait photographers or street photographers, and try to implement it in my work.
Bryce: I love Tyler, the Creator and Kanye. Being able to just be yourself no matter what someone might think or say about you. Sometimes you have to be that person that goes against grain.
Will: I’m just big into fashion. That’s really it. I’m a skateboarder. It’s where I get of my fashion and video work from.
Caprielle: Amir’s an inspiration. I feel like
especially being a college student, I’m really surrounded by a lot of people I can get inspiration from.
Ryan: I’m inspired by a lot of things. Definitely having creative people around me, people to support me and look at the stuff they do. That’s inspiring. Everybody around me who creates makes me want to create more and be myself.
Mia: What is your favorite project you’ve done to date?
Amir: This event, cause look at this, everywhere you go, you see posters, people walking around with tote bags, my music is playing. The whole reason I do this is so I can listen to my music. That’s like my favorite thing ever. I have a 16
hour playlist.
Aaron: I’d say the one working on now. I’m filming a Thrift Street documentary. Hopefully it’s gonna be done soon.
Isaiah: I wanted to shoot on a more human level, so I put out an ad on Facebook marketplace. I wanted to take pictures of the everyday person. I’ve shot a lot of average adults in their homes, after or before work, in a more documentarian style.
Bryce: Being a part of this. I think just being out here and a part of this whole process leading up to this has been one of the most fun experiences of my life.
Will: Stuff like this has been fun. I’ve put out skate videos for my friends. I’ve done highlight reels of trips.
Caprielle: I’m currently involved with a magazine at UNC Charlotte. I’m the event coordinator and it takes a lot to run an event, but it’s fun.
Ryan: I’m in a band. I’m a drummer for this guy, Pablo Atlas, and we’ve done all types of gigs. We actually played at Thrift Street one time. We have new music coming out and big gigs in the summer. It’s a nice community. I’m proud of that.
Cooper Jones
Domenica George
Ben Langley
Simone Harris
Will Barr
Aaron Williams
Solomon Marant
Thomas Flint
Mariia Pavlova International Student: Ukraine
Tau Beta Sigma/ Carolina Band
Alpha Omega Epsilon
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Darla Moore School of Business
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Delta Chi Blossom Magazine