October ‘25
Samantha Tucker.
@samantha_o._tucker
What are some of your biggest fashion & style inspirations?
My Mom, for sure. Both her & her style are funky and fierce —dancing around in clothes too big for me, I loved wearing my mom’s clothes growing up. It made me feel closer to my mom and, at the same time, sprung me into my appreciation for the fashion world. I really got to grow into my style, with the inspiration of my mom, however I wanted. My mom encouraged me to wear whatever made me feel comfortable and creative. She taught me that no matter where you go, casual or formal, you can style yourself with a little spice.
How do you find your style changed since being at Tulane?
Coming to New Orleans and Tulane, I feel like I can really dress like myself here.
My style was less understood before arriving at Tulane. I felt off-kilter for wearing blazers and heels to school while a majority of classmates wore the same type of hoodies and leggings each week. Unlike my hometown, the inclusive fashion culture here at Tulane feeds my style curiosity; I get outfit inspiration just by walking around on McAlister, seeing new styling tactics I hadn’t thought of before.
What are some words you’d use to describe your style?
A little bit classy, sassy, and bad*ssy.
These words, as my friends concur, are the best to explain my style. The southern touches of my outfits are rooted in my Texas upbringing, and they’re found in my elegant tops and classic southern patterns. But my OOTD’s are incomplete without a little flair, a little “sass”. For me, that means pairing those tops with an embellished baggy jean, alongside a stack of curated bracelets, layered necklaces, and a diverse earring stack. The “badass” part comes from how you wear it; walk around comfortable and confident in your outfit, knowing you look great.
What Is Your Fashion Advice For Fall in New Orleans?
It’s versatile. I can wear layerable tank tops, unique outerwear, and I get to rock boots. Boots are perfect for fall and any weather.
New Orleans’ fall weather is similar to the Texas climate I’m used to. When I got to school, I was prepared for the heat, not the humidity. After a couple of months of sweltering summer heat, NOLA fall swoops in as a breezy, less humid surprise. I take advantage of this time by wearing sweaters of varying sizes and shapes, and the jewelry lineup is the same as always. A fall must: Boots. Frye boots, Leather boots, and Cowboy Boots- all boots are staples. Coming to Tulane, I was apprehensive about wearing cowboy boots- I didn’t want to be that southerner wearing her boots amongst a sneaker-headed Northern student body. But to my surprise, no matter where you’re from, Tulane students love their cowboy boots. This phenomenon encouraged me to not just sport my cowboy boots, but the array of booties in my wardrobe.
Samantha, Do You Have Any Hot Takes?
I don’t have any hot takes because I feel like everyone should just wear whatever they want, as long as they feel confident in it.
Though I’m not very picky, my one “hot take” might be horribly controversial… jorts. They're kind of an awkward length. I’ve been trying to style them, but it’s been a bit tough. I get why people are into them. They have an edge, and they pair well with a variety of tops and long sleeves. But for me, I just haven't found the right fit. I bought a pair recently from Bershka, and I think I might be able to work after some Pinterest inspo. I’ve seen people wearing “poncho-esque”, baggy tops, and bandeau scarves with them, and it makes me like them a lot.
They are actually quite a good fall wardrobe staple for those who enjoy wearing them. You get a little breeze wearing shorts but keep warm with a fun jacket, sweater, or long sleeve. Wearing an outfit like this, I love wearing chunky belts. Without doing too much, they add a layer of style and utility. No matter what, I will try to style my shorts, especially in the summer when it gets warm again.
Finally, What Are Some Fashion Words Of Wisdom You Have?
I have a lot, but here are a couple of things I think people should know and see:
Thrifting on Magazine Street. So underrated, and I didn’t know how great the shopping was until Parents’ Weekend 2024. I like Magpie Boutique on Magazine. They have very original, mature pieces, and they are a women-owned business.
It’s okay to get common pieces that other people have. My rule is if it makes you feel glamorous, get it. I have a Kendra Scott bracelet. Everybody from my hometown owns Kendra Scott, but I found a really beautiful, classy piece that I wear every day.
Don’t be afraid to mix silver and gold jewelry. It’s okay if you don’t like it. I love doing it and find a lot of great mixed silvers at local antique and vintage stores I visit when I travel.
I sleep in my jewelry. Some people are nervous to, but I want to go to bed and wake up stylish.
Buy local. Support small businesses. Create your own clothes if you can. Stay stunting.