Dr. Brunson

Baylor Professor, Dr. Brunson, is known for her fashion insight in and out of the classroom. From directing the apparel department to hearing her knowledge of the industry, there is so much to learn from this stylish woman. She is confident, professional, and this weeks So Hot Right Now.

How would you describe your style?

It has changed a lot since I was a college student. It’s not as bizarre as before. I do my own thing. I don’t care whether or not it’s in style.  I think people should wear what they want to wear.

When picking out an outfit, where do you start?

My daughter always says that everything in my closet is black, but I would say my clothes are either black or bright colors. For work, I start with my main garment, which is usually a dress and then find accessories to go with it. Due to past surgeries, I have limited choices for shoes, so I pick those out last. 

What is an article of clothing you can't live without?

Jeans and sweatshirts. Students don't see me dressing like this, but they are just comfortable. 

How has your style been impacted since you started teaching?

I started teaching at Louisiana Tech, where it was very formal. There, I would wear formal suits and dresses every day. There were no casual Fridays because it was a lot more formal during that time. Since I started teaching at Baylor, we have had more opportunities to dress casually. We are actually encouraged to wear Baylor shirts for Spirit Fridays. 

What made you want to teach?

God. I had wanted to be a buyer in New York at first, but I was praying to God, and he made it clear to me that I was meant to teach college students. So, during the senior year of my bachelors degree, I went to see my counselor to find out what I needed to do. She explained that I would have to get my M.S and Ph.D, and I said “okay!”

Why did you enter the fashion industry?

I started by working in retail and really enjoyed it. I love selling and numbers. I like the logistics of the industry and the process of getting a garment from point A to point B. 

What was your style like when you were a college student?

My teachers probably would have said “bizarre or strange” but I just wore whatever I wanted. You never knew what to expect. I would wear camo one day and then a tux the next. I believe that just because something isn't in style doesn't mean you shouldn't wear it. 

What is your favorite thing about teaching at Baylor?

Baylor is like home to me. My grandparents worked here. My parents and my husband’s parents went here. I spent a few years here. When I am here, it just feels like home. And I, of course, love the students. 

Written by: Kaitlyn Cameron

Photos by: Emilee Edwards

Edited by: Josie Gruber