Abby Sowder

Classification: Senior

Major: Journalism, Public Relations

Hometown: Dallas, Texas

With a fun and classic style complemented by unique accessories, Abby is sure to catch your eye on campus. Her dedication to taking fashion risks and her carefully curated style are what make Buttoned’s very own Senior Editor Abby Sowder this week’s So Hot Right Now.

How would you describe your style?

I’d describe my style as fun, but classic. I try to choose pieces I know I’ll be able to wear for multiple seasons, but also be able to jazz them up in a new way every time. That’s sort of the reason why I’m really into fun accessories, because it can kick up any classic outfit to a new, exciting level. My favorite accessories include eye catching earrings or sunglasses of all shapes and colors.

Where do you draw style inspiration from?

Honestly, I feel like I get inspiration from what I see on Instagram from the brands I follow and even the promoted influencers that pop up on my feed. One of my favorite accounts I follow is @manrepeller, which showcases a range of styles and clothing combos that I’d never think of putting together. While I haven’t tried to recreate many of the outfits they post, a lot of their stuff does inspire me to take more risks with what I wear.

Where are your favorite places to shop?

I really love shopping on Etsy because I’ve found lots of unique and vintage pieces on there that I know I wouldn’t be able to find in any other department store. But, my go-to places that never fail me are The Gap and Zara.

What are your favorite trends right now?

Ok, I know velvet has technically been “trendy” for the past couple of years, but I really never get tired of it and think it’s a timeless and elegant fabric. I’m pretty sure I have a velvet item of every article of clothing you could think of—I just really love the way it looks and feels! But other than that, I’m a huge, huge fan of the chunky gold earring look right now. I feel like that’s been a big thing recently, and I especially like the look of them paired with a casual or athletic outfit. Personally, I think gold chunky hoops go with anything.  

What is your favorite article of clothing and why?

My favorite article of clothing for the past couple years has been this vintage green corduroy jacket I ordered on Etsy from the 90’s. I ordered it in the middle of July and was so impatient for the weather to change so I could start wearing it out. Since then, it’s been one of my staples for the fall and winter seasons, and people always ask me where I got it!

How has your style changed in college?

I think as a freshman I was more inclined to fit in with whatever everyone else was wearing, so I kind of just molded into that style of oversized t-shirts and leggings, which don’t get me wrong, is incredibly comfy and is an outfit I still wear to class. But as I got older and started curating my style a little bit more, I started wanting to take more risks and wear more exciting things around campus! I found that getting somewhat “dressed up” for class boosted my confidence and gave me a chance to wear pieces that I was excited about.

What has been your favorite part of being a Buttoned team member?

Being a part of Buttoned has been such a fun experience during my time at Baylor! My favorite part has probably been the opportunity to meet some of the sweetest and most stylish people in Waco. From the staff and the talented students we’ve featured on our blog, I’ve gotten to meet and learn about some really cool individuals, and I’ve loved every minute of it!

What she’s wearing:

Dress: Spice Village

Shoes: Doc Martens

Earrings: Etsy

Bracelets: Buddha Girl

Rings: Street Vendors

Written by: Josie Gruber

Photographed by: Carissa Setiawan