FGOTW

Who? Kirstie McCarthy, 21

Where? San Jose, California

What do you do? Currently I'm a student at the Academy of Arts in San Francisco studying menswear design and I work part time at Anthropologie. I'm also a blogger and I run Landfill a vintage shop. After I graduate I plan on creating a menswear collection that questions the roles of gender in society. Later on down the road I plan on opening an eco-friendly clothing boutique that will educate consumers on the effects of over-consumption.

What inspires you?
Life and the pursuit of it. I love seeing people express themselves through their personal style. I don't believe in trends and I refuse to follow them. Meeting and being around other people that feel the same way really keeps me going. Also I love seeing well dressed guys; like a man in tailored slacks and oxfords.

Why are you fly? I'm outspoken and I'm not afraid to question things around me. I feel like there are so many issues in the world and shedding light on them is the first step to change. I'm driven and passionate about making a change and I refuse to allow others' doubts to shape me. Not to mention I'm an avid thrifter I really dont believe in spending more than 20 dollars on an outfit.

Advice: Allow yourself to dream and actively go after achieving them. Don't allow anyone to tell you what you are capable of. No matter what you do there will be someone who doubts you and you have to use that negative voice to push you forward.