I was the kind of kid who imagined she was three different things before breakfast. However, playing pretend is not just for the preteen set. This fanciful practice has carried over into my young adulthood.

As a child, my parents let me pick out my outfits. Looking back at pictures, I believe this was for their entertainment as much as my own. However, the outfits I chose for myself (odd as they were) seemed to have some purpose, like part of a game.

Now with a more sophisticated understanding of fashion, I fully understand there is no joy in just wearing clothes with no intention whatsoever. Because of this, I would consider almost every outfit that I wear to be inspired.

With the sponge-like mind of a ten-year-old, I draw on inspiration from everything around me.

Emulating famous people in history, especially groundbreaking women, is a hobby of mine. When I wear my vintage inspired twill safari shorts, I’d like to think that I am channeling Jane Goodall. Suddenly, I take on her intelligence and inquisitiveness, ready to face a new day.

I probably watch more movies than I should, but cinema is an overflowing well of inspiration.

I recently bought a distressed woven sweater that immediately brought to mind the character Trinity from the Matrix Trilogy. It was not just the color or style of the sweater that I liked, but how it made me feel. Not only was it cozy for fall, but it also gave me the air of edgy rebellion that made Carrie-Anne Moss’ character so strong.

Just as I used to pretend that my closet was the gateway to Narnia, clothing also takes me to faraway places.

When I wear my plaid mini skirt Dr. Martens, I feel straight out of a London punk show. For a classier day trip, I leave Pullman behind to take an outing down the French Riviera in a romantically nautical-inspired ensemble.

Fantastic journeys aside, I consider my ensembles to be most inspired when they tell a story.

For example, when I wear my black turtleneck, I secretly pretend I am a chic British spy on a top-secret mission (that just happens to involve listening in on an organic chemistry lecture).

I am comfortable enough to admit this personal tidbit to the WSU community because it is my connection to my inner child that shapes not only my playful fashion identity, but also how I view the world around me.

I look at the fashion world not with the jaded eyes of an overworked college student, but with those of an unbiased and optimistic child. Because of this, the possibilities are endless. Clothing takes on almost magical powers. It can transform and transport you if you let it.

While flipping through Harper’s Bazaar, an advertisement caught my attention.

“Be the girl you were too lazy to be yesterday,” it said, picturing a vivacious woman wearing what appears to be faux leopard fur boots.

That quote not only told me to embrace fashion, but to live life to its fullest. Our existence on this planet is far too short to live a dull, uninspired life. I encourage you channel your inner child and find your inspiration. Who will you be you today?