By Grace Gavilanes, Staff Writer

The Chronicle: What is your name?

Silvia Stanciu

The Chronicle: What is your major/minor?”

SS: I’m an English major and a French minor.

The Chronicle: How would you describe your style?

SS: My style is extremely eclectic. I go from sporty-casual to girly to bohemian, but whatever I wear always has some sort of edge.

The Chronicle: What would you consider your signature item?

SS: I’m always wearing rings. I layer them because I love the effect. Everything goes together in the end, and they bring something extra to the outfit.

The Chronicle: Who are you inspired by and why?

SS: I’m generally inspired by NYC street style. There is so much originality downtown, and I love watching unlikely color schemes work so well together. Also, I draw inspiration from Chelsea Simmons, a fabulous fashionista and brilliant fashion blogger I met this year. She finds the perfect balance between girly and edgy and always adds exquisite heels in the mix.

The Chronicle: Where is your favorite place to shop?

SS: My favorite place to shop is probably Urban Outfitters. Not very original, I know, but I’ve managed to scope out very interesting independently- manufactured clothes. Also, I really like H&M and Zara because their clothing is versatile and great for layering.

The Chronicle: What are the least and most expensive items you’ve purchased?

SS: The least expensive item I’ve purchased is a purple, frayed scarf that I can match with anything. It was two dollars! The most expensive item I’ve ever bought is my leather jacket, and that was a huge bargain too at 60 dollars.

The Chronicle: Would you consider yourself a fashion connoisseur?

SS: Guilty! I know way more designers than necessary, I’m afraid. I read fashion magazines and blogs, watch runway shows, and think up outfit combinations that somehow end up effectively pairing everything in my closet.

The Chronicle: What do you think about the Military Look that is becoming such a hot trend this year?

SS: I think it’s coming back from 5 years ago. I remember buying skinny cargo pants in 2005, and I just pulled them out. Granted, they don’t fit me anymore, but cargo fabrics and cuts are generally flattering and easy to match, especially if they’re khaki. I just recently bought a military-style jacket, and I’m happy to say that it’s incredibly versatile. The classic, straight cuts become instantly feminine if you cinch the waist with a cute belt; it creates the perfect hourglass body.

The Chronicle: What advice would you give to girls trying to update their fall wardrobe?

SS: You don’t have to store away your summer dresses and skirts. What you can do is layer your cute dresses with plaid shirts and vests, and then add a belt to show off your waist. Also, don’t forget neutral or dark tights. Depending on how busy the prints on the rest of the outfit are, try patterned tights. If you’re ultra girly, then wear heeled boots. What’s hot right now is neutral platform-heeled boots, so they look great and feel warm and comfortable.

Silvia Stanciu makes an effort to follow the latest trends on the runway. (Grace Gavilanes/The Chronicle)