You can see great-looking people on Wageningen campus. In this column, we put one of them in the spotlight. This time, meet Joshua van Aswegen, an Environmental Sciences Bachelor’s student from South Africa.
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‘Before Covid I was a very reserved person, someone who wanted to blend in, not stick out. I wore clothes that resembled pyjamas rather than outfits, and felt like I was breaking fashion boundaries when I wore a simple flannel. But when the whole world stood still during lockdown, I started scrolling. TikTok became my source of inspiration and movies started guiding my aesthetic. During that time, I discovered that fashion was an art form. Clothing provides a medium through which to present yourself, a tool to show your personality even to passing strangers. With newfound interest I delved into second-hand shops and discovered my thrift gift, an ability to scavenge through endless racks to find that one item that enriches my wardrobe. Now I plan my outfits days ahead, fearing nothing more than repeating something I’ve already worn.
When I was younger, I had to wear a uniform to school, so now uniformity is my biggest enemy. My whole demeanour has changed since I started dressing the way I do now. I feel more confident and outgoing. All of a sudden, I was surrounded by a great group of like-minded people, all with fantastic personalities and incredible fashion sense. And although I love it when they compliment me on my outfit, nothing is better than a simple “I like your shirt” from a stranger. But my favourite thing is seeing my little brother going through the same metamorphosis that I had when I was his age. At least, as long as he doesn’t start stealing my stuff.’