Fashion: Jenna Rose Forte ‘16

Fashion: Jenna Rose Forte ‘16

Meet Jenna Rose Forte, a Junior, English major, creative writing minor (with a focus in poetry) from Virginia Beach, VA. I met with JR to discuss functional clothing (like a jacket that protects you from an avalanche) and that thing where you buy something expensive and then never wear it.

How would you describe your style?

I like wearing things that are flattering, comfortable, functional, and practical. And I really like androgynous style, non-gendered [clothing].

Where do you buy clothes?

All of my stuff is from thrift stores, or department store sale sections, or occasionally I’ll spend $40 on something I don’t need. I got these American Apparel thigh-high leg warmers and I was like “These are so fetch! Everyone’s going to love them!” I wore them twice.

Do you like to online shop?

I like ModCloth, Topshop, I really like the idea of NastyGal but they don’t make clothing for bigger women. Topshop has extended sizes…One size fits all is not real. The place where I online shop the most is Victoria’s Secret. They have the best leggings. They’re not sheer, they go up to XL, and you can get short, long, and regular [length].

What inspires you? Are you inspired by certain books or movies?

Films yes, but I’m inspired by Jessa [Jemima Kirke’s character] from Girls, and American Horror Story: Coven. I become obsessed with one genre, or person, or author, and try to emulate them. My roommate’s from Europe, I’m inspired by her. My family’s from Europe…I’m also inspired by my job. I work at the production company my dad works for which is a branch of DuPont. I work as a wardrobe assistant and coordinator.

Do you want to continue working in film?

Yeah, definitely. I really like working with palettes and I really like seeing how…color choices reflect content. I study visual arts along with literary arts and I feel like they go hand-in-hand for me.

Do you think your style has changed since you came to Dickinson?

ABSOLUTELY! Oh my God. I come from a surfer city, like Rainbows, short-shorts, V-necks, surfer tees. I feel like I’ve gained inspiration going to school with people from so many different areas. I’m also a lot more comfortable with myself, I don’t need to wear baggy clothes. I feel like my fashion has changed in the sense of owning my figure, owning what I’m wearing. I pick and choose what I want to enhance.