Besides being in awe of the incorporation of high fashion into her everyday garb, I am transfixed by Caroline Dengel’s remarkable vintage finds. Her ensembles always have a classic nod to a bygone era, such as a gorgeous military coat or high Victorian collar. Not to mention, the Cleveland student has serious skill at DIY! She frequently lusts after couture pieces, and creates her own on a whim… like a multi-layer chain necklace à la Givenchy. We love how her look has a collegiate aura to it. It’s one thing to be chic and innovative, but Caroline is also intelligent - and smart never goes out of style!

Trademark look? Anything goes. People tell me I wear a lot of black, but that is usually because it is so easy. I also love wearing dramatic pieces – anything architectural or draped fabrics. I love playing with texture, patterns, fabrics, anything. I’m always up for something new.

Gig? I am a student at a local art and design college in Cleveland, Ohio. I’m starting their Fashion Merchandising program to become a buyer, fashion consultant, or a fashion director. Maybe all three! After that, it’s New York City.

Currently coveting? Anything Balmain. That, and the new Marni S/S 2009 shoes!

Grooving to? Classics! The Beatles, Joni Mitchell. I recently discovered a Swedish band, Melpo Mene. Really chill music.

Most beloved finds? An incredible lace skirt by Todd Magill. I also just picked up a Nanette Lepore dress in New York City for a fraction of the price. It is one of those pieces that fits so well, it is hard not to wear it every day.

Favorite haunts? Locally, I love a cute little café called Tartine. Great food, awesome people. I’ve also spent a lot of time in Florence, Italy, so while I’m there, I love to cross the bridge over to Palazzo Pitti and hang out in the bakeries, cafés, and vintage stores.

Vintage vice? I love to collect coats, so when I found a camel-colored swing coat from the ‘50s on thriftwares.com, I splurged and added it to my coat closet. It is so classic, I knew it was something I’ll wear for years. I love rummaging around my local vintage and thrift stores because Cleveland is known for having some of the best vintage. I always find blazers and boots from the ‘70s. I can’t get enough!

Favorite fashion era? Hands down, the early 1800s - the Jane Austen era. My mom and I always say that if we were to make a style comeback, or even create clothes, we would be inspired by that era. Everything was so beautiful and elegant.

Closet envy? Kate Lanphear seems to have an endless amount of goodies. Even Jane from SeaOfShoes.com. Talk about feeding my shoe fetish.

Can’t live without: A really killer pair of heels. I like to have many, you know, as back ups. I love shoes that grab attention. That way, I can get off the hook with a mediocre outfit. Oh, and Alba chapstick. Coconut flavor, preferably.

You may not know… that I’m terrified to grow up. It is all happening too fast!

Head over to pensareancora.blogspot.com for more of Caroline’s fashion musings.

Editor’s Note: If you, or people you know, have great personal style, we’d love to feature you! Send your thoughts and photos to info@thesupermelon.com. Please write “Real Style” in the subject line. Thanks!