Campus Style Watch: Mixing the traditional with modern
by Eleya Raim – Horizon Features Editor
Student: Galed Krisjayanta
Where He Calls Home: Indonesia
Major: Vocal Performance
The Look: Galed is modeling his own unique cross-cultural ensemble. Nike boots, maroon jeans and a blazer highlight the traditional Indonesian Batik.
Why this outfit? “I like this outfit because I like to look clean, professional and classy.”
What does this ensemble say about you as a person and your sense of style?
“I am here as a performer and I need to look professional and be myself. I want to be different, not just follow other people’s trends.”
Favorite thing about this look? “The shirt is made in Indonesia and the blazer has a good color contrast. I like to mix dressy and casual. I also really love my hair. It takes a lot of time for me to do and I love the smell and style.”
What would you call your personal style? “Vintage, classy and a little bit of hipster.”
Fashion advice? “Make sure that what you are wearing is comfortable and that it fits the activities that you are doing. As a college student I want to look professional and ready for my day.”
Were you trying to impress anyone when you got dressed this morning?
“Oh yeah. Of course. Yes! I enjoy people telling me that I look nice. It feels good.”
Funny Fashion Disaster Story? “Back in Indonesia I was singing with my jazz band. I wasn’t able to go to my last meeting because I had other plans. I didn’t know the dress code for the concert and I thought that we were going to wear all white. So, I got my all white outfit. White tuxedo, shoes, everything! It was very shiny. But, when I got to the concert, everyone was wearing all black. I was like, “Well guys, no one told me.” It was surprising, but I didn’t really care.”
How does fashion differ between Indonesia and the United States? “Indonesia is a tropical place close to the equator. So, we mostly wear summer fashions. In my city, our famous fashion is the Batik, which is the kind of shirt that I am wearing. Nelson Mandela’s favorite piece of clothing is the Batik!
How do you combine styles from two different cultures? “I combine them just like I am right now. I use my Batik as my shirt and the American blazer. I want people to know that I am an Indonesian, but still follow the fashion trends.”
Other advice: “Be comfortable in what you wear. Following the fashion is good, but don’t overdo it.”
