Amber Fargano, 22-year-old Fresno City College art student and local musician, is all about fun. She is not afraid to wear unusual colored lipstick, crazy prints or vintage clothes.

Since Amber was a little kid she considered herself different. She dressed conservatively but looked up to the girls that could pull off quirky outfits even though not everyone around liked the way they dressed. Growing up, Amber hoped that one day she could be one of those girls who are not afraid to express themselves in every way they want.

“I went through a lot of different styles before developing my own,” said Amber Fargano. “First I tried to copy music stars like Avril Lavigne in middle school because she was kind of ‘punky’ but then I realized it wasn’t for me. I kept experimenting until I felt comfortable.”

She still likes to look at fashion blogs but the things that inspire her the most are the things you can’t just straight copy from, such as aliens, Goths, witches, mermaids or unicorns.

“Weird things excite me and I try to make them a part of my outfit,” said Fargano. “I like being perceived as a non-human being, it is fun!”

The ’90s also had an impact on Amber’s style. Having grown up in that decade, cool grunge, quirky bright colors and prints make her nostalgic now. And the best part is the ability to still find the original pieces from that time on the market and stick them in her look.

That’s why shopping at thrift stores and yard sales are Amber’s hobbies. “Thrift stores in Fresno are the best!” she said. “There’s no competition at all so I always have good luck shopping.” Besides amazing prices, you find one-of-a-kind things which have their own stories and become to represent the new owner. This is what Fargano is aiming for with her style.

As an artist, she sees fashion as another way to have fun, create something and send a message to people around that she enjoys living her life. She hopes that she can set an example for those who are afraid to express themselves that it’s great to be who you are.

“I want to show the other girls that they can dress the way they want no matter what their body shape is,” said Fargano. “You can have a great sense of style even if you are a plus-size. It doesn’t mean your only choice to shop has to be Lane Bryant!”

On Amber: Jean vest, dress and boots – thrift stores; Patch on the vest – San Francisco fair; Hat –Goodwill; Tights – sock store in San Francisco; Glasses – Marc Jacobs

Style inspiration: “Weird girls of the ‘90s, aliens, witches, mermaids”

Music: “Animal Collective, Kate Bush, Sci-Fi Caper”

Movie: “Paprika, Spirited Away, The Shining”

Food: “Indian or Mexican”

Favorite place in Fresno: “Yoshi Now!”

Place to travel: “San Francisco or Portland”

Color: “Sea foam green, purple”