outfits of columbia

Terry Allen (TC, ’15) is an MA candidate at Teacher’s College, Columbia University. He is a former White House staffer, a UC-Berkeley grad and co-founder of Outfits of Columbia.

Tell us about yourself! I’m Terry Allen, Bay Area native. I did my undergraduate studies at UC Berkeley where I majored in rhetoric. From there I took a year off school and did some acting in LA, some commercial work in New York and worked in the White House. 

Why did you choose Columbia for graduate school? Why not is the question? In terms of academics, Columbia was my best choice in regards to my advisor. Columbia has Professor Kevin Dougherty who has done specific work on my specialization, high school to college transition, and I wanted the opportunity to work with him.

Personally, New York is my second home. I did a semester at NYU during my undergraduate studies and my goal was to come back. I felt like I started something here I had to finish outside my studies related to my interest in arts and fashion.

How would you describe your style? My style can be described in one word: rebellious. I have always been a person who challenges norms. That challenge can take many forms depending on where I am. While working at the White House the dress code was very conservative, you know? The dark suit, white shirt, red or blue tie. When I look back on my style at that time in my life I was far from conservative. I have this picture from my time there and I’m wearing a red plaid blazer. Why? Because I’m a rebel.

Where do you shop on a grad student budget? Topman is my go to. That’s my home, that’s my store. It’s affordable. They’re stuff is not too cheap in regards to their fabrics, textures and materials but not too expensive where a current college student could not afford it. I love sale racks, too. I do. I take advantage of sale racks and student discounts.

Who are your style icons?

Russell Westbrook. He’s an amazing basketball player. I respect his game but I respect his style as well. He wears a lot of color; I think it’s something he does very well. I love that pop of color, not too much, but just enough to say "hey". I always have to have that pop of color. I truly believe that I can pull anything off. It is never about the clothes, your personality is what matters.

I’m looking for a professional, suit & tie, style icon. I’ve been following Alexander Nash and I really respect their mix of professional wear and casual footwear. That’s trending right now with me. I think they do a really good job mixing professional and casual.

Why did you decide to start Outfits of Columbia?

I love the art of storytelling through style and fashion. It’s a conversation. You can have a conversation with someone and convey something just by what you have on. From accessories or shoes to whether you want to put on a hat on or not, it’s all art.

What are you listening to these days? A mixture between jazz, gospel and R&B. I really rely on Pandora by artists. I’ll set it to a Mali Music, Sam Smith or an Usher playlist and just let it go.

Other than education and fashion, what are you passionate about? I’m passionate about other people. I’m so passionate about using my experiences and my knowledge to help other people achieve their goals. For me, it’s about helping people through access and information.

Would you consider yourself a man about town on the Teacher’s College campus? You seem to know everyone. I think my camera helps with that [Allen runs the students of tc instagram and tumblr account]. I think it’s attitude as well though. Your attitude will open doors for you and will close doors for you. You have to be willing to invite people in and welcome them into your life.