Writing and Photography by Lola Anaya
The setting: New York City on the quintessential autumn afternoon. Clouds feathering the sky, trees yellowing, and a chat in Central Park with Class of 2024’s Mercer Kriese. We laugh over vegan food, socially distanced of course, and discuss how fall classes are unwinding. Kriese recently won the election to be one of SGA’s senators after a campaign of Instagram posts, networking among Smithies, and branding herself as a hardworking, passionate individual. She values social justice, inclusivity, and taking action to be a strong leader and help others.
Her fashion sense exudes confidence and by looking at her, you can see someone determined to make a statement and stand out. For our shoot, she wears a white button-down shirt paired with olive green wide-legged pants, a classy black blazer, ankle boots, and a white purse to complement her outfit.
Blazers and button-down shirts are the staple for business casual looks, but they are also trending this fall among younger generations. She aims to please with this dark academia fashion and turns heads with her strong demeanor. The Central Park backdrop enhances her color palette and lets us know she has the fundamental look for fall 2020. This year has opened many eyes to a range of challenges and issues meant to hold us back, but Kriese is defying the odds.
We talk about her plans as a Senator, and she finds it important to mention that she is one of two first years with this status. It can be intimidating to be one of the youngest members of SGA with her position, especially given that we have not had any opportunities to experience Smith’s campus life, but she is making it work. Her goals include organizing more events and programs for first years to bond and get excited for college in person. Building a strong community is valuable, especially in times like this, and her efforts are so important.
We all have our ways to make a difference in our lives, and Kriese has been known to do all she can. From attending Black Lives Matter protests across New York City, to spreading awareness with her online platform, and now being elected to the Senate, she is a hands-on advocate for what she believes in. Her future is bright with opportunities and more fighting for a more equitable and inclusive college experience on behalf of the rest of our year.
Her fashion sense and experience blend together to define Kriese as an approachable go-getter with the intent to amplify all Smithies’ voices. Her confidence and drive is what we need right now. She is able to keep up with what’s trending in clothes and stay informed about what matters.
She is addressing institutionalized issues one blazer at a time and using her privilege for the benefit of those who need it. She aims to collaborate with others and make a tangible impact, both in and out of Smith’s community. Kriese is doing what millions of people across the country have done for years through protests and events, and acknowledges her place in society while striving to do the right thing and the best she can.
More photos from our shoot, arranged on Canva:
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