Class of 2025

Meet the Sunnies Class of 2025 — students from communities everywhere, as they share their daily essentials, campus routines, and what keeps them inspired beyond the classroom.

Martina Lebron

Fashion student, London College of Fashion

What does a typical day look like for you?

A non-negotiable start will always be coffee. Some days I’m buried in the library, other days I meet with my friends. The beauty of London is you’re never short of things to do—and at London College of Fashion (LCF), it’s like the whole city is your campus.

How would you describe yourself as a student?

I’m a Virgo rising, so I try to stay organized. I always have a bag filled with everything I need—my laptop, iPad, charger, a few pens, and my Sunnies Flask.

How did the opportunity at JW Anderson come about?

I sent over 80 cold emails at Loewe and JW Anderson. Eventually, one reply landed in my inbox and that’s all it took to change everything.

How do you stay inspired?

Wandering through galleries, flipping through old magazines, or even just people-watching in a new cafe.

What’s your daily essential?

Definitely my Devon glasses with Sun + Screen lens upgrade. They make every outfit look extra chic, plus the lenses adapt to whatever I’m doing whether I’m doing schoolwork or with friends at the park. They just make looking cool feel so effortless.

Pia Bello

Journalism Student, Columbia University

What made you want to take up journalism?

I was stuck in a limbo with my Communications degree, so I tried different paths like Marketing and PR. At the same time, I have always been obsessed with fashion and beauty. In high school, I would spend hours binging Vogue Beauty Secrets videos—still, I never thought that passion could translate into a career. I didn’t have the natural creative eye of a fashion designer, nor the business instincts of a beauty founder. It wasn’t until my English professors encouraged me to pursue writing. After that, I interned at Observer, Cultured Magazine, and L’Officiel USA. I knew I wanted to take my education further so I pursued a master’s program in Journalism at Columbia.

What’s your favorite topic to write about?

I enjoy writing runway reviews during fashion week. It’s not my strongest suit but it’s a lot easier when it comes to some of my favorite houses, like Marc Jacobs, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent. I also love writing about anything related to beauty. I recently worked on a piece rounding up 25 of the most exciting new products in the beauty world!

What’s your favorite part of student life?

Being surrounded by like-minded people who share the same passion for reporting, interviewing people from all walks of life and hearing their stories, struggles, or expertise, and even just finding people who are willing to talk to you to begin with.

Is there a thing or place that boosts your creativity?

Odd answer: LinkedIn. When I’m feeling lazy, I scroll through to see some posts that give me the push to just get up, make my coffee, and start typing.

Cara Leonio

Fashion Management Student, Parsons School of Design

How does being a fashion student help you be a model in any way?

I have a deeper appreciation now for the hard work and passion it takes to produce pieces or collections—not just design but also the operations and planning behind them.

What was your favorite fashion era?

I love the 1970s and 2000s.

How do you usually spend your time outside of school?

My friends and I love a good dinner, weekend drinks and dancing, and park days. We have a weekly TV night, where we watch our round-up of new episodes. I also try to fit a workout three times a week.

Who’s your fashion icon?

Carrie Bradshaw, of course! I also just finished the OC and I love all the outfits on the show.

What do you love most about your course?

Learning about the many facets of fashion and the industry’s advancements toward a more sustainable future.

How do you stay inspired?

I love going on walks when I’m in a rut. Especially when I’m writing my thesis, I found it really helped me to take breaks—whether it’s getting a coffee, a sweet treat, or sitting in the park.