Fashion is more than just clothes. It is an artistic expression of who you are or hope to be. It is written in a universal language that translates your style which, with one glance, people can understand. And inspiration for style is everywhere. Here on Cape Cod, so many styles and aesthetics give inspiration to talented designers.

Designers such as Kiel James Patrick (KJP), Lilly Pulitzer and Shep and Ian Murray (founders of Vineyard Vines) have been inspired by Cape Cod’s atmosphere and location. However, none of them are from Cape Cod; they have simply visited. The classic “prep” style can always be found in local Cape stores and these big fashion names have taken inspiration from this classic approach.

Heather Lewis, a self described “casual dressing prep,” loves the sophisticated look and loves to dress in this style.“ I love the classiness of the style and also you almost always look put together… even on your ‘not so hot days,’” Lewis said. Vineyard Vines is one of her favorite brands and she can almost always be found wearing something adorned with the classic pink whale.

Recently a new crop of online supporters of Cape Cod’s “signature” summer preppy style has risen. Whether it be Twitter, Tumblr or Instagram, Cape Cod has its own fan club consisting of Kennedy enthusiasts and classy dressers. Big name brands like KJP and Vineyard Vines allow for preppy dressers to wear the Cape Cod inspired designs wherever they are.

The nautical theme is what Cape Cod is notorious for, but others seek inspiration away from the ocean. Julia Corbett, a senior, is a young fashion lover and aspiring designer who has a different aesthetic.“Cape Cod is great for inspiration, I am just not into that ‘beach’ theme. It’s just been done so many times,” said Corbett. “I get inspired by vintage styles, like lace and Victorian era styles.”

To get her name out and find an outlet for her work, Corbett has created an instagram account purely dedicated to her sketches and fashion projects. Her account, juliannedesigns, updated regularly with her own creations.

Corbett has found her passion and is taking action. “I have loved fashion since seventh grade, but it was until junior year that I decided to turn it into more than just a hobby.” She has an internship with both The Little Beach Gallery in Hyannis and Kathryn Hilderbrand, the owner of Stitched in Mashpee. While working with Hilderbrand, Corbett has attended photoshoots and helped with them which she said has really opened her eyes to what the fashion industry is like.“I want to see my designs on the red carpet…That’s the goal!” Corbett added.

Corbett isn’t the only aspiring designer at Barnstable High School who showcases a different fashion approach. Molly Miles, a sophomore in Fashion Design II, loves to get inspiration from fashion magazines like Vogue, Elle, and Nylon. She uses the clash of styles to her advantage. The high fashion and grunge vibes found in these editorials give inspiration for her own pieces.

“Fashion Design gives me the freedom to really express myself creatively the way I want to,” Miles said. “I like to design edgy and interesting clothes, even though I will probably never wear them. Fashion Design still allows me to have fun by creating them.” The upcoming fashion show will exhibit the varied styles and tastes that Cape Cod truly possesses, more than just the typical preppy stereotype.