Now that you’ve started to look at your surroundings with a different perspective, it’s time to go out and really absorb all the inspiration these places have to offer. Pack a snack/lunch, some parking money and maybe some money for admission (for the museums). Also bring your sketchbook and pencils.

Do you have a few free hours to get lost? Well, clear some time on your planner and go out! Here are some places you can go to get inspiration:

·Library-

I love this one. I used to visit the LAPL (Los Angeles Public Library) all the time for inspiration. They have a “resources” section that you can borrow books in the library but can’t take home. It was a wealth of knowledge with tons of old books that are impossible to find now. Go see if your library has any fashion or history books.

·History Books & Magazines-

History books accidentally show you the fashion of the era without realizing it. Fashion is a thread through the ages and you’ll find some good pictures in these books.

·Department Stores-

These are fun. I’m not talking Target and Walmart, go to Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and others like that. You should feel totally underdressed, that’s how you know you’re in the right place. As we’ll learn later, trends have cycles but they start at these shops and then filter down.

·Buildings-

See my notes on the previous page about exploring the city. If you don’t live in the city, then you need to drive there to enjoy this resource. Old and new buildings have been inspiring fashion designers for a long time.

·Magazines-

Looking for some new magazines to subscribe to? Get a subscription to Vogue, InStyle, Allure, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Marie Claire, Redbook, and Essence.

·Public Events-

• Go to the mall!
• Check out a music concert
• Visit Coachella
• Do a Color Run
• Go to a sports event
• Public events are any places that you could see a whole bunch of people with different fashion senses at the same time. You’re practically guaranteed to get inspo at these. And get over your fear of people watching. Fashion Designers do their fair share of staring at people’s clothes and hair. It’s how we get ideas.

·Museums-

These are fun, but don’t go with a group. Take maybe one friend that can take it seriously. Museums are filled with beautiful paintings, sculptures, tapestries and other items. Speaking from experience, it’s hard to get inspo when you have a group of friends goofing off and you’re trying to go along with them. They also rush you through the sections because they get bored easily. I’ve blocked off half of my day to go and explore the Getty before. It’s amazing. The exhibits are dripping with inspiration. It’s a well-kept secret we use.

·Universities-

Universities have a combination of some of the previous categories. You can find an art exhibit, library, magazines, old building and public events at them. Just be sure you check out their visitor policy before you go. But I’m sure a quick little call to “information” would help you find more places you can visit as you gather inspiration.