This month, we celebrate Tim Lee, an inspiring fashion enthusiast whose unique style has made a mark at NVOT. With a passion for experimenting with clothing and a nod to family heritage, Lee is a true trendsetter in the school’s community.

Lee said, “Towards the end of eighth grade, I started experimenting with more clothes. I’d say really getting into high school is when I experimented most with fashion.” This adventurous spirit has led to a distinctive style that blends comfort and personal expression.

While some students might look to celebrities or influencers for inspiration, Lee finds his muse in a more personal place: “I don’t really have a fashion influence, but if I had to name someone specific, I would say my grandpa. He used to wear, like, really nice vintage Korean clothes.” This familial connection to fashion is reflected in his wardrobe, as he often wears pieces that resonate with his grandpa’s unique style. “[I] look back at a lot of the photos and see that we have a lot of fits that look similar,” he noted, highlighting the bond between generations through clothing.

When it comes to personal favorites, Lee prefers the comfortable yet stylish options of “a nice polo sweatshirt or a quarter neck zip up.” However, he is also not shy about voicing his dislikes. “My least favorite fashion trends are sweatpants and sportswear—just like every day wearing sportswear, I also really, really dislike it.”

Beyond just looking good, Lee hopes his style can make a difference in the way others view fashion. “I really hope that my outfits, maybe not just at school, but outside in public, will help inspire people to just be comfortable wearing what they want, not conforming to what other people wear.” His desire to promote individuality is at the heart of his fashion beliefs, encouraging peers to embrace their unique tastes and styles.

His commitment to authenticity and self-expression serves as a reminder that fashion is not just about trends—

it’s about being true to oneself.