New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

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Student’s bright, sensible clothes exude positive vibes

William Martin/WSN

 

Tisch sophomore Michael “Miki” Torres doesn’t let the gloomy New York City days take over his wardrobe. Usually seen sporting bright colors, “Bill Cosby-esque sweaters” or uniquely designed Converse sneakers, this dramatic writing major is a risk-taker who is fearless in his apparel.

Torres is not hesitant about displaying his collection of Crocs. The pair that started his collection were the red, Target edition, which he received for free at a charity ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“I have four pairs: red, blue, green and yellow, and I’m working on orange and purple pairs,” Torres said. “I even have a pair in leather. Crocs are quirky, comfortable and fun, and that’s why I wear them.”

There is no question that bright color is the most eye-catching aspect of Torres’ closet.

“Wearing bright colors cheers me up and does the same for the people I encounter,” he said. “I love red, purple, orange, yellow, blue and especially lime green.”

Other statement pieces in his closet consist of fancy pants, Mandarin collars and Christmas sweaters.

“I love to pair really opposite things together, like a vintage sweater over a pair of summer short shorts,” Torres said.

Despite his natural sense for style, Torres admits he would rather go to affordable shops that give him the opportunity to spread his positive energy easily.

“I would much prefer to go to an H&M [store] or Forever 21 and get something from there that allows me to express my colorful outlook on life,” he said.

It is this color-powered influence that inspires Torres’ screenplays. He usually incorporates color symbolism into his plays and is currently helping draft a prospective web series called “The Hood Lords” about a Mexican drug cartel.

And his go-to tunes for writing? While Torres can be found listening to electronic-pop, the vast majority of the time he’s listening to chiptunes, sounds made from GameBoy chips or soundtracks from Nintendo games, including Super Mario Bros.

“It’s upbeat, moving forward and conducive to work. It also makes great background music,” Torres said.

In addition to writing, Torres contributes to the Tisch School of the Arts as an arts representative, where he speaks to prospective and newly admitted Tisch students and gives tours of the dramatic writing department. He also volunteers for arts education and youth development nonprofits, such as youth support groups DreamYard and Live Out Loud.

Staying true to his personality and creativity is what motivates Torres’ style.

“For me, style is about knowing yourself and getting back in touch with those childlike impulses to be fun and sometimes even a bit silly.”

 

William Martin/WSN

 

A version of this article appeared in the Tuesday, April 23 print edition. Layla Ilchi is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected].

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    Carrie CourogenApr 23, 2013 at 7:12 pm

    FOUR pairs of Crocs? That’s four pairs too many.

    Reply