Malia Marbury, 20, is a junior at Alabama State University. The Birmingham native, who graduated from Minor High School, is majoring in Business Marketing. After graduation, she aspires to be a marketing executive with Gap Inc. This is one busy girl; in addition to her studies, Malia is a third-year cheerleader for the Hornets and is also active in the SGA Event Committee, Student Government Association and the American Marketing Association. We caught up in the midst of Magic City Classic festivities to talk style.

How would you describe your sense of style? I’m not too flashy; I like things that are simple but cute.

Do you dress up or dress down for class? I dress up. [A typical outfit] is business attire: a black skirt and button-down, with baby heels. We can’t wear four-inch or higher heels in the business department, so maybe a 3-inch heel. In between classes I wear flats.

What are some of the major fall trends you’re wearing? Brown boots, and I like colored pants and jeans – green or orange – with a button down and a scarf.

What’s your go-to outfit? If I’m going out, a go-to outfit would be some cute leggings and a cute blouse. [Malia emphasized that choosing leggings that fit properly and are well-made is key.]

What are your favorite places to shop? Lotus Boutique, Francesca’s, Old Navy and Target

How do you balance school with all your other activities and still maintain a social life? It’s hard – I’m taking 18 hours and we travel almost every other weekend. But it’s all a matter of time management and being mature. If there’s a party coming up but I have homework, my homework comes first. When I receive an assignment I try do it right away.

Who has been a major influence on your sense of style? Dayira Jones (@dayybella on Instagram); she’s really big in Atlanta for doing promotions and marketing seminars. She’s classy but professional; she wears up-to-date styles but she doesn’t make them look cheap.

What I love about Malia’s sense of style is it’s modest without being dowdy, and she has such a ladylike demeanor! We wish her every success at ASU and beyond.

Images via Malia Marbury

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Know someone who has an amazing sense of style? Nominate him or her for our next First Person Fabulous by emailing Alexis (alexis@samechicdifferentday.com)!