'Cloak kids' inspire spellbinding self-expression

Eastern's latest fashion trend, cloaks, has been traced back to its roots in two hooded trendsetters. Seniors Steph Davies and Zack Banning, better known across campus as the "cloak kids," can be spotted moving about campus and have redefined what it means to stand out in college.

The "cloak kids" have acquired a reputation on campus both for their striking fashion statements and their approachability. In addition to their wardrobe choices, both "cloak kids" are avid cosplayers, practitioners of witchcraft and "Dungeons and Dragons" players. Their common interests were discovered when Banning initially opted to wear the cloak shortly after meeting Davies.

"I saw Steph wearing a cloak last year, and I'd wanted one myself for ages, so I went up to them and asked about it," said Banning. "After that, I got one, and it's become my armor in more ways than one because it helps with social anxiety. It's like putting on a shield."

According to Davies, who wears their cloak "purely for aesthetic reasons," the cloak serves as a more ergonomic alternative to regular coats in addition to a confidence booster.

"I started dressing goth last year, and I realized how much I loved it. Puffy jackets just ruin the vibe," said Davies. "It also looks really cool when it flows out as I walk in windy weather."

Banning concurred that their cloaks aren't only for fashion; they offer practical benefits too. "In the rain, the water just rolls off," they said. "And even in the summer, it surprisingly keeps me cool by blocking the sun."

Both "cloak kids" concluded that their cloaks have sparked much curiosity from both their peers and passersby. "People yell 'Darth Vader!' or 'Abracadabra!' out of their car windows," Banning said. "It's always positive and makes us feel like campus celebrities."

Davies added: "Random children in public love talking to us about our cloaks. They stare, and I'll wave and smile, and they're not even scared. We always smile and wave, and I've even had kids ask if we're 'goth' or even 'evil,' which is always funny."

The pair has also worked to demystify their appearance, taking to campus social media platform Fizz to build rapport with classmates. "I wanted people to know we're friendly and not reclusive," Banning said. "The support has been amazing; people are so nice, and it's honestly boosted our confidence."

The "cloak kids" have encouraged many on campus to start expressing themselves, advising others not to be afraid to stand out. "If someone told me they were thinking about wearing a cloak, I'd tell them to not hesitate and just do it," Davies said. "It gives you the freedom to experiment with your style and truly be yourself."