BY DESIGN : THE CLASS OF ’95 : Whether they wear denim or leather, flowery sun dresses or baggy overalls, the seniors voted “best dressed” by their peers in high schools across Southern California don’t look to magazines or movie stars to find their style--they make it themselves.

Sarah Smallwood of Tustin is perplexed by her best-dressed title.

“I think dressing nice--not grungy--is important,” the 18-year-old says. “I guess I get compliments on my clothes. I certainly don’t make fashion a priority in my life.”

But even on a day that she’s wearing an outfit she considers “no big deal,” Sarah looks put-together in a cropped denim vest and flirty black and white dress. “I like dresses. I think they’re comfortable, and I like to feel feminine.”

She loves sun dresses, though lately she’s favored short “Brady Bunch” dresses with colored tights.

“I dress the way I feel. It depends on the mood.”

Favorite stores: Judy’s, the Gap, the Limited.

What she really wants now: Guess jelly sandals.

Bargain tips: Always shop around before you buy.

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Among famous fashion plates, Dan Almquist, 18, admires professional athletes because of their flair for double-breasted suits and flashy ties.

The 6-foot-4 varsity basketball player has clean-cut, all-American looks. He maintains his short hair by getting it cut every three weeks. Polo-Ralph Lauren is his favorite label and he lives in his Nikes (he owns four pairs) and Timberland boots. “I like comfort and clothes that look nice, but I’m not overly concerned about appearance.”

Tips: “Buy clothes that work with other items in your closet. You want something that will look good and last a long time.”

Favorite stores: Bullock’s Men’s Store, Nike Town, Polo-Ralph Lauren.

What’s out: Clothing that’s ripped, frayed or sloppy looking.