"I am not a fan of Rihanna's hair but her personal style is like a ready-to-wear version of what Lady GaGa does."

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

How do you organize your closet?

"I have two closets, one for my casual/daywear pieces and one for my business/evening wear. I organize each closet in a backwards layering order: outerwear/jackets, cardigans/vests, dresses, tops, skirts/trousers, and then belts. I also organize each section in color order with neutrals such as black, gray, brown, and white first; then sections in order of the rainbow."

Stores you wish were in your town?

"I wish there was an H&M, Zara, TopShop, ReDress, and better thrift stores. It's so hard to find plus sizes in my local thrift shops, so I wish there was a specialized one in my town. Oh, and a Forever 21 that has a Faith 21 in the store."

Best-dressed celebrities?

"Rihanna, Keri Hilson, 70s and 80s Diana Ross, 80s and 90s Madonna, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Lady GaGa and Kim Kardashian are on my best dressed list. All of these entertainers have signature looks but are not afraid to try new things. Keri Hilson and Rihanna are very much into the rocker inspired looks, which doesn't seem forced. I am not a fan of Rihanna's hair but her personal style is like a ready-to-wear version of what Lady GaGa does. Diana Ross in the 70s and 80s was very bohemian glam, with the sparkles and big hair. She is still extremely gorgeous and maintains the same appeal today through her daughter Tracy Ellis Ross. I am a huge fan of Marilyn Monroe because she defined that sexy Hollywood glamour, while Audrey Hepburn defined classic Hollywood style. I also love the creativity of Madonna from the 80s and 90s because she had fun with her looks and dared to be different. Lady GaGa gets my vote because she's like the Madonna cone bra look on acid. She is so avant-garde and it's almost like looking at a fantasy when she's on and off stage. Kim Kardashian embraces her curves, whether it's in a pair of jeans and a t-shirt or a Herve Leger dress. She embodies a slight minimalist look but with stand out accessories."

What are your favorite stores to find bargains?

"I love going to little teen stores, such as Wet Seal, Body Shop, and Max Rave for simple t-shirts. I also shop at Charlotte Russe and Forever 21 for more trendy items. However, the best bargains are in thrift stores, such as Goodwill. I go to this one in my town; it's sponsored by CASA, which stands for Community Action Stops Abuse. It's a thrift store that uses its revenue to support the organization. I've found great items, such as blazers and shorts, for like $6.00. Also, I found two cute purses for $6.00 and $4.00. I also get my costume and trendy jewelry from places like Girlprops.com and random wholesale jewelry stores."

What are some styles you would like to wear but haven’t yet?

"I would love to wear wedge closed-toe booties in black and/or leopard print, rompers, harem pants, and faux fur jackets. Lately, I've really been into the shorts and tights look again for fall/winter too. I so desperately have been on the search for a pair of classic Levis with a straight leg in my size to wear cuffed and eventually turn into shorts………maybe."

Anything else?

"I am currently training to become a personal shopper/personal stylist. I am hoping to intern for a willing company and work my way up. For now, I'm still a full time student. I recently completed a 2-day crash course in the business side of Fashion Styling at a seminar called The School of Style with wardrobe stylist Luke Storey (from LA). Also, I am working on updating my blog, Love, Fashion, and Finding Me. Thanks again for the interview opportunity!"

Blazers – a fashion staple that stands the test of time

Blazers are a fashion staple that continually stands the test of time. An essential piece of apparel in the modern woman’s wardrobe, these must have jackets keep it clean and sleek when worn to the office, singlehandedly top off casual weekend wear, and see you through the unpredictable transitional weather of
late summer and early fall. Not sure how to integrate this timeless item into your daily attire? Look no further than today’s lovely nista for some style inspiration.

Feminine from every angle thanks to her structured blazer in a stunning shade of fuchsia, our beautiful nista’s career oriented garment shows she’s ready for business. It’s the ideal versatility piece –taking her from the desk to dinner in a flash. The base of the jacket –a sleek, floral button up shirt is the perfect flirty meets relaxed combo; a cool contrast to the blazer’s professional vibe. Tucking her festive blouse in a pair of rolled up jean shorts of the medium wash variety; this nista is effortlessly casual, since her high waisted denims lend themselves naturally to day wear. To keep the fashion focus on her brightly hued blazer, she opts for monochromatic lower limbs with a fresh pair of black tights and accompanying sable lace up oxfords –giving her legs for miles! Completing the look with an effortlessly modern pewter tote bag and avant-garde, mustard wayfarer sunglasses –could our nista be any more stylish?

Who says blazers must be solid? If you want to make a style statement like our gorgeous nista in her second look, try a jovial jacket that’s sure to add a splash of visual impact. Her beautifully ornate blazer, adorned in chic and vibrant beads of turquoise and magenta is sure to capture your attention. The sophisticated yet slightly bohemian design is truly stunning. Also, certain to light up her evening are a pair of posh cobalt suede pumps –an elegant choice no matter the occasion. To ensure her plush heels and lavish blazer get top billing in the fashion spotlight, our nista opts for an all black foundation, with several silhouette enhancing pieces, including a classic tank top, must have mini skirt, and all purpose leggings. Finally, nothing is complete without her leather clutch in a voguish shade of wine –ideal for an understated look; while her low key sable fedora is an easy way to inject a dose of chic downtown minimalism into the outfit.

The great thing about a blazer is its versatility. Available in a variety of colors, cuts and fabrics, there’s sure to be one out there to suit your sartorial tastes. Go for a hip jacket in an unexpected shade or material, like our nista’s final ensemble. The retro inspired wool blazer featuring several shades of purple, from lilac to violet Our nista’s her graphic t-shirt and vintage denim shorts are sure to put a relaxed spin to her day; while those classic, opaque black tights place her right on the fashion mark. She adds final touches of sophistication with a dazzling pair of black, strappy high heels that appear oh so charming on her feet and a fedora reminiscent of yesteryear.

What are your favorite items to wear with blazers?
What are some of your favorite colors, cuts, and styles?

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"Too many shoes? I'm not sure I understand the question..."

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

What’s your advice for someone trying to define their style?

"It's tempting to want to define things because that makes it easy to categorize, but I don't think it's necessary to ‘define’ your style. I wear lots of things that don't necessarily fit into a certain definition (rock chic, femme, etc.), so my advice is to wear whatever you like whenever you like! Having said that, it is helpful to have a clear idea of the type of clothing you tend to be drawn to, so I usually advise people to find images of items they like and look for common themes. Are you attracted to a certain silhouette or color or print? Figure that out and keep those things in mind when shopping or getting dressed.”

Tell us about an ensemble you regret wearing.

"Hmm...I don't really regret wearing any one specific outfit (jams shorts and push-down socks were in style then, okay?), but I usually regret dressing to suit someone else's expectation of the way I should look, or trying to make myself feel better by dressing up--that almost never works.”

Do you ever go out without accessories?

"No! I always wear earrings. I mean always –and a watch. I think the earring thing is due to my mom --she'll change her earrings just to go to bed! The watch is a control issue; I always need to know what time it is, even when I'm running late (approximately 70% of the time).”

What is your personal style philosophy?

"I dress to suit my mood and I always want to feel like what I'm wearing complements and expresses who I am --even if ‘who I am’ evolves and changes regularly. That's my personal style philosophy, too: dress how you feel and you'll always look great!”

How many pairs of shoes do you own?

" I probably own about seventy pairs, including boots and sandals. Too many shoes? I'm not sure I understand the question....”

Anything Else?

"I'm the editor of Style Sample Magazine a magazine by, for, and about fashion bloggers--you should check it out! There's always lots of great information online and in the magazine--fashion, shopping, designers, photography, illustration, blogging advice--I'd love for you to visit!”

Today we will explore one of the signature color combinations in all of fashion –black and white. Earlier we discussed wearing this duo separately here and here, now it’s time to turn our attention to the myriad of style possibilities unleashed as these two classic hues merge.

In her first look, our lovely nista takes this ultra hot color combo to the next level. Sporting an elegant cream mini dress with contrasting ebony over the knee socks, she’s sure to register on the style radar. Forget those thigh high boots; as this nista shows, towering socks are where it’s at. She rounds out this contrasting color outfit with several chic, multihued accessories. The voluminous coffee shawl draped around her décolleté makes a dramatic sartorial statement, while those adorable cognac ankle strap heels leave an especially memorable impression. Finalizing this get up, the super trendy striped belt effortlessly cinches her waist and the espresso clutch is just right for a romantic evening with the beau.

Our beautiful nista’s second pick proves exclusively wearing this opposing color couple above the waist still gives oodles of panache. Her vertical striped black and white tank is a great addition to any wardrobe. Wear it for an understated look on a muggy day like this nista or vogue it out in fabulous layers on a crisp autumn morning. Merging the banded shirt with a dazzling high waisted flower-patterned skirt is sure to make any woman feel extra glamorous. Completing this ensemble, we spy strappy black heels –fashionable for any occasion and a sensational oversized belt, which looks right day or night.

In her final ensemble, this nista demonstrates black and white make a powerful visual statement. Sporting a cropped ivory blazer equip with exaggerated shoulders reminiscent of another era, she tempers it with an urbane pair of sable pencil pants. Continuing the theme of contrast echoed throughout this look, the slim fitting trousers beautifully offset her inflated upper sleeves; as the slender two-tone belt not only adds definition to her figure, but also reinforces the devastatingly sharp color scheme. Topping everything off with a pair of snakeskin stilettos, this winning combination will seamlessly take her from the desk to dinner.

Do you enjoy pairing black and white?
What are your favorite color combinations?

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“One can pretty much pull off anything as long as they have the confidence to back it up.”

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

When did your unique style start to develop?

"About three years ago when I went to a new school, I decided I wanted a change. I started putting things together differently and I stopped over-matching. The artists I started listening to, like M.I.A., definitely made an impact. When I first started developing my style, I was super inspired by the 80's. I loved big hair (still do), bright colors, Vans, and piled-on jewelry. Now, as I am getting older, I am approaching style at different angles. I still love the fun 80's, but I want to dress up a little more. I don't mind wearing black or grey with pops of color. A couple of years ago, I thought that wearing the color black didn't fit me or that I wouldn't stand out. I now know that one can pretty much pull off anything as long as they have the confidence to back it up.”

Anything in your closet you regret buying?

"I can't say that I do. When I buy things and feel regret right after I leave the store, I just think to myself, ‘I'll make it work, there must be a reason I bought it.’ More often than not, I regret NOT buying things.”

Most fashionable show on television?

"I love Project Runway! I always find myself making things or putting together outfits as they are doing the challenges. Other than that, the only current show about fashion that I watch is How Do I Look on The Style Network. Ironically, that's a show about people with not so great fashion gaining a better sense of style. There's nothing like a great transformation. The host, Jeannie Mai has cool style and awesome black hair with an undertone of blue! To be completely honest, old sitcoms like A Different World and The Cosby Show (one of my style inspirations, the character Denise Huxtable, was on both) suit my taste just fine.”

“If I don’t know what to wear I end up wearing ____________.”

"Black skinny jeans from Urban Outfitters, a simple tee, any of my various blazers or cardigans, Doc Martens, and a piece of jewelry; my safety pin necklace or my armor style ring are perfect for outfits that are thrown together in a short amount of time.”

How do you feel about mixing black and brown?

"Black and brown can be an interesting combo. I think that it can easily be pulled off in a mixed prints look. For anyone that is not sure of putting the two together, I say that it is safest to start with a leopard or cheetah prints. It's a fool-proof way to sneak both in. After that, you can add as much or as little black and brown as you want!”

Anything Else?

"More of my style is featured at my Chictopia.com account, Fierceloverock and my Weardrobe account, Pursuit of Fashion. I have a Tumblr, Things We Love in Life, but it's a place for inspirations, not necessarily a personal style blog.”

What to Wear to a Fashion Show

Of course, we could not let one of the most stylish times of the year -New York Fashion Week, slip by without mention. Whether you are scheduled to attend some of the closing festivities or patiently waiting for next season’s celebration, we’re here to help refine your sartorial choices.


Outfit
Remember YOU are not sashaying down the runway, so don’t feel the need to sport an haute couture masterpiece. Opt for a timeless and sophisticated look. Dresses are an easy way to elegance; don one in a bold color like carrot and you’ll be a style standout just like our nista. Topping her button up garment off with a leopard patterned bow offers a taste of spice; as the band of ivory necklaces casually keep it all together.

On the other hand, if you crave chic layers, experiment with a funky blazer. By wearing a head turning cheetah print stunner for her second look, she breathes new life into an enduring wardrobe staple. Tempering the bold jacket with another closet essential –the fresh ivory oxford shirt and a coquettish black skirt, she’s ready to hobnob with the fashion elite.

Shoes

Fashion shows are a prime time to throw on your higher than thou stilettos. After all, those tooties will receive a much needed break as you sit with all of the glitterati drooling over the must haves of next season. Of course, if flats are your favorite, then exuding a powerful fashion statement is achievable like today’s nista. Those charming coffee colored strap sandals perfectly harmonize with her carroty hued dress in the first photo; while her chic sable flats in the second sartorial selection aid in completing this urbane ensemble.

Bag
Of course, a chic bag fully equip with your phone will satisfy the urge to text your bestie after eyeing all those jaw dropping gowns storming the runway. Both of our nista’s selections –the petite Louis Vuitton chocolate clutch and that slinky scarlet shoulder bag, provide loads of fashion and function under the star studded tents. Grab whatever tickles your fancy, but leave the knock offs in the closet. Try upping the style quotient with a fab designer handbag in a pulsating hue –it’s sure to leave voguish tongues wagging.

Did you attend any NYFW activities?

Did you attend FNO in your town?

What did you wear?

Who had the best collection so far?

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"I avoid cracks in the pavement at all times."

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

How did you get interested in fashion?

"My interest in fashion began in eighth grade when everyone but me read magazines like, Vogue and Teen Vogue. After that I got subscriptions to nearly every fashion magazine I could afford. By ninth grade, I really got into fashion and I signed up for Chictopia.com as soon as it opened! From there, my style has changed and matured!"

How do you feel about knockoffs?

"Knockoffs that are TOTALLY obvious like a Dooney & Burke purse that has D&V instead of D&B bother me. I actually used to have one of those a long time ago.”

What films or television shows inspire your style?

"I'm actually really bad at getting inspiration from TV and movies. I'm not a movie person. But I do love the movie Pretty Woman. It fuels my obsession with the nineties."

How careful are you with clothes?

"I think I'm about as careful with my clothes just as much as any girl would be. While walking in spike heels, I avoid cracks in the pavement at all times. I only wash my jeans or pants after I wear them a couple of times."

How long does it take you to get ready?

"I spend way too much time getting dressed mainly because I don't pick out my clothes the night before. While I'm trying stuff on, I'm surfing through inspiration on lookbook.nu and Chictopia.com. It's a bad habit. The days I prepare my outfit the night before go great most of time -or I just end up changing everything I start with; and then there's my hair...which takes forever."

Anything Else?

"Thank you so much! That was fun!"
Check her out at:
je suis tiana b.

Searching the racks of your ever so modest closet for a chic piece that never goes out of style AND matches everything? Well, look no further than those lovely hues in the neutral clan. That overlooked grey pea coat, forgotten white silk scarf, neglected black wide leg pants, and castaway brown ruffled blouse are all dripping with oodles of fashion potential. With her two show stopping ensembles, today’s stunning nista helps us understand how to effortlessly master the art of combining neutrals.

How to Wear Neutrals From Head to Toe
By sporting an oxford shirt and fanciful skirt in her initial look, she proves ivory and sky blue are simply divine together. Also, note how the buttons of her blouse harmonize with her skirt. In the sartorial world details are where the magic happens. Shimmering belt buckles, handbag hardware, handy zippers and other notions provide overlooked opportunities to make an outfit stand out from the crowd.

Contrasting colors make a powerful fashion statement. Of course, all bona fide fashionistas understand this technique –our stylish lady is no exception. That’s why she slips on those too cute ebony tights to pop against her snow hued skirt. When it comes to neutrals, experiment with a paler hue like pearl and cream against a rich navy or deep chocolate for dramatic effect. Our nista’s camel colored brim diva hat offers a hint of glamour and excitement; while her dapper black blazer and sleek cognac belt perfectly tie everything together. As you can see, she stylishly turns that pesky myth of the dull and boring all neutral outfit on its ugly head.

In a previous post, we discussed the many ways to wear the color sable in order to create an air of sophistication. Today, our beautiful nista furthers that conversation. The epitome of classic chic in her second look, she sports super stylish black apparel with slits of ivory –perfect for a day at the office. The black and white horizontal striped sweater tank makes a striking visual statement; while her must have ebony heels and timeless pencil skirt aptly highlight her slender silhouette. By throwing on an urbane leather jacket for those chilly mornings, she’s ready to take on the world.

Committed to bold colors, so all neutral attire not your style? Experiment with a funky ebony sandal or perhaps a camel fedora to tone down a vivid outfit while adding a bit of structure.

Do you like to wear neutral colors?
What are your favorite neutral shades?

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"Kudos to all who can pull this look off!"

[gender.female]

[location.canada]

How did you get interested in fashion?

"To be honest, I’ve always been interested in fashion. I remember watching Naomi Campbell (you know back then, everything she touched was gold) on TV when I was younger, walking down the runway in all her to-die-for outfits! But I think it really started during my transitioning stage from teenager to young adult! I find that my style has evolved greatly and includes more trendy and classic/chic pieces. However I've become even more interested thanks to the world of bloggers. I draw inspiration from them all, especially Paris fashionistas; they know how to swag it out!"

How do you balance being fashionably and financially chic?

"I believe that you can be chic on just about any budget! My closet is twenty percent thrifted, forty percent classic, forty trendy (just a breakdown on how I spend my money). I buy what I like; sometimes it’s about quality and sometimes it’s just because I like it and WANT it! For me I will splurge on a bag or a shoe, NEVER clothes! Trends go in and out, so at the end of the day it's always what I like (even if I’m trendy as hell)! You don’t have to splurge to look good but you must admit it feels good when it’s something you’re madly in love with, (I've had those guilty pleasures before)!"

Which celebrity should start a fashion line?

"That’s a tough one! I prefer street style more than celeb style only because you get to see how other people put their personalities into their every day looks (raw and unedited fashion) whereas celebs have their own stylist! So it’s not really a reflection of them even if they do look good in half the stuff they wear! But to answer the question, I’d say it boils down to these two fashionistas: Gwyneth Paltrow and my girl Rihanna! Gwyneth, for her amazing shoe game and effortless chic looks and Rihanna, the trendy girl who breaks all the rules! Girly with a bit of edge – I love that combo!"

What is something you would never wear?

"SOCKS and SHOES! Not because I don’t like it; I actually adore the look, it reminds me of childhood. But I can’t seem to pull it off. I’ve played around with many looks and I’m just not feeling it! I prefer when other people wear it, that way I can admire it on them! Kudos to all who can pull this look off!"

Last fashion item you returned?

"Hmmmmm? I returned an H&M 'Chanel inspired' cropped blazer because I saw a better version at Zara!"

Anything Else?

"Look out for a few upcoming projects from moi. I don’t want to spill the beans, but I will be creating my own customized t-shirts soon (really cool stuff) and a few giveaways, so look out for that on my fashion blog, Shop Now Save Later! My biggest wish is to be backstage at Paris Fashion Week as the models personal hairstylist (since I am a hairstylist) and kicking back in the front row drooling over all the must have collections on the catwalk!"

2 Must Have Jackets for Fall

Denim jacket
The foundation of our adorable stylista’s first wardrobe pick is her sleek denim jacket in a light wash. This versatile garment seamlessly harmonizes with a variety of looks. In this instance, she teams it up with a coquettish floral skirt, fitted pewter tank top, and camel heels –creating an innocent and playful vibe. Instead of a sarong and a basic tee, link your jean jacket up with a cool pair of khaki pants and a nubby sweater for those chilly mornings or perhaps a slinky dress and ankle boots for lunch with the boyfriend. Whatever you choose, keep in mind denim on denim is passé; so leave those low rise jeans in the closet.

Blazer
Blazers are one of the most resourceful items in any woman’s wardrobe. This essential piece is perfect for the annual office party in December, a fun night out on the town in May, or any other fashionable occasion throughout the year. Making it work takes only a few voguish items above and below the belt.

As our stylista demonstrates in the second ensemble, blazers can offer structure while highlighting a svelte silhouette. The contouring of her ebony jacket beautifully contrasts with the rocker chic tone of those ripped ivory denim jeans and dark aviator sunglasses; while her black bustier and studded lapel add a funky and feminine flair. The rebel panache of this look is in direct contrast to her final sartorial pick –which exudes a charmingly casual aura. Donning a blazer in that remarkable shade of pink lends a much needed womanly touch to this traditionally male garment. The looser cut of her jacket and relaxed fit rolled up denims are the epitome of chic yet comfortable.

What do you like to wear with denim jackets?

What do you like to wear with blazers?

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Some days, I have several outfit changes just because my mood changes....

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

Where do you reside?

"I live in the U.S., in a small city in Michigan. I'm originally from Ohio but go to school for graphic design and photography here in Michigan."

When did your unique style start to develop?

"My style started to develop a little over 2 years ago when I first started thrifting. My sister and I used to go several times a week and after a while the things I started looking for began to change. I used to go the thrift store looking for a pair of "black pants" or a "white sweater" and over time I realized all the gems I was missing out on were unique pieces that were slightly quirky and a bit outrageous. I started buying items like these and realized how much they inspire me. My style further evolved when I started to see the way I dress as another form of self-expression. Some days, I have several outfit changes just because my mood changes throughout the day. Some days certain colors and proportions just feel right!

This turning point in my style occurred right about the time I began to start taking my photography seriously and developing my own style of art. I think often times my whole style aesthetic, taste in photography, and graphic design work all resemble each other in the sense of being slightly quirky and using similar color choices."

Fashion rule you love to break?

"A fashion rule I love to break is buying and wearing clothes that aren't my size. Often times I love purchasing things a size or two too big and being able to swim in it. Overblown proportions are something that people often miss out on because they are usually so caught up on fit. While the fit is important, there's a whole other realm of possibilities that come with clothes that aren't the correct size. I generally think this is more effective if something large is worm with some article of clothing that is fitted and retains some shape.

Another fashion rule that I tend to break is combining a mass amount of colors and prints into one look. Sometimes I'm not really concerned if they technically "go together" but it's more based on the mood I'm trying to convey. Some days I'm feeling a bit wacky and energized and wearing lots of prints/colors portrays that well visually."

Do you enjoy the looks and attention that come with standing out in the crowd?

"It's always a love-hate relationship between the attention I receive when it comes to my attire. In bigger cities, I don't get much attention but my school is located in a small city in Michigan that isn't exactly known for its extreme class, so the stares come in hoards. I enjoy it because it's a sign that I differ from the average Jane walking around in the supermarket; yet at the same time I wish I wasn't the only one in this area who seems to care about their clothing style in a more creative fashion. It's nice though, I get a lot of smiles and compliments which can boost your day a bit."

Can you recall the least amount of money you spent on something that was really a true gem?

"Most of my clothes I get from Goodwill, which means there are quitea few gems I've found that I bought for basically nothing. Probably the latest gem I've purchased was a silk floral dress from a vintagestore owned by a friend. I ended up only paying $6 for it because Iknow the owner; otherwise it would have been a little out of my poorcollege student budget. The dress just fits so beautifully on thefigure. It drapes and hangs in all the right places. Plus, anytime I wear it, it makes me excited for spring."

Anything Else?

I hope new readers will check out my blog http://11.acesaura.com/ and be on the look out for a new site of mine where I'll incorporatemy own poetry and photography. It should be up within the next monthor so. I'm extremely excited about it! I'm quite a fan of written language and I'm pumped to share mine with the world for the first time. I'll just leave you with a quote by my favorite photographer that makes me think. It's said in the context of photography but can be applied to all other applications of art and style:

“To say a photographer has a vision is to say the photographer has something unique to say to about the world. Why do some photographers have something unique to say, when so many others just shoot pictures that are general and lacking vision? Most people would say it has to do with talent. Maybe. But maybe not. Maybe it has nothing to do with talent. Maybe it has to do with the ability to express one’s feelings. The person who presents a strong vision has figured out a way to express his or her feelings, while others are struggling to do that. Talent, then, becomes not so much artistic talent, though that may be a good part of it, but rather emotional talent.”- Rodney Smith.

This charming nista exemplifies how a few simple modifications can provide instant drama to any outfit.

In her first look she pairs a basic black shirt and skinny cuffed jeans – two articles of clothing leaning more towards the common rather than colorful side, with a floor length sheer sable cape. The elongated garment adds a quick punch of panache to her overall persona; while her delicious two toned wedges and classic belt further compliment the ensemble.

For our nista’s second sartorial selection she dons a traditional black blazer with unique and fashionable flair. The gold studs on the jacket’s trim immediately catch your eye. Teamed with a white t-shirt and the proverbial denim jeans, she comfortably transforms fundamental wardrobe staples into a head turning masterpiece.

How do you add drama to your outfits?

How do you deal with the attention received from your daily attire?

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"Style is not even a word to me."

[gender.male]

[location.united states]

What is your favorite fashion era?

"My favorite fashion era would have to be the 1980's. I love the bold colors and outrageous hairstyles. Most of what I wear now is a mixture of the oldies and the futuristic. Will Smith and Michael Jackson are definitely my icons of style; very goofy and odd but I love it."

How do you decide what to wear each day?

"Before I go to bed, I always have an idea of what I want to wear the next day. It's usually based on my mood. I wear colors based on how I feel. I usually don’t think too much about it when I wake up. I pretty much just throw on the first thing I see based on my preconceived notions."

What would you wear to your own wedding?

"Wow. I actually don't plan on getting married; at least not the traditional way. I like to wear the opposite of what an event requires. For example, I wore black jeans to my prom! So, I will probably wear a jean jacket, tuxedo shirt, pink bow tie, black skinny jeans, and Fusion Kevlar sneakers."

What is your personal style philosophy?

"Style is not even a word to me. Who am I to define it for anyone? I don’t even consider myself stylish. Look in the mirror and tell yourself you are beautiful, because if you don’t no one else will. I made that up in high school and I have followed it ever since."

A man who is not afraid to play with bright colors! How refreshing. As this nisto demonstrates, his style cannot be put into a box. A fusion of prep, sporty, and funky with a splash of vivid hues, he is sure to turn heads.

The dusty grey vest sets the tone for the opening outfit; very urbane and sophisticated –an ideal combo for a gentleman’s first day of school. The vibrant crimson tie matched with a pink watch adds a rush of color to an otherwise neutral hued outfit. The chain link bracelet lends a touch of rebel panache, while the sepia sunglasses provide a cool yet casual vibe.

A red bowtie paired with dark wash jeans and white sneakers? Too cute! The silver jacket adds a hint of ruggedness and the crisp ivory belt brings it all together. Overall, grey, white, and navy blue prove to be a winning color combination.

This handsome nisto, always the resourceful one creates a brand new look (outfit 4) using several garments worn in the first photograph. By swapping the red tie for an emerald one and donning a spiffy black hat, while retaining the dark trousers and crisp oxford shirt, he exemplifies the concept of reinvention. Don’t be afraid to shop in your own closet! Mixing and matching pieces always breathes new life into old favorites.

Check him out at the following websites:

http://www.funferekoroye.blogspot.com/

http://www.fashionkinetics.tumblr.com/

http://www.fuckyeahnigeria.tumblr.com/

http://www.dapperlens.shutterchance.com/

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