"The real you is far better than the fake somebody else."

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

Favorite color combinations?

"I adore black with anything. All black everything preferably. As far as colors, I typically go with looks that are mismatched. I feel as though matching limits creativity in many ways. Blue is also one of my favorite colors."

What advice would you give to someone wanting to be more fashionable?

"Never put yourself in a box! More often than not, people are afraid to be themselves –for fear of being judged. Those who are afraid of being judged just go along with the trends, which is such a horrible idea. You can never be an individual if you worry about what others think of your style all of the time. Most importantly, do your own thing! Nothing is worse than copying another individual's style. Style comes from within. Never attempt to live another person's life on the exterior. That really pains my soul. The real you is far better than the fake somebody else."

What stores do you wish were in your town?

"H&M, American Apparel (just for quality, plain t-shirts, hoodies, and tights/leggings), and more VINTAGE STORES. I love vintage shopping with a bunch of my heart and my current town only has a few to offer. I honestly don't do too much shopping in stores, unless I’m grabbing a pair of jeans; and there is a Nordstrom’s nearby to handle that for me."

Describe your personal style philosophy?

"I don't necessarily have a philosophy for my personal style. I'm human. I change. As I change and transition, so does my style. Although my style changes and transitions there will never be a point in time where someone would look at me and say ‘That's unlike Rosco.’ People that know me, understand me."

Anything else?

"What should readers know about me? Follow me and Lia Day's blog, Ill Advised Nonconformist. Also, if anyone needs an image consultant/personal stylist or an artist to create a wonderful piece of work, hit me up at spearsro@gmail.com OR twitter.com/RoscoSpears."

Our lovely nista is an explosion of color in her first ensemble. Kicking it off with a basic carrot tank top, she keeps it comfortable and casual for the season. Contrasting her unadorned shirt with a sleek hot pink and sable hounds tooth patterned scarf adds attitude and texture to her upper half. Below the waist, this nista’s delicious lemon tulle skirt is catwalk-inspired but surprisingly wearable; while her violet fishnet tights add a gutsy and spirited touch to her vivid look. Completing this multihued outfit with indigo and ivory low top sneakers provide an androgynous touch to this uniquely feminine ensemble.

The rainbow of style continues with this beautiful nista’s second wardrobe selection. A charming crimson varsity jacket with contrasting black sleeves is a perfect nod to the enduring school girl look. Teaming this collegiate inspired garment up with a form fitting ebony shirt makes for the ideal foundation when going for a chic layered ensemble. Not to be missed are the checkered pattern on her mustard and black tights, which take this everyday style choice into more adventurous terrain. Rounding out this colorful get up are sneakers inspired by the classic board game, Monopoly –adding a playful and unconventional twist to her footwear.

Not sold on a multihued ensemble? Our gorgeous nista’s final look might convince you otherwise. Her cute oat jacket is perfect for wearing to work; whereas those cut off denim shorts are a great relaxed counterpart to that professional top. She keeps it chic during worrisome weather with her delightful kelly green scarf and can’t miss salmon tights. Finishing her look with a ruby cross body bag lets us know she’s ready for business!

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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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"...I'm never satisfied with clothes that aren't personalized.”

[gender.male]

[location.south africa]

How many pieces of clothing do you own?

"A lot of jeans, pants, shorts, vests, jackets and shoes; two cupboards full!"

What are your beauty secrets?

"I never leave my apartment without sunscreen. Also, always moisturize and exfoliate no matter what. I learned to alter my own clothes, since I'm never satisfied with clothes that aren't personalized."

Do you read fashion magazines?

"Yes. Vogue of course. W, Vanity Fair, Men's Vogue, GQ, Dazed. Vogue and Vanity Fair are my favorites."

Do you come from a stylish family?

"My mom has always been a vintage girl. The rest of my family is very much into fashion, in their own way."

Anything Else?

"I starred alongside Whoopi Goldberg in Sarafina when I was four, so I'm a child star in South Africa (not quite but it was a great experience). Film, TV, music, writing, and performing are my other interests. I edit and write for a film website in South Africa, http://www.thecallsheet.co.za/. My documentary (currently in post-production) on Nobel Peace Prize nominee and AIDS activist Zackie Achmat will air on SABC 2 and will also be featured on the website soon. Check out my modeling profile on http://www.modelbase.co.za/ and comment on my pics, www.modelbase.co.za/portfolio_15151.html. Also visit my MySpace page, www.myspace.com/siyasalay."

In America, the first Monday of September marks Labor Day, a tranquil holiday signifying endings, specifically the end of summer and for the style conscious –the end of wearing white. Traditional U.S. fashion etiquette dictates the latter rule primarily due to the fact garments of this pale hue, in addition to being easily soiled are frequently made of lighter fabrics unsuitable for blistery weather.

Over the years, this voguish decree waned considerably. Chic white ankle boots, pearl V-neck blouses, and ivory princess cut coats are common winter wardrobe staples. Take a cue from today’s handsome stylisto, this light hue is appropriate any time of year.

How to wear white post-Labor Day
A great way to continue wearing white during the cooler months is to sport a classic pair of jeans. Our amazing nisto chose denim of the bleached variety to compliment his look, but whatever you select; there are several hard fast style rules to consider.

Since ivory denim is not as forgiving as its colorful cousins, the correct size is essential to any outfit; the goal is to deemphasize lumps, bumps and other physical imperfections. Length is also an important factor. White jeans should hover freely around the ankle –not scrunched like legwarmers. Check out our nisto’s pants; he is wearing skinny jeans to compliment his slender silhouette; also note the size –long, but not too long.

Given that white is a neutral shade; the sartorial possibilities of colorless jeans are endless. Today’s nisto chose a stunning jewel tone mesh shirt and a rocker chic inspired charcoal jacket to compliment his denims. The array of gold chains, mauve patent leather sneakers, and retro sun shades further add to his rebel look. This season, try your blanch jeans with a sweet pair of black suede boots or a cozy cashmere sweater.

Are you wearing white after Labor Day?

How did you celebrate the holiday?

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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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