"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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"Style and prestige are two different things."

[gender.female]

[location.canada]

Where are some of your favorite places to purchase jewelry?

"One particular store I love is Ardene’s (it's a jewelry store). However, I would say my jewelry is a mixture of different stores. I'm not someone who heads specifically to certain stores to purchase jewelry. I just land on great pieces while I'm looking around."

How important is price when shopping for clothing?

"It has to be something that I can afford. Why buy a $300.00 dress when I can get six pieces for the same price? I'm not someone who is particularly interested in having designer brands, just because it is Louis Vuitton. Style and prestige are two different things."

How do you decrease the pain associated with wearing high heels?

"Oh my, no remedies... Beauty is PAIN, just have to endure it!"

What colors inspire you?

"Bold colors."

Does hair play a role in your sartorial selections?

“Definitely. Hair is a woman's crowning glory.”

Anything Else?

“My blog: http://barbiousfashionblog.blogspot.com/ .”

Sporting a superb geometric plum and ivory print blouse, today’s beautiful nista understands how to make patterns work in her wardrobe.

Notice how the rest of her outfit is comprised of neutral hues –wheat shorts, charcoal shoes, and a cognac bag. Since, the bold and vivid top is doing all of the work, she tempered it with subtle, yet elegant accessories. Every nista knows balance is one of the cardinal rules of fashion. Generally, head to toe print is not only unflattering but tawdry.

Also, when wearing a patterned top, keeping the jewelry minimal is best. No necklace is needed in this instance. A chic and simple bracelet or ring will do. Our exquisite nista’s chocolate globe earrings add a charming and casual touch.

Still not convinced you can make it work? Start off slow. Don a fabulous leopard print flat, grab a vintage floral handbag, or drape on a plaid scarf before hitting the office.

Do you like prints?
What is your favorite print?
How do you wear prints?

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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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