Not one particular designer or group defines my style exactly. I am inspired by a multitude of designers, events, celebrities, time periods, etc. For example, I absolutely adore Betsey Johnson and her free spirited, funky style. I love the classic and tailored look of Chanel, you feel like royalty when wearing any one piece.  Also, I like to mix the old with the new. Mixing vintage finds, like garments or accessories with new, modern finds.  Many times this can be captured in the bold prints of Diane von Furstenberg; another one of my most inspiring designers. 

2.   Where do you shop?

I love to support local businesses. Some of my favorites are Bloom and Grassroots in Newark, DE; Rags to Riches and Saks Thrift Avenue in Wilmington DE; Lost and Found and Sugarcube in Philadelphia, PA, and Francesca’s Collections in Greenville, DE.

3.   How often do you shop?

Shopping is my guilty pleasure; I wish I could do it every single day! However, I shop about once a week, mostly on the weekend.

4.   Do you look for a bargain or is price not an issue if you really love it?

I always say, if you love it- GET IT! Or you will be sorry! Bargain shopping is great too, you can get so much for so little. You can always use these items and garments in different ways later. Recycling old garments into new and fun accessories is so easy and extends your wardrobe.

5.   Do current fashion trends affect your personal style?

Yes, definitely! I always want to be up-to-date or ahead of the trends on my style. If a particular silhouette or print is “in” I want it!  However, with this I have a tendency to dress it up my own, personal way and it may not be the way that everyone else wears it. That’s what makes it my own. Be wary of short-lived trends, as these can get expensive and will only cause you to make more trips to Goodwill to donate old styles.

6.   How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Wow, I stopped taking count in 1999! If I really had to say- I could probably make it halfway through a fiscal year and never wear the same pair twice!

7.   Do you continue to use and wear the clothes that you already have or does every new season require a new wardrobe?

I always wear clothes that I already own and mix and match them with other new, trendy pieces. I try to recycle garments I have with updated, newly purchased styles. This helps keep my wardrobe looking fresh every season and it helps my wallet, too.  

8.   Does your job / life style play a part in determining what you are able to wear? 

Most definitely, this plays a huge role in what I wear, as I am a freelance apparel designer. Normally, I dress according to what fits my clients as well as a sense of my own style.

9.   If you had endless amounts of money what article of clothing would you purchase?

I would purchase every single tailored suit made by Chanel.

10.   What shopping secrets, strategies and or recommendations can you share with the readers?

Purchase items that are versatile and can be worn with newer trends. Build from your basics, this way you cut your costs, recycle garments, and save your wallet.