I am always fascinated by authentic personal style. Anytime I am shopping for a specific job, I have to constantly remind myself what I am shopping for! It is so hard for me to focus on one thing when I happen upon pieces that would be so perfect for other clients or friends. I'll see a piece and immediately think "Oh so-and-so would love that!" or "That blazer is so her!"
As an ode to personal style I created this column, Her Style. Each week we will get a sneak peek into the wardrobe and personal style of a different chic chica. (The first one is here!) This week our special guest is Ashley Nelson. We met in January and clicked instantly over our love of styling and all things fashion. Keep reading for her shopping secrets and the great style advice she gives-- which I couldn't agree with more!
Your name and what you do?
Hi, I’m Ashley from Impossibly Imperfect, a lifestyle blog that gives you a glimpse into little things I come across on a daily basis, from fashion and travel to interior design. By day I am a Public Relations gal, specializing in media relations and brand strategy for a variety of clients. Though every other minute of my life I find that I’m pursuing my passion to become a stylist. Unexpectedly, styling is incorporated into my day, be it in the form of discussing what a celebrity spokesperson should wear to jumping in to pull together a friends “just right” first date look to assisting in the styling of client’s events.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is a constantly evolving! I like to think that I mix trend items with staples to pull together ensembles that no one else will be seen in. I grew up shopping and working at my mom’s {amazing!} clothing store, which has unique one-of-a-kind pieces. As I got older, I realized what a rarity it was to have this luxury of having items that no one else did. I could spot what I wanted a mile away in any situation and often times would pull together outfits on my little sister to get a sense of how they were going to look paired together.
Where were you going in this look?
This was shot on the first beautiful Saturday NYC had seen this spring, I was heading out for a full day in the city. First on the agenda, a set brunch date with my girlfriends at Bell Books & Candle. After the delightful brunch, I headed out for shopping in SoHo, then cocktails with a friend all followed by dinner at Tartine with the boy. I knew I wouldn’t be home in between any of these activities so I needed an outfit that would transcend for all occasions.
What do you love most about it?
The versatility of an outfit for me is impertinent and this look has so many different wearable options. During the week, I’m going constantly from the office and meetings to a happy hour or dinner with my girls. With a solid item as the base of a look, I can pair it with bright jewelry, statement heels or a spot on blazer to create a number of different killer ensembles. This look speaks volumes to my style.
Do you have a style icon?
My mom. Wow, that is possibly one of the most cliché things I could ever say, but it’s true. Since I was little, my life has been encompassed in the fashion world solely thanks to her. She taught me that there are no rules in fashion, trends are great but they come and go so you have to create your own personal style before you can do anything else.
Where are your favorite places to shop in your city?
I love shopping in stores that carry designers you can’t find anywhere else such as What Goes Around Comes Around (WGACA) and Cloak & Daggar. The rotation of phenomenal merchandise is incredible, I walk in and am constantly in awe over this or that.
Though inevitably because I do shop so much when I head back to Texas, nothing excites me more than perusing the Antique Garage or the Brooklyn Flea for baubles, bags and an array of assorted unneeded home goodies. I could get lost in these places, there is something to be said for the invigorating atmosphere that each offers to shoppers. I can be found at the Brooklyn Flea on countless Saturdays during the summer and Sunday’s I’ve been known to spend a few hours walking the Antique Garage to find a perfect statement piece or two for a friend’s bridal party ensemble.
What is on your wishlist for Spring?
Currently I have two running wishlists. One list for prime attainable items and another for those that if I were to have the desire to splurge on I would. This season’s wishlist {still} includes the Celine luggage tote, it’s a classic staple that will forever find life within my ever-changing wardrobe. Staples are important but I’m also on the hunt for a stand out perfect pair of wedges that are serious statement makers, preferably with a height of 5 – 6 inches to help create a few killer ensembles.
What is one piece of style advice you would give someone?
Dress for yourself and no one else.
At the end of the day, if you feel good in what you are wearing you are going to be happier than being in an outfit that just doesn’t resonate with your personality or style.