DIY Fashionista Cut Out and Keep Interview

This week I was featured on the DIY Fashionista of Cut Out and Keep. Check it out here:

 Imogen from Tia Cherie

 






How would you describe your style?
My style is feminine, dressy, colourful and vintage inspired. I love polka dots, rainbow stripes, pearls, bows, pretty dresses, sparkly cardigans, kitty cat print, unicorns and glitter so I try and incorporate these elements into my looks as much as possible. My signature look consists of a fit and flare dress in a bright colour or fun pattern, a hair flower and heels or ballet flats (with an embellished cardigan thrown in for good measure in the colder weather).

What's your favourite piece in your wardrobe?
This is a very difficult question because my wardrobe is my pride and joy! I’d have to say my genuine vintage dress from the 1940s. It’s pink with white polka dots and features an oversized collar, a purple velvet sash, a full skirt and ballerina length. It has a real princess feel. I wish I had more opportunities to wear it. It has so much history and character. I often think about the life my dress once had during the 1940s in the US; an interesting thought. 

Who are your style icons?
My style icons are definitely other bloggers much more than celebrities. See my answer below for the fashion blogs that I read and which inspire me. However, if I was to choose a celebrity I’d say Taylor Swift. . While she is very beautiful and clearly interested in fashion, she isn’t totally obsessed with herself like a lot of people in the public eye. I believe this is a form of inner beauty; her classiness, self-worth and professionalism shine through and inspire me. In terms of fashion, I adore many of her timeless and vintage inspired pieces; one of my absolute favourites was her 1950s style yellow dress paired with red heels which was rather reminiscent of Belle from Beauty and the Beast. The time she wore white kitty cat shoes, made my already existing love for feline related fashion items, grow even more. I also love many of her sparkly pieces and she sure has worn a number of sparkly dresses over the years. I still adore her look all the way back from the 2009 Country Music Awards. I love how she often opts for timeless makeup, particularly the classic red lips. I love how she channels her curly hair but also experiments with straight hair (on occasion) and a myriad of stunning up styles. I was so inspired by her buns and cascading curls when choosing the hairstyles for my wedding party in 2012.

Do you have any favourite designers?
In terms of designers, I’m completely drawn to bags and shoes. My dream is to one day own a classic Chanel quilted bag. I also love Dior, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade and Charlotte Olympia. The collections of Oscar de la Renta often capture my attention. I love the Spring 2014 collection. The ruffles, vibrant colours, bold patterns, beautiful silhuttes, embroidery work, eyelet details, full skirts and wearability are true features.

Where are your favourite places to shop for new clothes clothes?
My favourite places to shop for new clothes are the Australian stores Alannah Hill and Review. I wish I could own every single piece from all of their collections; they are a true representation of my personal style. I also like visiting their factory outlets and websites (www.alannahhill.com.au and www.review-australia.com). Dangerfield (dangerfield.com.au) and Forever New (www.forevernew.com.au) also have some good pieces. In terms of online shopping undoubtedly Modcloth is the best (http://www.modcloth.com/). It is always so reliable when it comes to finding that unique, creative and genius piece! 

Do you make or customise your outfits?
I don’t make clothes because my sewing skills are very limited; I’ve made a couple of very basic skirts in the past but I wasn’t particularly happy with the quality of them. I wish I could make a dress. I see so many beautiful fabrics that I’d love to transform into dresses. This is my very long term goal. I’ve customised a number of pieces particularly cardigans. I often add sparkles, trim, embellishments and buttons. I love how it creates a personalised touch and adds so much to a look. 

Do you have any great tips for mixing up and personalising an outfit?    
In order to personalise an outfit it is important to develop your own sense of style. My number one tip would be to style yourself in a way which suits you and reflects your true personality as opposed to what the current trends dictate. For example, I have the same hairstyle and makeup most days. It’s become my signatory look and having a style which represents me provides a great sense of joy. That’s not to say your image should be entirely regimented; of course it’s fun to experiment with news trends as frequently as you desire. All I’m saying is if there’s a certain aspect of fashion which you love and which makes you, you, then go with it. In terms of mixing up an outfit, try and see your wardrobe as a set of interchangeable pieces. Some of the best outfits are created by pairing items which we wouldn’t normally expect to go together. A few of my favourite combinations- pink & red and stripes & florals would fall under this category. 

Dangerfield Skirt
Mimco Heels
DIY Sequin Cardigan