The Power of Personal Style

Posted by: smilie on 02/19/2005 - 07:28 PM
Eight stylish women share the secrets that make them standouts.

• Fun & Funky

• Urban Chic

• Free Spirit

• Professional

• Vintage

• Fit & Strong

• Preppy

• Daytime Sexy

Fun & Funky

The way you dress, the jewelry you love, the perfect haircut -- all help create confidence, command respect and turn heads. Just ask these eight style-savvy women.

Shelly Bomb, 36, costume designer and a creative director for Anti-gravity, a performance group.

What does your look say about you? That I love change. My hair, for instance, has been pink, purple and highlighted. Right now it's auburn, which looks distinctive and flatters my pale skin. And I'm always changing the clothes I buy -- like cropping pants and tops, or adding a fancy zipper or accessory to make it different. I like one-of-a-kind pieces like this top that my friend crocheted for me.

Where do your style ideas originate? My father is a hairdresser, and I grew up going to hair shows, so I guess my funky style has its roots there.

What is your most extravagant fashion or accessory purchase? An antique bone necklace from Peru -- I've worn it only once.





Urban Chic

Jill Fairchild, 40, co-author, Where to wear guides for New York City and Europe.

What is your style staple?

Pants -- I'm definitely a pants girl because I'm constantly running around, getting in and out of cabs, and I can't be hindered by anything that will slow me down.

I also love eclectic jewelry, and boots with heels that are comfortable yet sexy and give you a little edge.

Is there anything you refuse to wear?

I hate stockings -- I never wear them.

What are you always on the lookout for when you shop?

Belts. They go with everything I own. A belt emphasizes the good part of my body. I feel naked without one. Whenever one catches my eye, I pick it up. I must have forty, at least.

How do trends influence what you wear? I try to stick to well-made basics that can take me anywhere. Accessories give you an easy way to incorporate trends without becoming obsessed with them. Read the entire article.