I am a strong believer that style exists outside the limits of the major fashion capitals. New York, Paris, LA and London are not the only places equipped with exciting fashion and stylish women. However, style outside of these big cities is rarely considered by magazines, blogs and fashion labels. Even other big cities (Seattle, Austin, San Francisco), who are not considered fundamentally "chic", extremely stylish women in these areas DO exist but the style is not recognized. Women in this country play varying roles and have drastically different fashion needs while also living in different weather conditions. Yet, countless brands may still only have a customer vision of a beach-blonde flower child in LA or a glitzy social butterfly in NYC. With the power of social media, people from all over can now show their style off to the world, so fashion should not be limited by region anymore. I understand that fashion in these big cities is iconic and admirable, but it is time to start recognizing women in other parts of the country who also love to express themselves through fashion, even if they do not work in the industry. Which brings me to the purpose of this post: to show that style DOES exist in small towns. Even as a small town in Idaho, Coeur d'Alene houses some seriously fashionable women that I am proud to show off. Meet these six beautiful women who break the stereotype that the best thing Idaho produces is potatoes. Let these women be an inspiration to you on how to express yourself through fashion even if you are not a big city girl.
How would you describe your style?
Trendy with a dash of 90’s (it is changing up a bit, so some style loves of my mine aren’t pictured)
Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
The people around me, 90’s music videos. I am just now checking out blogs and such. Instagram is a great avenue for this with so many people from around the world. All unique styles that aren’t boxed into one "thing"... I love that!
What are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?
My jean jackets, because LAYERING. I haven’t thought far enough for summer, but fall and winter for me equals so much layering. Each jean jacket, whether black or blue denim, adds so much variety to the simplest of outfits and gives you a flare without too much effort.
Shoes... all them accessories! Hats, big hoop earrings, a rad bag, oh my! So much is added to outfits with all of the above!
What is currently on your fashion wishlist?
Yeezy season 6 all the way.
Where are you favorite places to shop?
Tiffany blue, Nordstrom Rack, Target, thrift shops... and now, online!
What are you favorite brands/designers?
Lush - BCBG - Free People - Yeezy - Trunk: these brands have many brains adding to the creativity, they are relevant but also are not afraid to throwback to their origins, bring it back and make the style current.
ABLE - “able works with communities all over the world to stop the cycle of poverty by producing slow fashion and paying a living wage to women who have often overcome extraordinary circumstances”
Do you have any other fashion related details about yourself that you would like to share?
I love fashion!
Working in a clothing boutique has given me the privilege to love something even more... walking with women, the journey of loving yourself no matter what you are wearing. that’s the best part. championing self-love and understanding what we wear just increases that.
For this season of life, I love that I am all over the place, style-wise. Of course there are things that are consistent in my style, but high-top vans and a big black sweatshirt are just as much my love-language as a graphic tee, striped skirt, denim jacket and a hat.
I love traveling to new places and seeing how others express themselves with style, going against the norm. So much inspiration from them comes to me. Also, my co-workers and friends.. we feed off each others' styles!
Hannah, 24
How would you describe your style?
My style evolves on the daily. I see my personal style as an outlet to publicly display my personality every single day I wake up. There are some days I feel Coco Chanel classic and ladylike, other days I feel Upper East Side Preppy, and even occasionally eclectic and bohemian.
Where do you find fashion inspiration?
Despite growing up in a town that's been in a fashion drought since its existence, I managed to curate fashion inspiration since the time I was little. I attribute a lot of this to my mother and the way she raised me. Our mother daughter dates most always included trips to Nordstrom to browse all the latest designs. She gave me freedom to dress myself from a young age(as outlandish as it may have been), and taught me the importance of self expressions through clothing. Once I left Idaho, I was able to live and experience fashion in many different cities across the country and over seas. The art, fashion, and way of life in these places still give me inspiration daily.
What are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?
My most prized pieces in my wardrobe are those that have sentimental value or a good story within them. I have been lucky enough to travel to many different places in the world, and through that I have picked up some special pieces for my wardrobe. Vintage Chanel and Louis Vuitton from thrift stores in Europe, handmade leather sandals from Greece, a custom leather jacket from Italy, broken in cowboy boots from Austin, brightly colored scarves from Morocco, and so many others in between. I love that my wardrobe can directly reflect the places I have been, and the places that I hope to go.
What is currently on your fashion wishlist?
Right now I am craving some new staple pieces for my wardrobe. I feel like my style has evolved over the years, and I am entering a new chapter in my book of fashion. With that comes the need of updating my capsule pieces. I would love to find a great new Spring trench, a pair of cropped raw-edge jeans, a billowy floral peasant dress, and maybe some Chanel color block heels ( a girl can dream right?).
Where are your favorite places to shop?
I get asked this question ALL the time, and I truly always have a difference answer. I feel like my wardrobe is such an eclectic collection of items from everywhere. I shop my mom's closet for some vintage gems, Anthropologie for those beautiful and breathtaking statement items. Zara for all of my on trend fast fashion needs, and TJ Maxx and Nordstrom Rack for basically everything else in between.
Do you have any other fashion related details about yourself that you would like to share?
I actually have a degree in Apparel Design from the University of Texas! I got my Bachelors there and also spent some time studying in Florence (rough I know). It was an amazing four years of blood, swear, tears, and seam ripping deep into the night. From there, I worked at Nordstrom as a designer for one of their private labels. After a stint there, I made the decision to start my own line. Currently I have a clothing line of dresses and tops for nursing mothers called Honeysuckle. I was inspired by my sisters and friends who have embarked on the journey of motherhood but struggled with their wardrobe. Although it's still a new company, I have learned so much, and truly can't wait to see where it takes me. I have SO many aspirations and lines of work in fashion I wish to accomplish.
Marie, 50
How would you describe your style?
Euro-chic... current... funky... unique... and most importantly comfortable!!
Where do you find fashion inspiration?
All over! I love that you can find inspiration everywhere. Instagram, other people, my girls, architecture, big cities, other cultures, sale racks--I always think of sale rack finds as items that I did not think I needed, but they found me. This keeps me from playing it too safe giving me freedom to experiment.
What are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?
Season-less pieces that can be dressed up or down. My go-to color palette: white, ivory, grey, blush, navy, and black.
What is currently on your fashion wishlist?
Pieces that will stand the test of time and statement items that can make an impact without being over the top. Maybe a trench coat or a vintage men's blazer. Also, good basics that fit well and are versatile.
I am always looking for stylish and comfortable shoes in my hard-to-find shoe size... 11.
Where are your favorite places to shop?
Marmalade, Marie's Boutique, Anthropologie, thrift/vintage stores
I also love shopping while visiting other cities and taking home something as a non-cliche souvenir. One of my favorites: my first Chanel jacket from my last trip to New York City that I bought at a consignment store.
What are your favorite brands/designers?
Chanel fits my style perfectly! Classic, feminine, stays current and fun while remaining true to who they are.
Do you have any other fashion related details about yourself that you would like to share?
I have always loved fashion because it allows me to be creative. I loved fashion when I was younger and had no money just as much as I do now. I found ways to make clothes and change them in ways to make it my own. Having little resources should not hold you back. I feel as if my style is always evolving. I don’t have an icon or obsession because I draw from many resources, so find it hard to narrow my choices. I have loved sharing my love of fashion with my daughters and they have taught me a great deal. I feel I am unique because I have tried to stay true to my style have not allowed myself to be too caught up in what was popular at the time. Must have fashion accessories: a good (comfortable) pair of shoes and confidence in YOUR own style.
Katie, 35
How would you describe your style?
Bohemian chic is my go-to style: vintage and florals, along with pieces that can be worn multiple ways. Fashion is fun and I love experimenting with other styles, like romantic rocker or classic and clean. minimalism to maximalism and pieces from most decades, except the 80s
Where do you find fashion inspiration?
Everywhere! Obvious places like Instagram, fashion magazines, bloggers, my co-workers and friends. Celebrities - Emma Stone, Michelle Williams, Zendaya, Jamie Chung, Jessica Alba, Yara Shahidi, Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly...the list could go on and on and on. However, I have looked up to my sister’s fashion my entire life.
What are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?
Depends on the season...
Winter or cold weather: I love different fish nets or tights (it gets cold here, and is a great way to still wear dresses or shorts. I even love wearing them under distressed jeans! Obsessed with dusters, preferably with buttons to wear different ways. Anything velvet, fur, faux fur! My favorite winter piece is a score my husband found at an estate sale - an AMAZING vintage fur cape :)
Summer: this season is not long enough to wear everything I want! Jorts (jean shorts), skirts, rompers, sundresses. Sundresses and more sundresses! I do have a favorite sundress - hands down, my vintage rose dress from Marmalade Underground! Roses are very meaningful to my husband and me. Plus, the dress is timeless and the compliments pour in! When talking about my favorite clothes, My jean jacket from high school (mid 90s), is a size too big, but I wear all the time and will never let it go! In fact, women have actually tried to buy it off my back! Shoes!!! Uh-oh. I’ll stop now.
What is currently on your fashion wishlist?
A designer handbag. To be specific, a Chanel Drawsting Bag preferably a vintage one. Way out of my price range, but a gal can dream! More obtainable, necessary, and currently on the shopping hunt are the perfect pair of white sneakers.
Where are your favorite places to shop?
As a small business owner and lover of the city I live in, I shop LOCAL first! Marmalade and Marie’s, Tiffany Blue, Santosha to name a few. Online...Revolve, Rue la la, and wherever there’s a good sale - like any time Gap has a big sale for some basic tees or jeans. If I’m in the area, it’s hard to pass up a Nordstrom Rack or TJ Maxx.
What are your favorite brands/designers?
LPA - Lara Pia Arrobio is my spirit animal!
Faithfull the Brand - makes me want to be on permanent vacay, preferably on a yacht off the Mediterranean Coast.
House of Harlow 1960 - I usually like every piece Nicole Richie creates, her style and vibes️
Topshop - good quality and can find deals
Band of Gypsies - very bohemian-chic and romantic
Sfizo - an Italian Brand, which is s beautiful and breezy!
THML - I love the embroidery and their sundresses and price.
J.O.A. - a lot of pieces are in my closet and always get compliments whenever I wear the line.
Joe’s, Paige, 7 for all Mankind, and good old Calvin Klein jeans fit nice and last. DL1961 jeans are always on my wish list. Some major designers I’m obsessed with: Temperly London, Chanel, Dior, Victoria Beckham, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Alice & Olivia, Badgely Mischka
Do you have any other fashion related details about yourself that you would like to share?
I dress for myself and want to look nice, even if I’m feeling like a disaster. Although, not gonna lie, I do enjoy dressing to impress! Lucky for me, this is the best time for fashion and trying new styles. Fashion is so much fun right now. Everything is in and can really express myself. It can show if I’m feeling artistic and creative, sassy or sexy, approachable and happy, or even tired and messy. However, my trick when I’m feeling like a wreak is to at least look like a haute mess and dress fancy, do my hair, and wear more makeup...or, sweats and a hat works.
Lizzy, 22
How would you describe your style?
I was actually just talking to a friend about this. I told her how I feel like my style changes almost every month. I don’t think I really have a distinct “style” just if I like something I’ll wear it! Somedays I love a frilly dress and heels, other days I’m all about destroyed jeans, a graphic tee and tennies. I do like style that is more on the unique/edgy side and fashion forward.
Where do you find fashion inspiration?
I love to follow fashion bloggers on Instagram! I get sooo much inspiration and learn about the latest trends from them. My current favs are @rocky_barnes, @tezzamb, @joandkemp and @zoelaz. I also find a lot of inspo from Pinterest. If I’m struggling on how to style a piece of clothing, I’ll always resort to Pinterest and see how others are wearing it!
I’m also very inspired by 90s fashion. Plaid, shoulder pads, mom jeans, mini skirts, denim on denim, etc. I love it all!
What are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?
My Vans and white tennies, I feel like I can wear them with almost any outfit.
I got a pair of mom jeans from ASOS awhile ago and I wear them probably 2 or 3 times a week I love them so much.
Also my belts, lately my “go-to” outfit is high waisted jeans or shorts with a graphic tee tucked in and a statement belt.
My Sherpa lined denim jacket and my leather jacket would also probably have to be on this list.
What is currently on your fashion wishlist?
Anything Gucci. Gucci has always been in style but lately I see it everywhere! It’s so in. I’m also loving lavender this season, I would love to find an awesome lavender suit or two piece ensemble.
Where are your favorite places to shop?
TBlue Boutique, Anthropologie, Free People, Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters, Madewell and ASOS.
What are your favorite brands/designers?
There are so many! My Current favorite brands are Free People, ASTR the label, Madewell, Topshop, BB Dakota, Adidas, Moon River and Adelyn Rae.
Free people always has the most unique pieces. They have such a distinct look, when I walk into a store I feel like I can always pick out what pieces are theirs without even looking at the label.
ASTR the label and Moon River have feminine yet edgy pieces.
Madewell has great jeans and simple yet feminine tops. I love stripes and fun patterns and they do them so well. A very “laid back” girly vibe.
Topshop is always fashion forward and up to date on current trends. Sometimes feels a little too young for me, but I always find something I love by them.
I love Adidas for athleisure looks.
Adelyn Rae is my favorite for dresses! They make such classic, girly, flattering and fun dresses!
Do you have any other fashion related details about yourself that you would like to share?
I love fashion! There are few things that can get me as excited as going shopping for new clothes! Ever since I can remember, I’ve always been obsessed with clothes. Growing up, at the beginning of every school year, my mom would take me to the mall for school shopping and I would get to pick out all new clothes. It became my favorite part of the year and something I looked forward to even more than Christmas! Today, I think of fashion as a hobby and clothes have become something I am passionate about.
Two years ago I started working for a local boutique and my love for clothing grew even more. I was able to see the joy fashion can bring to all sorts of women! I strongly believe taking care of yourself physically and dressing your body well contributes to making a confident woman. And that has become one of my favorite parts of the job, watching women try on clothes and fall in love with themselves and their bodies in a new outfit or piece of clothing. It’s something special to witness.
I try not to confine my style to one genre, I like to try styles and pieces from all fashion avenues and bring them together in my wardrobe. What style I decide to wear everyday just depends on my mood and how I feel like portraying myself at that time.
Alyssa, 19
How would you describe your style?
My style is chic/avant-garde.
Where do you find fashion inspiration?
Instagram, Youtube, street style, and movies
What are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?
I like unique pieces that I find while thrifting because they feel like a one of a kind item that only I have.
What is currently on your fashion wishlist?
I am always looking for a good pair of denim jeans. I hate jean shopping, but right now I am having trouble finding a go-to pair of jeans.
Where are your favorite places to shop?
Etsy, Wanelo, Free People, Anthropologie, Goodwill and Urban Outfitters
What are your favorite brands/designers?
Are You Am I, I.am.gia, Acne Studios, John Galliano, Maison Margiela, Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford
Do you have any other fashion related details about yourself that you would like to share?
Some of my favorite fashion icons include: 90's Britney Spears, Audrey Hepburn, Carrie Bradshaw, Stevie Nicks, Kate Middleton, Sami Quin, Sonya Esman, and Lana Del Rey.