Fashion 5 Honoree: Anna Anami

To know Anna Anami is to know great style, elegance, and determination. Traits that have made her a success in business, fashion, and in life. She possesses a romantic philosophy that recalls a time when men and women were properly suited for a trip to the bank and chivalry was very much alive, yet maintains a modern sensibility. This is Anna Anami! (Inset, left: Anna Anami; Anami styles it high with Chanel; enjoys running town lake; enjoys sushi from Uchi.)

WHO IS ANNA ANAMI???

Anna was born in Tehran, Iran, and lived in Italy for one year prior to coming to the states. She has lived in Austin since 1984 and graduated with honors from the University of Texas where she majored in Biology and Psychology. Anami joined on with a prominent real estate company and was a top producer with the company and ranked Top 25 Realtors by the Austin Business Journal. In 2008, she and her business partner started The Boutique Real Estate. They have 5 agents underneath them and have had an amazing year and a half in business.

At age 13, Anna started modeling and was signed by Page Parkes in Houston and later Kim Dawson Agency in Dallas. She has modeled for Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's NY, Zac Posen(5+ years), Chanel, Tiffany's, Bergdorf Goodman, Douglas Hannant, Julian Gold, Escada, Saks Fifth Avenue, Dolce and Gabbana, Armani Cosmetics, Mark Bauer, Ralph Lauren, and is the face of Estilo Boutique and Calvin's Jewelry.

Anna enjoys sports (tennis, golf, running, yoga), the outdoors, philanthropy (Assistance League of Austin, St David's Hospital Volunteer, Zachary Scott Theater, Ballet Austin), spending time with family and friends, and travel (Africa, Greece, Miami, and New York are some of her favorites). Anna says that her mom is her best friend and in her down time, she loves to read at Barnes + Noble, spend time with friends, family, and boyfriend. Anna enjoys going to the movies, have game nights, and shopping.

MYSTYLE-AUSTIN INTERVIEW WITH ANNA ANAMI!!!

MyStyle-Austin: How would you describe your personal style?

Anna Anami: I would say understated, girly, playful, and I try not to take it too seriously, but definitely understated.

MSA: Understated in what way?

AA: As much as I admire a print or a wild color on a mannequin, unless it is placed on me by Neiman Marcus or a designer, I don’t choose it for myself. I admire it but I tend to go for pieces that are not too fussy. If it is tight, or too short, or constricting I know that I won’t wear it. There is not a neutral, gray, black, white or brown that I am not friends with. If it is user friendly for more than one occasion and it’s comfortable, I will wear it. If it has a little lace or a little girliness to it, that appeals to me too!

MSA: Do you have a uniform?

AA: Yes! You are looking at it. For the weekends I love ripped jeans, boots or flats, a tank top, and some sort of camisole or jacket. I love cashmere cardigans. During the week it’s work wear: skirts or pants, flats a blouse and a jacket. I would love to wear heels more often but in my line of work you have to be able to get into and out of a car and I am showing properties all day and it’s just not practical.

MSA: What sets your style apart from everyone else?

AA: Well, if I am set apart! Seriously, what sets me apart hopefully, is that when you look at me, hopefully you don’t say she tried to hard. I try to look as polished as I can look without looking like I tried too hard.

MSA: Who or what inspires your personal style?

AA: When I talk about something being more, loose than form fitting, or a neutral palette, what comes to mind is Calvin Klein runway. The hair and make-up are not too fussy and the clothes although girly, are not a production. I draw inspiration from that. Minimalism.

MSA: Who is your style icon?

AA: New York is my style icon! She, is my style icon! If you walk down the street in New York City, you might see a girl walking with simple hair, light make-up, skinny jeans, a ribbed white tank top, flats and a jacket. She's carrying a fabulous bag, like Marc Jacobs. Simple and chic! Also, if you take care of yourself and you have bright eyes and clear skin, a bright smile and great posture, whatever you are wearing, you are my style icon.

MSA: In your line of work, how does your style impact your business?

AA: Well I work with a lot of couples, and so I’m not interested in, nor would it behoove me to wear anything constricting or uncomfortable. My work wear is very conservative and covered up. On the weekend is when my personality comes out more. I think in my former life, I was a ballerina, because I’m drawn to anything tulle or puffy, and ballet slippers.

MSA: What do you think about style in Austin?

AA: I like the style here. It’s eclectic, it’s fun, and it’s relaxed. Austin doesn’t try to be anything but Austin and I appreciate that. We have our own identity here and I think it’s great.

MSA: If you could add one thing to Austin style, what would it be?

AA: When I am in New York I love to get up early and watching the men and woman on
Wall Street because they look so polished. Each one of them looks like a Goldman-Sachs investment banker no matter what their job is. God bless the large clothing chain stores but we are not all shaped like boxes. I don’t know what mannequin they are using to cut their clothing. So I would love it if Austin embraced chic Italian suits a little bit more and drew more attention to their business wear.

MSA: If you could change one thing from Austin style, what would it be?

AA: Flashdance leggings! It’s not lost on me that we live in Texas. I have been here since 84’. But sometimes I feel that the look on a girl is a little bit too much, a little too pageant. If we could say goodbye to fake nails, tons of make-up and big hair, or outfits where the dress matches the earrings, that matches the eye shadow, that matches the shoe, it’s a little old school. If we could pull back a little bit, put down the hair spray, put down the eye shadow. Less is more.

MSA: What trends do you love right now?

AA: I love skinny jeans and ankle booties. Chanel handbags are not a trend, I think they are forever and I love and adore them. I also love big sunglasses and chunky bracelets.

MSA: What trends do you dislike?

AA: I don’t like eighties anything. I don’t like grunge.

MSA: What is the one item of clothing that every woman needs?

AA: A Chanel handbag never goes out of style. You can pass it down to your children’s children’s children. Like these bracelets I never take off, they are from Iran that my Mom gave to me and that her grandma gave to her. A piece of your mother’s jewelry is always something nice to wear.

MSA: Whose closet would you love to play in?

AA: I would love to shop in Georgina Chapman’s(designer for Marchesa) closet. I love and adore her. She has the whole ballerina, flirty, girly, thing going on.

MSA: What is your favorite personal style moment?

AA: A few seasons ago, Zac Posen had a fashion show after party during fashion week. He opened up the closet and said 'pick your dress.' It was this pink silk gown, with a sweetheart neckline that fit me to a tee. I had the shoes and the handbag to go with it and it was just my idea of heaven. I have worked with Zac for five years. I do fashion shows and market week.

MSA: What is your least favorite personal style moment?

AA: 1980 to 1989! I'll just say this. If I don’t want to be somewhere, my outfit usually reflects it. I won’t put any thought or time into it and I will probably look like hell.

MSA: What is your dream red carpet look?

AA: A long evening gown by Marchesa. Hair up and back like a ballerina. Jewelry by Chopard and strappy shoes by whomever!

MSA: What is the one piece of style advice that you would like to share with every woman?

AA: Less is more. You are pretty enough without all of that make-up. Let’s strive for a more streamlined, understated, look!

Fashion 5 Honoree: Stephanie Coultress-O'Neill

Stephanie Coulterss-O'Neill is a woman after my own heart. She is a powerful force of energy that is as recognizable as her laugh. She has a sincere appreciation for fashion and style that is matched only by her love for friends and family. Stephanie has brought a glamorous life sensibility to Austin Fashion which she herself personifies. This is Stephanie Cultress-O'Neill! (Inset,left: Stephanie Coultress-O'Neill; the spot for the perfect Mexican martini, Ranch 616; CRU, O'Neill's favorite place to relax with friends, and Jo's for a caffeinated turbo recharge.)

WHO IS STEPHANIE COULTRESS-O'NEILL???

Stephanie Coultress, a former therapist, took her love for people, fashion and events and opened Estilo in 2005. Having lived in Austin for over 20 years, she wanted to create a clothing store that is versatile and timeless, and still offers personal styling for each client. Estilo was one of the pioneers on Second Street and has quickly established a strong following.

Having been nationally recognized and been the recipient of several awards, from “Best Men’s and Women’s clothing” to most recently in 2009, “Austin’s Best Fashion Boutique” , Estilo has created a “one-stop” shop for local Austinites and tourists. A favorite of Estilo’s clients is the champagne and shopping parties. Here, a client is able to browse the latest styles with their friends, and receive personal styling consulting, while sipping on champagne.

Stephanie is also known for her strong philanthropic fundraising and continual support of the nonprofit community, through donations and events at Estilo. With its gallery presentation of clothing, Estilo is the perfect venue for any fundraising event.

While staying true to her Austin roots, Stephanie allows Austinites to explore their own style and find that perfect outfit, by providing them with a variety of hand-picked designers from around the world.

MYSTYLE-AUSTIN INTERVIEW WITH STEPHANIE COULTRESS-O'NEILL.

MyStyle-Austin: How would you describe your personal style?

Stephanie Coultress-O'Neill: Effortlessly chic! I like to look effortlessly put together. I think it needs to be comfortable but still noticeable. My favorite outfit, my uniform is what I call it, is skinny jeans tall boots and a cute top. That is what I tend to wear day to day sometime I throw a scarf on for the day and at night I might add a great necklace. My style definitely has sexy appeal but never like I am trying to look sexy.

MSA: What would you say sets your style apart from others?

SC-ON: I definitely think that my clothing sets me apart, but my style in general kind of goes with my personality. I love to talk to people when I walk into a room and when I am wearing the right, outfit it always makes me feel confident in doing so. What sets me apart is I always try to look well put together. From the jewelry, to the bag, to the shoes, every little detail is considered but I make it look effortless.

MSA: As a retailer, how do you decide on what lines to carry? How do you decide what is going to be big for the next season?

SC-ON: My style and my buys have changed over the years. When I first opened I tried to be everything to everybody, I bought a little bi of everything. I have learned who my clients are, I have learned who Austin is and I have learned who is willing to explore their personal style and who is not. When I am at market in New York or LA, I tend to be draw to things that I know can be worn and still stand out. Everything I sell in here I have a three compliment guarantee, so what I buy needs to be a show- stopper but not over the top runway couture.

MSA:What is the one item of clothing that every woman needs?

SC-ON: There are a couple of fundamentals, so for me to give you one is tough. Let me give you five: a leather motorcycle jacket it can take your day dress on an evening out. Every woman needs a pair of tall black boots. A great embellished or multi layered gold chain that can be worn with a tank. Obvious a black dress is key because it is so versatile and black is always so sexy. Every woman needs a wardrobe piece that serves as a pop of color, an item that can be worn as an attention getter. So out of all of those I would say that every woman needs a sexy black dress. It is the go to piece when you’re in a fashion jam. It is an easy thing to dress up and dress down and get noticed.

MSA: What trends do you love right now?

SC-ON: To be honest I try to stay away from trends. Although my favorite item that has made a comeback recently during the seventies, eighties, resurgence, is the jumpsuit. I think it is such a sexy piece for women. It shows off so much without showing off too much. A black sexy jumpsuit is just so bold and such a great piece.

MSA: What trends do you dislike right now?

SC-ON: I hate the baggy tunic shirts that don’t show off anything. I hate that they make you loose your sex appeal. You can belt it to try to make it sexy but I think with all of the fabric, sometimes a woman’s figure can get lost in it.

MSA: Tell me what you think about Austin style?

SC-ON: I think that Austinites are unique in that they are willing to explore their own style. They don’t want to go to far to either extreme. They like being chic and reasonable. They like wearable pieces that have character.

MSA: If you could add one thing to Austin style what would it be?

SC-ON: I think Austin is sometimes a little too casual, and I just want them to know that it is OK to dress up. It is ok go out in a party dress and heels and feel beautiful on any given night.

MSA: If you could take one thing away from Austin style what would it be?

SC-ON: I would take away Austin’s need to stay casual. For a man going to a cocktail party, it is nice to have on a blazer and trouser, and for a woman it is great to show off your cocktail dresses. You can wear your jeans and a fun top on a different night.

MSA: What has been your favorite personal style moment?

SC-ON: My wedding day was truly everything that I ever imagined. From my make-up, to my hair and my dress even the colors of the wedding, I felt like I was in a movie that day. I felt gorgeous, I felt confident, and I felt like I was expressing exactly who I am without holding back.

MSA: What is your least favorite personal style moment?

SC-ON: The day after a party! I am usually a little tired and that is when my uniform comes in. Whenever I am seen in public without any make-up is my least favorite style moment!

MSA: If you could play in anyone’s closet, who’s would it be?

SC-ON: Well Rachel Zoe has my dream job but I don’t know if I would choose her. Her style is so vintage inspired and particular that I would be interested in seeing what she has collected. I love Rihanna’s style. Maybe Victoria Beckham, I love her style but I don’t know if I love her. I would say Rihanna because she really has a good collection of different pieces. I have seen her be sexy and sophisticated all the way to funky and edgy and that is what I like about my style. I can go to every extreme. I can be your rock’n’roll or I can be your classic, chic, elegant girl.

MSA: Describe tome your dream red carpet look!

SC-ON: I would love to wear Cavalli Couture. His fabrics are insane and his silhouette’s are just incredible. I am always attracted to his pieces. Harry Winston or Bulgari to lend me million’s of dollars in diamonds and Christian Louboutin’s or Jimmy Choo’s.

Fashion 5 Honoree: Meredith Davis

I have known Meredith Davis for a very long time and this fashionista has always acted in nothing but kindness and sincerity. Her sophisticated yet sexy style has long been noticed by many and has helped her build a successful career, first in the fashion industry and now at Rare Magazine. Her enthusiasm shines as bright as her smile and her confidence and grace are match by few if any. This is Meredith Davis!( A few of Meredith's favorites: a former associate she now enjoys perusing through David Yurman; Davis picks up the latest in fashion from exclusive retailer Intermix; when ready to relax she enjoys dinner with friends at Austin's Perry's!)

WHO IS MEREDITH DAVIS?

Meredith grew up in Dallas, then moved to Austin to attend The University of Texas, where she received her degree in Public Relations and Business Foundations. While attending school, Meredith worked in the local fashion scene at St Thomas Boutique, where she helped with sales, purchasing inventory, and producing fashion shows for top designers Zac Posen, Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino, and Badgley Mischka. After college, Meredith continued used her extensive background in high-end retail and pursued a career with David Yurman as the Operations & Inventory Manager of the Austin store. After working in fashion for 10 years, Meredith realized that she wanted to be more actively involved in the Austin community, so she made the switch to publishing. Meredith is now the Director of Sales and Marketing for Rare Magazine, where she has the opportunity to immerse herself in the community and help support the growth of local business in Austin.

MYSTYLE-AUSTIN INTERVIEW WITH MEREDITH DAVIS!!!

MyStyle-Austin: How would you describe your personal style?

Meredith Davis: I would definitely describe my style as casual sophistication. O wear a lot of jeans and tanks tops. I always dress it up with accessories to make it more sophisticated. I am definitely laid back so a lot of the things that I wear are laid back and easy.

MSA: What sets your style apart from everyone else?

MD: There is always a sophisticated element to what I wear, like adding a scarf or a blazer. Then styling it up with shoes and accessories.

MSA: From who or from where do you draw your inspiration from?

MD: I really do not draw inspiration from anywhere. I wear what I like. What I am comfortable with and what fits my body well and makes me look good.

MSA: So when getting ready for an event, do you maintain the same laid-back mentality or do you spend time putting together a look?

MD: I definitely spend time putting together a look. It just depends on the event how funky or formal the event is. I always browse the latest fashion magazine and pick from that.

MSA: What do you think about style in Austin?

MD: Style in Austin is very boho chic! I definitely think that it could be dressier. There are a lot of hipsters here, which is great as well as a lot of hippies. That is not exactly me, I am definitely more cosmopolitan than that. It is very funky very different.

MSA: If you could take away or add one thing to Austin style, what would it be?

MD: I would definitely take away a lot of the hippie vibe around here. I would add more stiletto, a more cosmopolitan look. A little more downtown, urban look and feel to the city.

MSA: What is the one item of clothing that every woman needs?

MD: I would say two things. Everyone should have a pair of black stilettos, or black pumps. I personally prefer black patent pumps. You can wear them with everything. I would also say a really good blazer that fits you well because you can dress it up or down. You can pretty much wear it anywhere.

MSA: How does your style impact your work at the magazine?

MD: Ant time I go to a meeting I definitely have to dress the part. Rare is not a conservative magazine. It is a fun kind of funky company. I do dress up a little bit, but I try to make my outfits a little more interesting. As opposed to just a suit and shirt. We are a fun media company and I dress to that. If I am meeting with someone that I know I can dress a little more casual but if I have a meeting with an attorney then I dress more conservatively. I always try to dress the part.

MSA: Whose closet would you like to play in?

MD: Jessica Simpson. I think she has a really fun style. Paris Hilton simply due to shear volume. I am always keeping track of what the trendy starlets are wearing.

MSA: What is your dream red carpet look?

MD: Oh my God! He gown would definitely be by Herve Leger. I love his dresses. They are amazing! When it comes to dresses I am a little more classic. I like black or white, strapless, fitted. It is kind of my style. Christian Louboutin’s of course! Gotta show off those red soles! I would like a really high black peep toe pump, with a beautiful elegant black dress, and lots of diamonds.

MSA: What trends do you love right now?

MD: I am really into tights and boots. I pretty much wear that every day. I think it is so comfortable. I really like it.

MSA: What trend do you absolutely hate right now?

MD: What trend do I hate? The eighties trends. Any of the eighties looks. The bright colors and most of the eighties styles I am just not that into.

MSA: What is your personal favorite style moment?

MD: I am not to sure what event I wore it to but I have this little black Dolce and Gabbana dress with a bustier, it is my favorite party dress. I have a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes that I wear with it and it is just the hottest outfit ever!

MSA: What is your least favorite style moment?

MD: There is a dress that I have that has black and white diagonal stripes and it is very tight and fitted. It is asymmetrical and goes down to my shins. I don’ know what I was thinking.

MSA: What bag are you currently carrying?

MD: Right now I am carrying a bag by my friend Marni Cooper. It is suede and it was a gift. I love it! I am a huge bag person. My dream bag is a red patent leather Louis Vuitton.

MSA: Before Rare Magazine, you worked for various fashion companies. How did your experiences at those companies contribute to who you are today?

MD: I like the way the fashion makes you feel. You can dress to how you feel. Funky or casual whatever you put on can change your mood and I really like the style industry because of that. I loved working in fashion. Over time working for the companies that I have really honed my style. Just being around it enough, seeing all of the different designers and all of their beautiful collections have definitely one my style into who I am and what I wear today.

Fashion 5 Honoree: Joanna Linden

When choosing the candidates for MyStyle-Austin's Fashion 5, I wanted to include a woman who was smart, confident, someone who is "making a difference." Joanna Linden is all of these things. Not only a woman of great style and beauty but a woman who holds her own in the business world, as well as philanthropically minded she leads the way in fulfilling the hopes and dreams of sick children across the state of Texas, through her work at the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Here is Joanna Linden!(To the left: Joanna Linden; when looking for a great gift Joanna heads to Anthropologie; Joanna heads to Austin hot spot La Condessa, when ready to relax with friends over dinner and drinks; Linden's favorite slurge spot, Louis Vuitton)

WHO IS JOANNA LINDEN?

Joanna Linden discovered her passion and strength for raising money as a teenager organizing community fundraisers for church. From those early experiences, Joanna developed her skills and devoted herself to a career in non-profit management. Joanna has worked in development for organizations such as Easter Seals and the Austin Lyric Opera. Now, in her current role, she is the President & CEO of the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Central & South Texas, where she manages $3.1M operating budget; a 40-county territory; a staff of 11; and 350+ volunteers granting the wishes of children with life threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Collectively, Joanna has raised millions of dollars for local, state and national organizations, while serving her community as a dedicated volunteer.

Joanna actively serves on the Board of Directors for Leadership Austin, on the Board of Directors for the Association of Fundraising Professionals, is a mentor for the Association of Fundraising Professionals Mentoring Program, is the Consulting Campaign Manager for the Elisabet Ney Museum Restoration Campaign, served on the Long Center for Performing Arts 1st Anniversary Bash Steering Committee in March 2009, and currently is chairing the annual Association of Fundraising Professionals Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon in January, 2010.

Joanna enjoys spending time with her family and supporting community social events. She is married to Peter Linden, and has two teenage daughters; Abigail and Makenzie. The Linden’s are residents of Westlake and have lived in Austin, Texas for over 15 years.

MYSTYLE-AUSTIN INTERVIEW WITH JOANNA LINDEN:

MyStyle-Austin: How would you describe your personal style?

Joanna Linden: My personal style is spontaneous fashion. I base what I am going to wear on my mood. So if everybody says what are you going to wear to this event, what are you going to wear to that, my answer is I won’t know until I get home, walk into my closet and pick it out. So it is very spontaneous and very based on mood. It is never the same and I like to be unpredictable.

MSA: So getting ready for an event, you are not planning two weeks ahead?

JL: No, but if I have a big event coming up, I will keep my eye out way in advance. For instance, I have this big event coming up in May called Cinderella’s Ball, and I want something powder pink and ball-ish.

MSA: Do you ever get stressed out when getting ready for an event not knowing what you are going to wear until the last minute?

JL: Yes! The stress is over not blending in. I never want to blend in. I always want to be memorable. So, it’s like how do you find something that is going to be memorable in only ten minutes.

MSA: What would you say sets your style apart from everyone else?

JL: I like to take risks. I just want to be someone who at the end of the night someone is going to remember after the event. Whether it’s the fashion piece, something I did with my hair or make-up, or the spray tan that I got (giggle).

MSA: What sort of fashion risks do you like to take?

JL: Well sometimes it has to do with how it fits my body like an open back or a plunging neckline. I recently went to an event, the Ballet Fete, where I was wearing a very dramatic neckline. At Runway to Heaven I wore I black fitted pencil skirt dress that was a little plane and might have stood out on it’s own but I put a fur on last minute and I was really reluctant to do it, but I just put it on and went with it.

MSA: I remember! That fur had to have been J. Mendel or Fendi. Which was it?

JL: It was Fendi. It was a gift from my Aunt. It was a Christmas present that sat in my closet for two year and I was thinking where am I ever going to wear this. So I wore it for the first time ever at that event.

MSA: From who or where do you draw your style inspiration?

JL: I would say it is definitely from classic looks. Not so much a figure or person. I think it is so common for people to say I have a favorite celebrity that I try to look like. Another thing that inspires me is the body and how it fits in clothes. Most look at the clothes and wonder how it will fit on the body. I work out and stay fit and take care of my body so I can wear the clothes.

MSA: So do you have a style icon?

JL: I would say Princess Diana. She was such a charitable person and I am in charity work and the way she carried herself I really admire.

MSA: What is the one item of clothing that every woman needs?

JL: I would say that it absolutely has to be a very nice diamond. Whether it is a
ring, necklace or studs, diamonds I love. I am all about the diamonds.

MSA: What sort of statement do you think diamonds make?

JL: I like diamonds that are subtle and not over stated. So a nice ring or pair of earrings can go with any outfit.

MSA: What do you think about style in Austin?

JL: It is a little embarrassing. I feel like Austin has a bit of an identity crisis. We don’t know who we are. Some are trying to be New York, some LA. I don’t think Austin has figured out who it is fashion wise. I don’t see a lot of manners and being in the business world I sometimes see men give presentations in Hawaiian print shirts and I’m like, can you please put on a tie! The respect factor isn’t here. I don’t see people dressing out of courtesy and that bothers me.

MSA: So if you could change one thing about Austin style, what would it be?

JL: Class. Add some class.

MSA: I agree. There are some situations where you should dress up to show respect. How does the way you present yourself affect your business?

JL: It has a large effect on what I do. Fundraising, everyone looks immediately at what you are wearing, your hair, your nails, so I make sure I always have a great outfit on and do the best that I can. I think that confidence goes a long way in what I do. It sets you apart.

MSA: What trends do you love right now?

JL: I love turquoise jewelry. It makes blonde hair and blue eyes pop. I also love the leather motorcycle jackets. But I don’t have either.

MSA: What trends do you absolutely hate?

JL: Any type of grunge. Like when I am traveling. I hate seeing people dressed like they rolled out of bed a headed strait for the airport. I like to dress up when I travel.

MSA: What is your favorite personal style moment?

JL: There have been so many because I used to work at the opera and there was party after party, after party. I have this apple green dress that was open back with a deep neckline and very form fitting. I wore it twice actually, once to the Opera Ball and then once to the MexicArt Gala. The color and the fit made the dress.

MSA: What has been your least favorite style moment?

JL: Every other day! I have to say it is when I was in my twenties. I’ve looked a pictures of myself and I was dressing like the CEO I am today. I should have been more cutting edge and daring. I am more cutting edge now than I was then. I grew up too fast in my fashion.

MSA: What is your dream red carpet look?

JL: It would absolutely be a Valentino. I think they are so feminine and fit the body so well. Every time I see Valentino on the red carpet I am like, I want that dress! Super high Louboutin’s, I love them. I actually would love hair extensions just for something different and on the red carpet, I think you can get away with it. Of course diamonds. Something subtle but big!

MSA: If you could play in anyone’s closet, who’s would it be?

JL: Not because of whom she is but because what she has, it would be Mariah Carey. The shoes are endless, I have see pictures of her in her closet. Also, the diamonds. I heard that she has a diamond collection upwards of five million dollars.

MSA: What bag are you currently carrying?

JL: Currently, Michael Kors. Black patent leather clutch. I like small purses. I don’t like big purses. I actually get made fun of for having small purses, but all I need is my Blackberry, lip-gloss, keys, and cards.

MSA: What is the one piece of style advice that you would like to share?

JL: To be manicured. You can have on the best outfit but if you don’t cover the details people will notice.

Fashion 5 Week Kickoff with honoree, Rochelle Rae.....

As founder of cosmetic company, Rae Cosmetics, Rochelle Rae is literally bringing beauty to Austin as well as across the country. Self described as a make-up line for the "athletic chic," surely she has found inspiration from her own life as someone who takes pride of her athletic lifestyle. Here is an interview and a brief biography with the lovely, Rochelle Rae.(To the left: Rochelle Rae, Rae Cosmetics store front, Rochelle Rae at Runway to Heaven.)

Interview with Rochelle Rae.

MyStyle-Austin: How would you describe your personal style?

Rochelle Rae: I would say wide spread. I can be very casual. I love going to the beach. I am very much a board shorts and wife beater kind of girl. A lot of times I feel like I am the one who is too dressed up at the party. If I have an excuse to dress up I totally love to dress up but I am completely comfortable in a wife beater and board shorts.

MSA: What style do you think best reflects your personality?

RR: I would say that it is a little eccentric either way. I wouldn’t say that either one defines me. You probably wouldn’t see what I am wearing on the pages of a magazine, what I like to wear is usually a little bit different. I love being both the girl in the board shots and the glamour girl. I went to art school and I used to wear polyurethane and thigh high boot and had purple hair, combat boot and fish nets. I was always little bit on the edge.

MSA: That was in L.A?

RR: No, that was actually in Missouri, Kansas City, and once I came to Texas as well. I actually calmed down when I went to L.A.

MSA: Being in Kansas City, did you style set you apart from the other students?

RR: It did somewhat. Kansas City is a big city and I went to an art school so I was the norm at the Art Institute. I did not have any tattoos or piercing at that time, I don’t now either. I did have some piercing at one time but not anymore. I wasn’t that weird. Once I left the school campus I guess I was a little different from everyone else.

MSA: How did your style transition when you lived in L.A?

RR: I worked so much in LA and went to school. My style there was actually very comfortable because I was on a movie set most of the time. I was a little more comfortable, I still sported the polyurethane pants but I was such in a work situation that I had to be comfortable.

MSA: You said that an eccentric twist defines your style. Is that what you would say sets your style apart from everyone else?

RR: I think what sets me apart, and I have been told this, is that I feel very comfortable in my clothes. Even if it is a black tie event, I like to feel comfortable in what I am wearing. I don not wear anything that I do not feel comfortable in. Even thought I wear three-inch heels everyday, unless I’m in board shorts, that is what I feel comfortable in. Even at New York Fashion Week, people were like ‘are you kidding me?’ Everyone else was in flats, but that is what I feel good in. Back to when I was still in school and I was the only one showing up to class in shiny red plastic pants, that is what I felt comfortable wearing.

MSA: From who or from what are you inspired by stylistically?

RR: I am inspired mostly, by women in the media that are in my age range. Charlize Theron, Cameron Diaz, she always looks comfortable in what she wears even when she dresses up.

MSA: Who is your style icon?

RR: Cameron Diaz. I have a strong sporty side and I love the fact that she can be so sporty with her board on the beach but then look so beautiful on the red carpet.

MSA: Her red carpet looks always seem so effortless!

RR: Exactly! I have been lucky enough to be told that by some people. Maybe that was not necessarily true, but that is what I try to look like.

MSA: Speaking of red carpets. What is would your dream red carpet look be?

RR: I would love to wear an Oscar de la Renta gown. They seem to always be a bit over the top yet still very classy. I would love to show off the red soles a little bit.

MSA: What one item of clothing does every woman need?

RR: Jeans. Great jeans. Jeans that look good on you and that you feel comfortable in. Especially here in Austin, you can go to an event if you have the right pair of jeans.

MSA: What is your opinion about style in Austin?

RR: Obviously it is so much more laid back than everywhere else. I feel like there is good and bad to that. I feel like if you do have that great pair of jeans you do not have to feel uncomfortable going to an event. But at the same time if you want to go out and have a nice dinner with you friends you don’t want to see that guy in his cut-offs and flip flops. The sort of anything goes rule in Austin is great, but is sucks at the same time. It’s what makes Austin what it is.

MSA: If you could add on thing to Austin fashion what would it be?

RR: I would add more events that you are required to dress up for!

MSA: Who’s closet would you love to play in?

RR: Kim Kardashian. One, for her clothes, but also because I heard that she used to go in and organize other people’s closets and I bet hers is so perfectly organized too. I would love for my closet to be organized by color and shirts over here……

MSA: So what is the current state of your closet?

RR: I am moving so it is a wreck!

MSA: What trends do you love?

RR: I am going to buy a pair of leather leggings! I saw a pair online by BCBG Max
Azria that elongate your legs and I am also liking the over the knee, thigh high boots.

MSA: Which trend do you hate?

RR: I have seen on TV and in magazines remakes of the parachute pant. I have also seen that shoulder pads are making a comeback and I am a child of the eighties so I just want to burn those!

MSA: What has been your favorite personal style moment?

RR: I was nominated, by Austin Under 40, for Person of the Years in the Arts. So I went to St. Thomas and bought a gown the night before the event. It was bad enough that I could not make it to the store until close to closing but they also had to alter the dress overnight for me to wear the following evening. It wanted it to be long enough to wear these five inch heels and be as tall as possible. I always say that I should have been born six foot.

MSA: What has been your least favorite personal style moment?

RR: Probably all of high school! The styles weren’t so lovely and I was quite a bit overweight, so add those shoulder pads to an overweight teenager and it wasn’t so pretty.

MSA: Through Rae Cosmetics, how do you want to bring style and fashion to Austin?

RR: We do a lot of style events around town. Three days after doing our last show during fashion week, we came back to participate in the Tribeza fashion show. We also did Runway to Heaven but I am really proud of the fact that we can bring fashion to people that aren’t necessarily fashionistas. Girls that want to look great everyday but without all the fuss, our make-up is great for that. Just because you’re an athlete or the girl in the board shorts you want to look pretty too and we came up with a make-up line that is great for that.

MSA: What designers did you work with at fashion week?

RR: A lot of up and comers. Christina Crawford, Jessica Joyce. The venue contacted us and provided us with mood boards from each designer that were really fun to work with. One wanted leopard print on the faces of the models. It was an awesome experience to have our logo on the red carpet and be a part of the chaos.

MSA: What is your one piece of style advice for all the women out there?

RR: Be comfortable. Don’t wear a style because that is what is in style. Wear what you fell comfortable in. If you are not a make-up girl don’t wear cat eyes or dark eyes. Exuding confidence is the most beautiful, sexy thing about a person. Man or woman it’ not the make-up or the clothes that give you that.

Biography: ABOUT ROCHELLE RAE!

Rochelle Rae is CEO and creator of Rae Cosmetics. She is an award-winning make up artist with a degree in Fine Arts and attended the prestigious Makeup Designory in Hollywood California. In 2009 Rochelle was a finalist for Austinite of the Year Under 40 in Arts and Entertainment.

Rochelle has won the “Award of Excellence” from the Association of Wedding & Events Coordinators, the “Award of Excellence for Make Up Artistry” from Austin Wedding Day Magazine and both the “Best Make Up Artist” and “Best in the Business of Beauty” awards from Austin Monthly Magazine. Rochelle has served as Director of Make Up for runway shows by designers Zac Posen and Sergio Guadarrama (Celestino Couture) in Austin TX and in New York during New York Fashion Week.

Rochelle’s line of natural mineral cosmetics, Rae Cosmetics, has won “Best Beauty Product Award” from both Rare Magazine and The Austin Chronicle. Rae Cosmetics was the sole make up sponsor of the 2009 New York Nolcha Fashion Week and has been featured by Modern Bride Magazine and over thirty other regional and national publications.

Trusted by photographers, filmmakers, models, wedding coordinators, celebrities and fashion designers alike, Rochelle has earned a reputation as a premier makeup artist and beauty entrepreneur.

Just a reminder!!!!!

Just a reminder that all next week MyStyle-Austin will be honoring Austin's Fashion 5. These are five women in Austin who have brought style to the community via their profession or simply maintain impeccable personal style. This year's honorees are: Rochelle Rae, Joanna Linden, Meredith Davis, Stephanie Coultress-O'neill, and Anna Anami. Each day next week is dedicated to an honoree featuring an exclusive interview, bio, pics, and some of their favorite Austin hot spots. Don't forget that Fashion 5 Week will culminate with an cocktail reception at Lanai next Friday, January 29th from 8-10pm. Hope to see you there and remember, style carefully!!!

Hot Fashion Find.....

Check out this zebra print spaghetti strap dress by Jonesy. Adorable and the perfect whimsical print for that afternoon of downtown shopping. Style it low by pairing it with a black cardigan and black and white python skin sandals or flats. For a cocktail look pair it with a cropped motorcycle jacket and an embellished bootie. Keep your accessories bold to complete the look. Dress by Jonesy available at Peyton's Place for $112. Style carefully!!!

Mystyle-Austin Presents: Fashion 5

Tune it next week where each day is devoted to an honoree. Read their interviews, lists of their favorite Austin spots, and more!!!

Hot Fashion Find.....

Here is one for you Austinista's. This woven cotton plaid shirt dress with lame accent by Splendid is perfect for shopping or a casual lunch with friends. Pair it with a great pair of calf length gladiators and obviously designer "it" bag for a comfortable and chic yet fashionable look. For a downtown look, wear it over a banded skirt and tank. Hype it up with accessories and and throw on a great platform bootie. Dress by Splendid available at Luxe Apothetique for $136. Style carefully!!!

Hot Fashion Find.....

Keep it casual and chic in this cotton hooded cowl neck dress by Poleci. Easy to style because of it's simplicity, add a pair of leggings and at the root, a great pair of boots. Add a belt for a more sophisticated look. For a fashion look, add a pair of neon colored or print leggings and a wedge platform at the root. Keep the bag oversized, and earth toned or go to the extreme with color. Bold accessories will complete the look. Dress by Poleci available at Missbehave for $253. Style carefully!!!

Mystyle-Austin Presents: Fashion 5

YOU BETTER WORK!!!!!

Hot Accessory Find.....

Check out this amazing clay colored bag by Marc Jacobs. Dubbed the Petal Evie Hobo, this bag can take you from the day to day to the weekend get-a-way. Bag by Marc Jacobs available at Luxe Apothetique for $548.

Hot Runway Track: Raz Ohara & The Odd Ochestra

Played at the Spring/Summer 2010 presentation in Paris, Raz Ohara & The Odd Ochestra provides the perfect track to compliment the uber chic collection displayed by fashion sophisticate, Giambattista Valli.

Hot Shoe Find.....

This shoe is a must have for every "it" girl. The beaded stingray ankle strapped stiletto, by Elizabeth and James, is the perfect compliment to almost any outfit. Style it high or style it low, it is a great addition to your shoe collection that is sure to make your girlfriend's jealous. Shoes by Elizabeth and James available at Intermix for $395.

Mystyle-Austin Presents: Fashion 5

..........Hope to see you all there!!!!!

Hot Runway Track: The Dead Weather - 60 Feet Tall

Check out this hot track that was featured at the Fendi Spring/Summer fashion show in Milan. The Dead Weather, a side project for Jack White of the White Stripes, also features Alison Mosshart of The Kills, Dean Fertita of Queens of the Stone Age, and Jack Lawrence of The Raconteurs. A mellow track to compliment the country inspired collection that Lagerfeld showcased.

Hot Fashion Find.....

Ease in the New Year with style in this graphic print dress by Trina Turk. This flirty number will have you looking chic, fashionable, and confident. Simply style it with a pair of nude patent pumps or royal purple suede pumps. Playing down the intensity of the print with youthful, urban inspired, gold accessories will complete the outfit. Dress by Trina Turk available at Luxe Apothetique for $328. Style carefully!!!

Hot Fashion Find.....

Check out this flirty party dress by Black Halo. Great for cocktails with the girls or a sexy dinner with your mate. Pair it with a great pair of black hidden platform pumps and usually I would recommend a clutch but for this I think a silver chained evening clutch is more appropriate. Dress by Black Halo available at Estilo for $378. Style carefully!!!

Austin's Fashion 5.....

I know that some of you might have heard talk around town about an up coming event honoring five fashionable women in Austin. We'll, I am here to officially state that the week of January 25 through the 29, Mystyle-Austin will be hosting Austin's Fashion 5. These are five women who have brought style to the city, to their profession, or who have consistently maintained impeccable style. These five women are: Anna Anami, Rochelle Rae, Meredith Davis, Joanna Linden, and Stephanie Coultress-O'niell with a reception on January 29th at Lanai. Stay tuned for more details!!!!!

Hottest Style Moments of 2009.....

This young French lady had that 'certain something,' at the Runway To Heaven fashion Show last November.



This model was styled high at the Runway to Heaven fashion show.



Michelle Chun looking stylish and sophisticated in Etro, at By George.



Model and entrepreneur Sabrina Ault with jewelry designer David Nakard at the Tribeza Fashion Show.



This young lady was seen at the SoLa holiday fashion show looking stylish beyond her years, like Austin's version of Tavi Gevinson.


Sure, Mystyle-Austin was launched in the latter part of 2009 but there was a whole lotta fashion going on. In no particular order, above are the top five style moments of the last three months of '09:)

Hot New Year's Eve looks.....

Here is to 2010!!!

Glamorous was the word used to describe New Years Eve at the Driskill Hotel last Thursday. The waiters served lobster B.L.T's and the champagne was flowing as the clock neared midnight. The crowd looked amazing in their best evening attire. From gowns to VMA blue carpet worthy looks, the style meter was off the charts. Groove Daddy, the evening's entertainment, kept the crowd moving playing everything from Beyonce' to Journey. If you were there you know that it was an amazing evening and if you were not able to make it, there is always next year!!!