I found Ashley's blog after she was sweet enough to comment on one of my posts, and instantaneously I thought - "ohmygah, love her!" Ashley hails from Dallas, TX and is currently a senior at the University of Missouri. I have to say, she's one of the best dressed coeds I know. I think you'll agree. You know when you meet someone, and you're like, 'okay...we're on the same page about things, they get it.' That's how I felt about this doll of a girl after a few emails. She's phenom.com. SideSmile Style features Ashley's outfits, trend-spotting, great cosmetic recommendations, and faves that are "on her radar." She's got an eye for what's up and coming, and she offers great ways to pair trends with classics and of course where to buy it all. Wanna know more? Me too! That's why I asked. And here's what she said...
Oh gosh, where to begin. I wanted the name to be very me, very Ashley. I played around with a few different names, but it really just had to be SideSmileStyle. SideSmile is a little phrase that my dear friend Kathryn and I have been using for years. It’s hard to fully articulate what it means because it has become so apart of our kind of short hand language with one another. A SideSmile is like a little inside joke with yourself like "I know this outfit is a little crazy but I don't care...SideSmile." Perfect example: everyone is wearing t-shirts and flip-flops and I am in a sequin mini dress with motorcycle boots (typical). I could let it make me feel out of place or I could say to myself "Oh well I look awesome, SideSmile!" SideSmile is just the inner confidence you need to have fun with fashion, be quirky, and most important wear your true self and love it.
What inspired you to start a blog chronicling your style?
I have always been very into style and everything fashion. I have been reading other blogs for years and I finally just decided to get in on the conversation. It is a very nerve racking process. To me, fashion is such a deeply personal thing. It was a little scary to put that all out there for people.
Would you say your style favors classic looks or new trends?
I would have to say my style is more classic. I definitely like to keep my hand in what's going on around me, but I know what works for me and what doesn't. I would never what to wear something that is on the "cutting edge" but just isn't me.
Do you find yourself shopping more often in-store or online? Any particular reason?
Being from Dallas, TX and living in Columbia, MO has made me addicted to online shopping. The Columbia Mall leaves much to be desired, so while I'm at school online shopping is my lifeline. When I'm home in Dallas though I prefer to go to the actual store. I'm kind of a hard fit, so nothing compares to seeing the clothes on my actual body.
Ok in my real life aka the one where I'm a student and not a billionaire, I love J.Crew, Zara, Asos, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Alice+Olivia, Neiman Marcus, 7 for all mankind, DVF, Alexander Wang(necessary luxury), anything Target GO International (I have been a fan since Luella)
And in my dream life: Chanel, Missoni, Stella McCartney, Chloe, Alberta Ferretti, 3.1 Phillip Lim, YSL, Rodarte, Marchesa, Lanvin.
That is such a hard question. I think it would have to be a five-way tie between Carrie Bradshaw, Lauren SantoDomingo, Caroline Sieber, Meredith Melling Burke, and Poppy Delevigne. Throw in the costuming from Singing in the Rain and every Audrey Hepburn movie and you basically have my heaven on earth.
Honestly for the most part what you see is what you get. I wear over sized t-shirts and shorts to work out occasionally to run errands or during finals weeks, but if I wanted to wear pajamas I'd just stay in bed. Getting ready is what motivates me for the day. I just love my clothes too much to let them sit in the closet. It's not fair to them...SideSmile.
Behind clothing and accessories, what's your next biggest beauty investment- Makeup, Hair, or Skin Care?
All three? I have very sensitive skin and I am always searching for that perfect product that won't cause irritation. Right now I am absolutely obsessed with Renee Rouleau's products. They are as natural as you can get while still being effective. I love NARS, Chanel, and Laura Mercier for make up. My best hair care secret is Elnett Hairspray. Elnett all day, everyday, always. And the travel size is perfect for a purse.
If you styled yourself for a magazine cover, what would you wear?
I would want to have a major diva moment. A vintage couture gown and some Louboutins would accomplish that I think.
Favorite Quote:"If you seek beauty you will find it." -Bill Cunningham
Ashley was kind enough to put together some of her Spring Picks for 2012 just for us. I'm especially loving the double gold cuffs, and the Sonia Rykiel polka dot top is so perfect for...well, everything.
Keep up with Ashley and all things SideSmile worthy on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and of course- follow one of my new favorite bloggers right here : SideStyle Smile.
Have a Happy Hump Day, babes.
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