Her Style: Fancy. I don’t do much casual unless I’m running errands after boxing class. I adore bright colors and patterns. I wear dresses 95% of the time. I believe you can go almost anywhere in a caftan and headpiece.
Fashion Roots: My mother was the type of person who’d go on a grocery run in a Dior dress. Her family is from Fez, Morocco, so caftans were a regular part of my childhood—and lots of gold jewelry. Both of my grandmothers had great style and were able to sew one-of-a-kind pieces that I admired.
Indispensable Wardrobe Item: Years after a traumatic accident, the first time I spoke about my recovery journey in public I bought myself a taupe patent Louis Vuitton clutch with a gold logo clasp. I carry it often to events, and it always serves as a reminder that I can do anything.
Your Favorite Designer Labels: Lilly Pulitzer, DVF, Ted Baker, FARM Rio.
Fashion Icon: Iris Apfel.
Does fashion play a role in motivation and networking?
Absolutely. When you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, it comes across in how you engage with others and in your view of yourself. Since my career involves a lot of public speaking, I need to feel like I’m a star when I get on a stage.
Best Fashion Buy: A vintage embroidered sequined caftan I purchased in Morocco.
Thoughts on Aging: I recently turned 50, and since I survived a near-death accident at age 35, I truly feel blessed every year to be living my life. I also feel like I take more fashion risks every year. I’m more and more comfortable in my body and with my personal style. I don’t care what anyone thinks.
About the outfit:
- Hair & Makeup: Mia Farah Beautique based in Drexel Hill, PA
- Lipstick: No Limit (color name) by local business and 2023 Power Woman Marcia Williams of Embellish Beauty Concepts
- Dress: Ted Baker
- Purse and shoes: Local boutique Lisi Lerch Bungalow
- Earrings: Local designer Julie Pierre of Paper Shaper by Julie. She is also a current Philadelphia Fashion Incubator designer in residence. Her pieces are all sustainable.
Thoughts on Body Types: As a curvy, plus-sized fashionista, I am happy to see more diversity in fashion than ever before. But we have a long way to go. I hope my style shows other women that you can look stylish at any size—but it is more challenging to be fashionable when you’re not a sample size. I’ve had designers and shops that want to dress me, but I can’t fit in the pieces. I love being a micro-influencer and showing that I can represent brands just as well as women who wear sample sizes.
Indispensable Accessory: Sunglasses. I have an outrageous collection of designer and vintage sunnies.
Makeup Tip Every Woman can Appreciate: If you don’t have time to do anything else, make sure you leave the house with a strong lip.
Favorite Fragrance: Jo Malone London Nectarine Blossom & Honey.
Fashion No-No: Wearing black to “hide” your size or because you believe it makes you look skinnier. I love an LBD, but I don’t shy away from bold colors and patterns, either.
Get the Look
Chase away the winter blues with fun fur and stretch leather.
Related: This West Chester Fashionista Shares Her Style Tips
