Inside My Closet

Liz Carmona, Assistant Editor, People StyleWatch, New York, NY, United States

2011-04-14T08:16:00.001-04:00

Liz Carmona is the Assistant Editor in the Features Department at People StyleWatch. A self-proclaimed "pop culture junkie", Liz has been in the magazine industry since college when she held internships at CosmoGirl, People and InStyle. Since then, she has worked as an Editorial Assistant at Elle Decor and InStyle, before landing her job at People StyleWatch. Her love of all things fashion and entertainment, paired with her love of the written word, makes her time spent interviewing style setters, writing about trends and editing layouts feel like it's hardly work at all.

Photo courtesy of Jenni Radosevich

“My closets (I have three small ones) are divided up into categories--fall, winter and spring/summer. I know I'm lucky to have the space that I have but it still really helps to stay organized. These are my winter and spring/summer closets.”

“Here you get a better view of my closet setup. It's pretty generous by NYC standards. I'm wearing my go-to outfit--BCBG skirt, American Apparel tee, long necklace and heels!”

“I'm a total accessories girl--I love costume jewelry, fine jewelry, you name it! I'm constantly switching things up, but the two pieces I always wear are a gold "L" pendant (I have 5 or 6 different ones) and my grandmother's gold and pearl ring that she gave me this past Christmas.”

“The one thing I don't have space for in my closet is my shoes--I can only fit a limited number inside, so I tend to just keep most of them lined up where I can see them. Makes for an easier selection process! I'm pretty proud of my collection. These shoes have seen some fun times!”

Describe your style.
I used to try to define my style, but, over the past couple of years, I've realized that I really can't. I think if I could best describe it, I'd say it's polished with a bit of a laid-back edge. I love to look girly and wear ruffles and florals in lightweight, flowy fabrics with sky-high heels, but I also love wearing graphic prints, plaid, a great pair of kicks (I recently designed a pretty sweet pair on Miaddidas.com) or motorcycle boots with funky accessories, like long necklaces and tons of bangles.

Who is your style icon?
I really look to Jennifer Lopez for style inspiration. She, like me, doesn't seem to define her style as being one particular way. Sometimes you'll see her in something really feminine, like pastels with delicate jewelry and she'll go really natural with her makeup, but other times she'll hit it harder and you'll see her in something glam like sequins and boots, with bold makeup. Plus, I love the way she's always carried herself as a proud, intelligent Hispanic woman. That, in itself, is very stylish.

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
For my birthday last year, my parents and my sister got me the most amazing and generous gift--a limited edition black quilted Chanel bag with a silver chain strap. It's beyond beautiful. I realize the value of a dollar, so I'm very protective of her (yes, sometimes I refer to the bag as "her"!)

What is your go-to ensemble?
I love pairing one of my black BCBG high-waisted pencil skirts with a lightweight America Apparel v-neck cotton tee tucked in, black tights (if it's cold), heels and a long necklace. It feels polished but cool.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
Narrowing it down to favorites is hard! I would say DVF, Theory, BCBG and Marc by Marc Jacobs for dresses and skirts, American Apparel for tees and leggings, Chanel and Cole Haan for bags, Christian Louboutin, Brian Atwood, Steve Madden and Pedro Garcia for shoes and Banana Republic, J.Crew and my friend Robyn Rhodes for accessories. Plus I love Topshop, H&M, Urban Outfitters--all the places you can get cool pieces at affordable prices! And Saks has an insane shoe floor if you're looking to splurge.

What was your first designer purchase?
My black and white mohair Louboutins. They mean a lot to me because they were the first designer purchase I made with my own money after I started working at InStyle. Before that, I had never made a big purchase for myself, and, since then, I try to do most of my designer shopping at sample sales. But I'll never forget sitting at Saks and trying them on... it was magical. Four years later, I still wear them and take VERY good care of them. They're classics!

What is your biggest splurge?
In addition to my black and white Louboutins, I have a few DVF dresses I love that, while not cheap, were totally worth the price tag. Her dresses are seriously made of magic and I know i'll have them forever. They fit like a dream!

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
Jennifer Lopez

What is on your shopping list this season?
I'd like to give my Chanel bag a mini companion, but I'm going to buy it as a birthday present for myself this time. I'd like to buy a smaller version of the bag I have in either cream or red, I haven't yet decided, with a gold chain strap. A good pair of espadrilles. I have a pair, but I wore them so often last summer that I think I need to retire them. I may invest in a pair from Stuart Weitzman this time around. I'm going to try out the romper this summer. I'm not sure if it will work on me, but I'm going to give it a whirl!

Name 10 important things everyone should have in their closet.
1. 2-3 black pencil skirts
2. A pair of black platform heels
3. Lightweight V-neck t-shirts in a variety of colors (you can never have too many)
4. A few pairs of fitted jeans (straight leg or skinny, whatever works for you) in a dark wash
5. A few pairs of black tights and leggings
6. 1-2 classic white button down shirts
7. A black blazer
8. A trench coat
9. Gold hoop earrings (they look good on every girl)
10. A lightweight cardigan

Share one style secret.
Don't be afraid to take it there. How you dress goes hand in hand with how you feel and how you feel goes hand in hand with your confidence level. You'd be surprised what taking a few fashion risks can do for your attitude. You never want to feel like you've boxed yourself in when it comes to your style. Try new things--if you usually wear flats, try a platform pump, if you usually go for a nude lip gloss, try a bold red lipstick, if you usually wear shift dresses, try wearing something more fitted. Not all trends work on every person, but don't shoot anything down until you've tried it. It's the biggest risks that usually yield the biggest rewards in the end!

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Micah Johnson, Freelance Stylist, New York, NY, United States

2010-07-08T16:51:00.011-04:00

Micah Johnson is a freelance stylist who has worked in the fashion industry for several years. He started off with an internship at W magazine, was fashion coordinator at Conde Nast's men's title Cargo, and most recently, was style editor at Details magazine. Since going freelance, Johnson has worked with clients such as New York magazine, the L.A. Times Magazine, Teen Vogue, and Nylon Guys, Redken, and Salvatore Ferragamo.

"This is my summer "uniform-a plaid shirt over v-neck tee, chino shorts, and running sneakers."

"I've organized my closet by color and style since high school."

"Current obsession - running sneakers - I wear them casually, and sometimes dress them up."

"My expanding collection of made-to-measure shirts (on white hangers)"

"When I HAVE to wear non-running shoes.. haha."

"Our infinite collection of magazines has expanded into the bedroom (left) but the stacks, next to the closet, serve to display this Mexican cross I got in Tulum, and this "Squelette de Lapin" poster my boyfriend bought at Deyrolle in Paris."

Describe your style.
More and more, I can describe my style as "Uniform Dressing." All day, most days, I'm thinking about putting together outfits for work, so often times, I don't want to think about putting an outfit together for myself. I have a few "uniforms" depending on the situation.

Who is your style icon?
My boyfriend Somsack and his sister Somphone, are my style icons. They are both designers and enthusiastic shoppers. They have impeccable taste, and wear high-fashion without ever looking like fashion victims. They were both born with an effortless sense of style.

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
I'm currently wearing the heck out of my Raf Simmons Fall '09 black running sneakers with fluorescent pink/orange/blue details.

What is your go-to ensemble?
Now that it's summer, I usually wear a plaid or solid colored button-down shirt over a black v-neck tee, a pair of chino shorts, and running sneakers. I'm also usually wearing my Alex & Chloe oxidized silver soda can tab necklaces.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
Raf Simmons for Jil Sander and his own label, Miuccia Prada, and Dries Van Noten. I love shopping and style-watching outside of New York City. Amsterdam, Antwerp and Venice Beach are endlessly inspiring.

What is your biggest splurge?
I used to buy way too many runway pieces from Prada.

What was your first designer purchase?
I think it was a pair of black Gucci (Tom Ford era) briefs, with a rhinestone G.

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
David Beckham. He's a style chameleon and always looks impossibly cool.

What is on your shopping list this season?
Jil Sander ivory fisherman sweater - I recently borrowed this for a shoot, it's incredible Dolce & Gabbana black distressed lace-up boots - someone FINALLY designed a pair of boots that look as good as the vintage boots that stylists constantly borrow from What Goes Around Comes Around.

Name 10 important things every man should have in his closet.
1. Self-Distressed Jeans. Buy them dark, wear them for years, and keep repairing them when they rip. Mine are Filippa K.

2. A Military-Issue Army Jacket. Military is a perennial fashion trend. Once you find the perfect jacket, you'll wear it forever.

3. Made-To-Measure Shirts. Take your favorite shirt, have someone re-cut the pattern, and get shirts made in multiple colors and patterns. Mine are from Ascot Chang.

4. Running Sneakers. And wear them outside of the gym. Bright athletic sneakers worn with a black macintosh jacket and slim navy chinos.. is a very modern look. I love New Balance and Aesics.

5. White Cotton Boxer Shorts.

6. Hooded Sweatshirts. I always have one on a plane with me.. Y-3 makes good, sturdy hoodies.

7. Chunky shawl-collar cardigans. This is the easiest layering piece during the winter months. I have a couple from J. Crew.

8. Tie Bars. A tie bar polishes off a look. Paul Stuart offers tons of nice options.

9. A Shirt-Weight Blazer. More and more designers are doing super lightweight blazers. I love that they feel as if you're not wearing a blazer when you are... my favorite is a navy one from Bottega Veneta.

10. A Signature Piece.

Share one style secret.
Enjoy fashion!

View Micah Johnson's styling portfolio on seemanagement.com.

Judy Wu, Footwear Designer, Payless Shoesource, New York, NY, United States

2010-06-07T17:50:00.007-04:00

Wu has studied and been obsessed with fashion since the minute she was able to put pen to paper. She started to draw girls with all types of different outfits. It wasn't until after her college years at Pratt that she begin her career designing shoes. After she obtained an internship at a shoe design company Wu learned the ins and outs of the footwear industry. She held positions for Vida Shoes, Steve Madden and Payless Shoesource. Wu eats, sleeps and breathes shoes now and travels the world for inspiration.

"I organized the entire closet using the Container Store ELF system."

"It has been a big space saver adding drawers on the bottom and extra rods on top. "

"My shoe closet is organized based on season... since I have limited space, I would store my boots/ winter gear away in shoe boxes in the summer and in the winter, I would store all my sandals/ espadrilles away."

"I found this container in T.J. Maxx. I think it was for office supplies."

Describe your style.
I like to think of my style as "Refined Chic". I believe in mixing high and low, not everything has to be designer, you just have to know what you can get away with.

Who is your style icon?
Carrie Bradshaw from SATC.

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
My wedding dress from Marchesa, because it changed my life in a very good way.

What is your go-to ensemble?
Boyfriend jeans, a pretty woven embroidery top and high heels.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
My favorite designers are Marchesa, Maison Martin Margiela, Lanvin and Tara Jarmon.
These shops are all great for inspiration: Dover St. Market in London, Vintage shops & Colette in Paris, Corso Como Milan, My favorite shop called Sluiz in Ibiza. My favorite places to shop are Topshop in London, American Rag in LA, Tara Jarmon boutiques in Paris and I love outlets and sample sales!

What is your biggest splurge?
My Chanel classic flap bag, it was the most expensive thing I've ever purchased, ever!

What was your first designer purchase?
A Louis Vuitton speedy handbag and it was all downhill from there!

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
Carrie Bradshaw from Sex & the City.

What is on your shopping list this season?
Strappy platform Clogs, off-white leather jacket, anything nautical inspired, that's what I am loving right now.

Name 10 important things every woman should have in her closet.
1. A little black dress
2. A printed maxi dress
3. Flat metallic sandals
4. A great pair of black pumps
5. An awesome fitting pair of jeans
6. Nude peeptoe pumps
7. A great leather jacket
8. A trench coat
9. A blazer or suit jacket
10. A bag you can wear forever

Share one style secret.
You have to mix the old with the new, the steals with the splurges, it's all about how you pull it off!

Elaine Pun, Senior Merchandiser, GapBody, Hong Kong, China

2010-05-05T12:24:00.008-04:00

For the last seven years Pun has worked at Gapbody handling sleep, lounge, swim and sport production. Before her gig at Gap, she was a rep at the HK branch of a Japanese department store. She also owned a boutique with a friend, which featured Japanese and Korean fashion.

"I am very open to try different kind of shoes but I cannot wear narrow heels."

"This rack holds all my favorite lace pieces."

"This is the closet where I store clothing that are not in season. The green basket stores small things like shawls, clutch, head accessories, belts, gloves, etc."

"I have a small apartment and I turned one of the rooms into my closet. There are three movable racks. Bags and accessories are stored inside boxes and big bags, which are placed on top of the racks and closet."

"Oh handbags! You could see my favorite lunch box, and Timmy Woods Yorkshire, the Longchamp, the Berhard W., I love them all actually."

Describe your style
Changeable, cheerful, geeky, spontaneous and emotional. I think I described my personalities instead of my style but people who know me know that my outfits reflect the inner me, and/or reflects an image what I want to present. No matter what, its originated from me.

Who is your style icon?
This Asian artist from Beijing, China— Faye Wong! She had all amazing outfit and styling on stage, magazines and all sort of performances. The movie "Chungking Express" and "2046" by "Wong Kar Wai" have captured the most stylish Faye!

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
My Chanel lunch box then. It's the Chanel wooden handbag. It had scratched marks allover and the cut out logo and brand name fell out several times but I fixed it with tape. I still love it as it carries lots of memories. I also love my GapBody cotton poplin nightshirt which is my favorite pajama. Its soft poplin and men's shirt and feel so relaxed when I wear it home!

What is your go-to ensemble?
Can I briefly recap here from Monday to Friday of last week? As I am so changeable, there is no formula at all.
4/26 A vintage rayon oversize red jumpsuit, vintage lace puff shoulder cardi, black open toe heels and a Lanvin red tote and I accessorized with studs. This necklace was amazing as it was bought in Harajuku, Tokyo about 15 years ago!

4/27 A GapBody light-weight modal top, (this actually is a sleeping gown but I cut it as a top because I like the coral color, and I cut it right that morning as I was getting dresses. Spontaneous again!) an acid wash tunic denim one piece, floral tights, strappy heels and a fringe bag. Today I felt bright and happy so I opted for color. A delightful pink shade! My favorite one!

4/28 A Japanese brand 20471120 skirt and I wore it as one piece, (It is over 15 years too!) a vintage Adidas jacket with patches crazily placed at chest, tie-dyed blue fishnet stockings, black open-toe heels and a Chloe denim shopping bag.

4/29 A zucca silk ruffle blouse, a 3.1 Phillip Lim coat in metallic silver/gold, lace ruffle petti pants, nude color tights with a snake pattern in the back, (This is cute and from ASOS!) black heels, Chanel lunch box and an adorable doll flower brooch that I wore as headband—currently my favorite decoration!

4/30 Harem jeans, a vintage lace top with a puff shoulder, (I love lace so much!) Japanese brand Undercover white lace shoes, (I have both black and white in the same style as I loved Undercover and this pairs is super comfortable!) and a butterfly basket from Old Navy.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
I grew up under the influence of Japanese culture. My idols as a teenager were all Japanese pop singers. I liked Japanese brands like: Yohji Yamamoto, Comme des Garcons, Undercover and Tsumori Chisato. Currently, I am fond of European brands like KTZ and Peter Jensen. I love the legwear of Sockbox from Latvia. I like the HK designer label "Ground Zero" which launched in England. I also like the print of Marni. The color and print coordination are always so complex but looks comfortable. There are always something special about different brands, it is hard to pick my favorite ones. I shop from small boutiques in this city. The small boutiques here usually purchase directly from other countries so it is very interesting than going to H&M or Zara. I do not like mass production at all. When I want to shop for high end brands I will search online shopping websites to see if I can find it at a lower cost elsewhere. If it is expensive then I'll wait for sales! There are a few stores which have sales shop for different designer labels. I like browsing for accessories at Etsy and ASOS. I buy handbags everywhere. Online, retail shops, vintage markets, both local and offshore.

What is your biggest splurge?
Accessories. I love accessories. Especially those cute, funky, types. I think accessories can light up a boring outfit. And accessories can always make me laugh, I don't know why. I like animals and I have quite a lot of accessories in animals design. Brands included Tatty Devine, A'N'D, Mawi, Q-pot and actually those handmade accessories in Etsy also very interesting! I am dreaming to get a Ted Noten "pig" bracelet. But it was his 2008 design. I couldn't find it anymore but I bought his pinky pig ring just now! I like handbags too, my interest in handbags are so strange. I dislike LV, I would rather spend $500 US for a vintage leather handbag from an unknown label. I once bought four handmade wooden Timmy Woods purse because I liked the dogs series. I love to keep them as a collection. I also like Margiela animal purses, but I only have the bear from the collection. I want the green dog as well.

What was your first designer purchase?
I think that was when I was about 15 or 16. My first purchase was a Ralph Lauren woven shirt.

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
Cinderella. I want to try her glass slippers, and I've always loved those super puffy dresses.

What is on your shopping list this season?
- Heels. I want Alexander Wang heels and Chanel clog
- A crew neck short sleeve white t-shirt in a simple design and jersey fabric! I hate ribbed! I prefer not too see through, not too long, slightly above or up to hip bone, not tight fit and not too loose. And it MUST be real white! Can anyone can tell me where I can get it?
- Ted Noten jewelry in an animal design
- An animal clutch. I prefer a rabbit
- A fuchsia Lulu Guinness lip clutch

Name 10 important things every women should have in her closet.
1. Clean underwear. In basic and sexy styles.
2. A little black dress. Classic and avant garde type.
3. A simple one piece.
4. Jeans. For Asian women, especially Hong Kong and Japan, it's so hard to find jeans that fit perfectly! Harem jeans, I love u!
5. A slightly boxy blazer in a light weight fabric.
6. Tights, stockings, panty hose. Formal ones and fashionable ones. It can highlight the outfit and the shoes. Tights have very interesting visual impact for me.
7. Sunglasses are needed to cover the panda eyes (dark circles) as night life here is so fascinating.
8. Sportswear. I don't like to play sports alone. Playing a sport is good.
9. Shawls are so important when you go to party or club with sexy outfit. This is needed to keep you warm and avoid body contact with people you have no interest on the dance floor or bar.
10. An article of clothing from your beloved. So whenever you miss him or her, you can put it on.

Share one style secret.
Be yourself. Its not only style secret but life secret, I think this is the only thing I can proud of. I think there are already too many things in our lives that are not under our control, I dress up when I feel good and it makes make me happy as that is no one's business. Many people may have different comments when you wear something and that may made you feel uncomfortable. You can listen to advices of some really good friends (please identify clearly), but you cannot please everybody. So my life motto - be myself. And it apply to my fashion styles as well.

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Daniel Ou, Director of Product Development, Gap, Hong Kong & New York

2010-04-26T11:25:00.011-04:00

Before relocating to Hong Kong, Ou held editorial positions at GQ, Details, FHM, Complex and Cargo magazines. He entered the design world as the Director of Global Concept at Abercrombie & Fitch. He travels across the globe in search of trends.

"I live in a service apartment in Hong Kong so this is my temporary closet - other closet is my suitcase."

"Because I'm traveling so often, my wardrobe is pretty neutral based. It's easier to mix and match, pack on the fly. The sweaters have not been on heavy rotation in Hong Kong's humid climate but they come in handy on the plane."

"I don't like heavy outerwear so I layer a lot in the winter and try to mix textures and scales in print & pattern."

"As I'm getting older and limiting my "fun" clothing options, I rely on accessories to give me a feeling of individuality."

"From Pierre Hardy to Filson, my bag choices run the gamut but they all have something in common - function and practicality."
"My love for Margiela boots runs four rows deep. I love the simple, classic shape and its versatility. If you find something that works, stick with it."

Describe your style.
Consistent, non-threatening, and neutral. But I'm trying to bring more color into my world this season!

Who is your style icon?
Every day people who are brave enough to wear how they feel inside without giving a fark. Tokyo always reminds me that fashion can be individual and fun - even in one of the most rigid societies. For women, I adore Kate Moss always and forever. But then again, she could wear a paper bag and make it look like a million bucks.

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
Margiela moto jacket because it's the right combination of classic & cool. Personally I can't pull off over the top avant garde as much as I can appreciate it. For every Lady Gaga, there is a Natalie Merchant. Ok, that wasn't the best reference but you know what I mean.

What is your go-to ensemble?
Gap t-shirt and check shirt, Rick Owens soft leather jacket or Lanvin blazer, Balenciaga slim fit jeans, Muji scarf, Margiela side zip boots, some carry-all tote, Hermès wrap watch. Rinse and repeat. Have you fallen asleep yet?

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
Gap (ok fine I'm a little bit biased but it's true), Margiela, Balenciaga, Rick Owens, Neil Barrett, Comme Des Garcons, and some Tokyo brands - J.S. Homestead for wovens and Mr. Hoolywood for knits. Oh and some more recent discoveries: Greyhound in Bangkok - very chic, playful and Izzue & I.T. in Hong Kong for the latest trends in this part of the world.

What is your biggest splurge?OMG too embarassing - probably Guidi boots from Atelier. They're like butter and they fit so snug, I feel like they're my hooves.

What was your first designer purchase?
OMFG almost too embarassing to say - Drakkar Noir cologne, Z Cavaricci pants, and a swatch. We all start somewhere and I was living in Kenya at the time.

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
Anna Wintour only because I want to share the loot with my girl friends. I'm happy with what I have myself. OK, I would secretly love to raid Keith Richard's closet. My inner rock and roll persona is dying for a bit of his swagger and style.

What is on your shopping list this season?
- Rick Owens leather jacket
- Lanvin denim high tops
- An all-black Rolex
- The new Gap skinny jeans for Fall

Name 10 important things every male should have in his closet.
1. A lightweight fitted wool blazer
2. 100% cotton white button down shirt
3. Slim cut jeans
4. Clean underwear
5. A seasonless and simple leather jacket
6. Aviator sunglasses
7. Skinny khakis
8. Cedar blocks
9. Some restraint
10. Unscented febreeze

Share one style secret.
Buy your size (not one you strive for) and get to know a good tailor. Invest in quality, not quantity. You can't take it with you anyway so might as well get things you can have for a long time and pass off to your kids or friends.

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Kofi Yankey, Style Editor, Ralph Lauren, New York, NY, United States

2010-04-24T19:43:00.009-04:00

Describe your style.
I have a very classic sense of style. Very buttoned up, no frills approach to dressing.

Who is your style icon?
Slim Keith really was the epitome of style. I love love love the way she always looked so effortless and put together.

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
I am obsessed with my Jil Sander tailcoat. The cut and fit is perfect and it goes with everything, be it jeans on the weekend or tailored pants for work.

What is your go-to-ensemble?
Always a white button up shirt, lace up Lanvin brogues, slim fitting trousers and a cardigan.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
I cannot stop raving over Phoebe Philo’s collections for Celine. Its pure perfection. Either she starts a menswear line or I am purchasing pieces from the women’s. Miuccia Prada’s men’s line always has me palpitating. Balenciaga. Burberry (Prorsum obviously). Lanvin. Dries Van Noten.

I am obsessed with Uniqlo. I own so many of their white shirts as the fit is perfect! Barneys gets my heart racing, Jeffrey for their shoe selection and Kesner in the West Village has an amazingly edited selection of clothing. Cos in London is amazing for basics, Browns is always a must and Dover Street Market is heaven!

What is your biggest splurge?
My shoes! I can never get enough. Whenever I go into a store, I have to come out with a pair or two. At least!

What was your first designer purchase?
Not surprisingly, they were shoes. My parents got me a pair of Ferragamo shoes for my first communion and I have never looked back.

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
Because I tend to be more conservative, I think I would want to trade with someone who is completely the opposite of me. Lapo Elkann always looks amazing. One never gets bored looking at his get-ups. Plus, he has a great sense of color and fit. Hamish Bowles comes in a very close second.

For accessories, my dear friend Mickey Boardman will have to let go of his statement necklaces for a few hours. He has amazing pieces that only he can pull off and I am coveting his new Fendi tote bag and Selima sunglasses!

What is on your shopping list this season?
- Bottega Veneta’s army green shorts and matching shirt I saw in a spread for Chinese Vogue.
- More Lanvin oxfords
- A long wrap cardigan from Rick Owens
- The most important piece though would have to be Celine’s “luggage” bag in navy blue calfskin leather and suede croc, that I have been trying to track down for ages. Forget any store in America and Europe, and I have called all the Celine stores in Japan and half of Asia, and currently trying my luck in the Middle East. This particular combination of color/fabric/size is hard to find!

Name 10 important things every man should have in his closet.
1. White oxford shirt
2. Dark denim (never distressed)
3. A pair of lace up oxfords
4. A watch
5. Classic sneakers a la Lanvin and Dior Homme (They are the only ones that pass muster.)
6. A a well tailored blazer
7. Trench coat
8. Classic sunglasses (Ray Ban Wayfarers)
9. A slim fitting gray suit
10. A structured leather tote or briefcase

Share one style secret.
You can never go wrong with a crisp white button up shirt. It always makes you look put together, whatever the adventures you partook in the night before.

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Elizabeth Kiester, Owner/creative director: Wanderlust, Siem Reap, Cambodia

2010-04-19T00:13:00.007-04:00

Before relocating to Cambodia, Kiester made her mark in fashion, working at various women's publications. She began her career as an assistant at Mademoiselle, then moved on to Seventeen, Marie Claire then as a fashion director for YM and JANE. Her credentials also include styling and consulting for various brands, magazines, catalogs and beauty companies. She became the Director of Women's Global Concept at Abercrombie & Fitch. Then after jetsetting across the world, she became the Global Creative Director for LeSportsac and developed the Stella McCartney for LeSportsac collaboration.

"There are no "closets" in houses in Cambodia—so a rack suffices. From my days as an editor, I always organize my clothes by color, and within that color, things are hung together by style—all camis together, short sleeved tops, long sleeved shirts, etc. It makes finding what i am looking for getting dressed in the morning really simple and easy. I am super duper tidy and neat."

"Since I wear dresses most of the time, I have tons. and I keep them on a rack in the guest bedroom in my house—which of course, leaves no place for my guests to hang stuff! These, too, are organized by style and by color. I keep all my handbags in a trunk, all in dust covers, but admittedly, I am not much of a "bag changer". I use the same bag for months, get sick of it, and then switch. I don't bother with matching my bags to my outfits."

"I love accessories and the piles overtake everything. On my dresser is this huge bowl of bangles, and within the silver container, is piles of earrings. I even use the necklace—which i have tons of—as decoration, since I think it's so cool."

Describe your style.
Eclectic yet simple; trend conscious but not trendy; a minimalist maximumist.

Who is your style icon?
Iris Apfel

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
I have a Helmut Lang down cape that I bought at a sample sale a zillion years ago that doesn't see much action in Cambodia, however, I will never, ever part with it.

What is your go-to ensemble?
My own wanderlust dress style, called "sumatra" which is an oversized men's shirt but cut for a chick--it's a popover style and, it has the essential pockets, is super comfy but not sloppy. (I hate sloppy!!!). I own it in a zillion different stripes and checks and wear it over skinny jeans, on it's own, over leggings, over a bathing suit. It's easy. and I accessorize it differently every time I wear it. I LOVE accessories, and the more, the merrier I am.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
I love Isabel Marant, Yohji, Comme des Garçons, Ann Demeulemeester, Marni and old Helmut Lang. but I also love Gap, Madewell, Club Monaco and Urban Outfitters and shop at those stores a lot when I am stateside. but mostly, I shop from my own stores!

What is your biggest splurge?
Shoes. I know, every girl says that, but it's a necessary indulgence. and even I can somehow justify buying 5" platforms although I live in Cambodia, and somehow it all makes sense.

What was your first designer purchase?
I have never been someone who was obsessed with "designer" clothes--I just like what I like, and that can be from just about anyone, anywhere. I do recall saving a lot of money when I was 18 to buy a pair of "guess" jeans with zippers at the ankles and being very proud of those.

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
Jennifer Connelly, hands down, definitely.

What is on your shopping list this season?
- When I go home to the U.S., I'm going straight to American Apparel to buy their stretchy tube bras, because 98% of my time now is spent in a hot climate-- I wear strappy camis a lot and I wear these bras every single day. so this is my #1 purchase. again, keeping in mind the hot climate,
- I always need new bathing suits, so I will hit Gap and J. Crew to pick up a few of their always-cute bikinis, since bikinis don't really exist in Cambodia.
- Back to my own shops to get my new "Malibu" shirt dresses, a couple of pairs of my "sunshine bay" black pants--they're slim, pull-on but super duper chic/simple--and lots of them!

Name 10 important things every woman should have in her closet.
1. A variety of dresses. I wear dresses all the time--mostly from wanderlust, of course-- but I wear them in unexpected ways, and I use them as layering pieces--over jeans, over leggings, even over a pair of big men's broken in chinos!, Under cardis, with a jacket, with knee high boots, with Chuck Taylors, tossed on over a swimsuit, pressed and smart for a nice night out. They're the most versatile thing in any girl's wardrobe.
2. A good season-less tote bag. Yes, "it" bags are fun and cool and all of that, but a great tote is really what everyone needs and uses.
3. Dark straight leg jeans. Okay, have the jean of the season if you wish, but a good straight leg jean with a low-ish rise is something that will never go out of style.
4. A great white shirt but one that's not too trendy but not too classic. I have one from the J.Crew men's department that I wear all the time and it's great dressed up and it's even better dressed down.
5. Converse Chuck Taylors low tops in black and white. essential. essential. essential. cute with everything and super comfy, of course. and always, always cool.
6. A black blazer. I have one from Comme des Garçons and it's become my go-to item for a zillion different reasons.
7. A mildly oversized v-neck cardigan in black and navy.
8. Black flat front 3 season trousers. I have a lightweight wool pair from club Monaco that look amazing all the time, and I've had them for years.
9. Statement jewelry. doesn't have to be expensive--on my site, we have loads of things well under $20-- and I like mine fun and a bit kooky. a great necklace or some dynamic earrings or a stack of bright colored bangles can make a plain outfit look incredibly cool without much effort.
10. a variety of bras of different styles--tube, racer back, etc. I am so OVER seeing bra straps hanging out of camisoles!

Share one style secret.
Dress for yourself and not for anyone else! If you feel good, it shows in your face, your walk, your attitude and demeanor!

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Desireé Marr, Life & Style Weekly Market Editor/Writer and Freelance Stylist, New York, NY, United States

2010-04-15T11:46:00.008-04:00

Describe your style.My style is a bit bi-polar. Sequins with ripped jeans, girly tomboy. Janet Giovanelli, Style Director of Life & Style Weekly once told me that I always dress like I am going to a party (because in my mind I am). Similarly I recall a glittery vintage dress that Kim France, Editor-in-chief of Lucky, once said made me look like a disco ball. Heels ALWAYS--not even a question.

Who is your style icon?My style icon is model Erin Wasson. I covet her ability to combine high-end fashion with street style for an unmistakable and effortless urban aesthetic. Fitted blazers with jean shorts is always a hit in my book!

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?I appreciate sentimental pieces. My grandmother Pat Marr, the most stylish woman ever born in Ingomar, Montana is an accessory maven. I have "borrowed' many pieces of her jewelry and cannot live without her electric purple, eel skin purse.

What is your go-to ensemble?My go-to ensemble is a boyfriend blazer or leather moto jacket, sheer loose Kain tank, fitted mini, sky-high ankle boots, patterned tights and tacky cocktail rings.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?My favorite designers are Chloé, Balmain, Lanvin, Madewell, Topshop, Karen Walker, AllSaints, Preen, Malandrino, Gary Graham, The Cushnie et Ochs girls are friends and are amazing- especially being as young as they are! Alice + Olivia for party frocks. Loving Cynthia Steffe and Leyendecker at the moment. Tucker dresses are retro-chic for Fall. Brian Atwood, Giuseppe Zanotti, Jeffrey Campbell, Dolce Vita, L.A.M.B., Topshop and Pour La Victorie for shoes. Nine West still kicks butt. Loeffler Randall for boots and Cynthia Vincent for sandals. I rarely ever shop since I do it all day. I generally shop online and visit shopbop.com, ebay.com and saks.com to hit them all at once. Bloomingdales, Madewell, Barney's Co-op, Topshop, Opening Ceremony and Zara are all within walking distance from my apartment so I have been known to pop in. I also love Tokio 7 in the East Village and Pixie Market in the Lower East Side.

What is your biggest splurge?My biggest splurges are still sample sales or gilt.com at greatly reduced pieces. I refuse to pay retail and consider myself a great "bargain" shopper (I am cheap). I waited six months for the metallic silver Rag & Bone jacket that Charlize Theron wore and finally found it for less on gilt.com. I also walked out with the most artsy Louboutins ever at a sample sale- they retailed for almost $1,600 and I got them for $200--straight off the models feet from the Philip Lim 3.1 runway show.

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?If I could trade closets it would be with the Joan Collins' character- Alexis Morrell Carrington Colby Dexter Rowan. In real life, Kate Moss or Alexa Chung (love me some stylish Brits!) Rachel Zoe as well, mainly because I heard she has a sick vintage collection and I would love to borrow her Halston. Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Chloe Sevigny and Blake Lively would also be fun.

What is on your shopping list this season?
- Floral denim shorts (I am going to be brave)
- Cut-out dresses (VERY brave)
- Rolled chinos
- A chic beach hat
- ANOTHER utility jacket
- Nude wedges
- Knee-high schoolgirl socks
- Pour la Victorie bag
- Malandrino jewelry

Name 10 important things every woman should have in her closet.1. Boyfriend blazer
2. Classic trench
3. Tuxedo or smoking jacket
4. Leather moto jacket
5. Straight-leg black pants
6. Round-toe platform pumps
7. Classic white button down
8. Comfy yet FLATTERING jeans
9. Slimming structured black dress
10. Chic flat walking boots

Share one style secret.I carry a key chain of fashion tape wherever I go. Someone, somewhere, always has an undergarment they need covered, a bad fit they need fixed, a loose hem they need replaced, etc. and it always comes in handy!

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Paul Francis Avarali, Market Editor, Details Magazine, New York, NY, United States

2010-03-31T11:58:00.015-04:00

"The shoes that hang on the door are my everyday go-to’s. I recently swapped out my fall boots for my s/s sneakers and put the boots back in their boxes."
"On the floor, are my work bags. A brown leather Bally messenger. Brown leather Jack Spade bag. Black canvas and leather Burberry tote. Black leather Surface to Air tote. Olive canvas and brown leather Hugo Boss tote. Cardigans are folded in the cubbies. All other sweaters are housed in my dressers."
"Shirts are arranged by color. Suits and sport coats are kept in garment bags in my second closet along with all of my jackets and coats. Shoe boxes are kept for easy storage, easy finding and resale value."
"Here, you can see my weekenders. Three different sizes. A large navy leather and canvas Longchamp bag, a medium sized, soft leather Ermenegildo Zegna bag and a small leather and nylon Tommy Bahama bag. Also, my ties—all 123 of them hanging on wooden hangers organized by color."

Describe your style.
Casual elegance, laid-back. I like to be comfortable, but always somewhat refined—whether it's in the softness of a cashmere sweater or the sharp tailoring of a sport coat.

Who is your style icon?
Stefano Pilati has this sort of swagger that I really admire. He’s always so loose and casual, but beyond chic and completely masculine—like all of these luxurious layers, everything, just sort of fell on him and landed in the most elegant way possible.

Also, my grandfather, Francesco Morgese —he was incredibly handsome, had almost jet black hair with this lightening bolt streak of white/grey that went from the front of his hairline to the back. It was natural, of course, but so amazing. I’ve kept some of his vintage ties, some old wool cardigans, Harris Tweeds and his Airforce uniform pieces.

What is your favorite piece in your closet and why?
Probably my Burberry trench. I wear it every day.

What is your go-to ensemble?
Cashmere cableknit crewneck sweater or DKNY cardigan, jeans, t-shirt, JV Converse or distressed leather boots, thin scarf, trench.

Who are your favorite designers and where do you like to shop?
Ralph Lauren, Veronique Nichanian for Hermes, Christopher Bailey for Burberry, Massamiliano Giornetti for Salvatore Ferragamo, Simon Spurr

I shop Barneys and Bergdorf’s mostly. Also the Ralph Lauren Mansion, Odin and Topman for the slim basics.

What is your biggest splurge?
It’s funny, I think I spend a lot on footwear, but I always end up wearing the same shoes from seasons past.

What was your first designer purchase?
My first designer experience was the Burberry polo’s my mom bought me as part of my private school uniform. The first purchase on my own was this tacky, D&G salmon and white striped dress shirt with a big D&G logo on the back. Everything becomes clearer in retrospect.

If you could trade closets with one person for a day, who would it be?
Stefano Tonchi, former editor of T and current editor of W. He’s always so appropriately dressed. Elegant. Comfortable.

What is on your shopping list this season?
- Navy Jil Sander cotton and nylon trench
- Ralph Lauren cashmere cableknit sweaters
- Thin DKNY sweaters
- Cheap Monday jeans
- A denim jacket
- New pair of Ray-Ban Aviators

Name 10 important things every man should have in his closet.
1. Trench
2. Oxford Shirt
3. Sport Coat
4. Dark Suit
5. Oxford Lace-up Shoes
6. Classic, low-top sneakers
7. Distressed leather boots
8. Clean, dark jeans
9. Distressed leather jacket
10. Good watch

Share one style secret.
When in doubt, less is more. You’ll always look sharp and be well received if you don’t try too hard—style should be effortless for a guy. Oh, and stop washing your hair so often, trust me.

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