Style is not just about clothing and trends. It is a form of self-expression influenced by many factors…some we might not be aware of. For instance, how does your location affect your style? I am not only talking about what you pack for a trip. The city you live in holds so many nuances to inspire your style. Today I am sharing with you how my current city, Houston, influences my style. This is part of a collaboration with a fabulous group of bloggers. Make sure you read to the end to view their style and enter our giveaway.

I like to view my style as a medium through which I exercise and enhance my creativity. It started as a hobby and evolved into a signature persona. It is a mixture of 1950s classics, 1970s attitude, and futuristic sparks. It is a blend of chic, afrocentric, and retro. I have been told my style resembles Janelle Monae and Solange. They both are on my list of inspirations, along with Audrey Hepburn, Esther Quek, Lena Horne, Miranda Priestly, Diana Ross, and many others.

Houston is a big city. The 4th largest in the nation to be exact. Just like preparing for a trip, the weather and mode of transportation are the two main factors in planning your outfits. In Houston, the weather likes to play games. In one day we can go from a thunderstorm to sunny and clear to dry and windy. Next we can go for a week or two with beautiful spring or fall weather. Most people drive everywhere and the only time spent outside is intentional. Thus, fashionista’s in Houston have a keen eye in creating outfits that work with shifting temperatures and the need for comfort.

Living in Houston has added another dimension to my wardrobe by helping me feel comfortable in casual clothes. I know that sounds weird, but hear me out. In high school I repeatedly wore graphic tees, jeans, and fake converse. When I left for college, and left Texas, I wanted that next chapter to not be high school part 2. That included changing my wardrobe. I grew to prefer dressing up and got so good at it that I could put together stylish outfits everyday without skipping a beat. This also meant that the casual section of my closet faded away.

I think part of being a successful fashionista is being open to what new places can offer you. There is a time and place for everything. Looking like a futuristic Mary Poppins does not work everywhere, but I think it is always appreciated at special occasions (right?). This does not mean you should try to blend in. On the contrary, you should try to have fun. Style in Houston is unique. There is no one-size-fits-all uniform to be considered stylish. I have seen a range of fabulous looks from cowboy boots to grunge jackets to dapper suits to urban chic to thrift elegance. There is room to create your own niche. Some trends I am looking forward to in Houston for the Spring include: Spanish floral patterns and light weight denim.

Since this is my first post for the new year, we must take a moment to claim it. My intention for 2016 is to restore. I feel like I have paid my dues: unfair, just, and self-imposed. I want to be open to the happiness I have earned. I will share more on how this pertains to my personal life in a later post. For my blog life, I am cheering for more inspiration, collaborations, and fun in 2016. What are your intentions for 2016? Let me know in the comments below.

Wearing: Thrifted scarf, The Limited sweater, New York & Company skirt, DSW purse, DSW shoes, Girl Talk watch, Zig Zag ring

Photos by Tiffany Couture Photography

Remember that collaboration I told you about at the beginning of this post? Well, “My Style + My City” is a collaboration I created to meet new bloggers and showcase others work. I wanted to see different interpretations of style from around the world. Here are the fabulous bloggers who participated. Make sure to check out their blogs and show them some love.

• Stile.Foto.Cibo by Dannie – Chicago
• My Life From Home by Amy – Cincinnati
• Baydian Girl by Tamara – Columbus
• The Prep Pursuit by Devoreaux – Dallas
• Silly Crazy Me by Thays – Orlando
• The Rossetto Blog by Emily – Oxford

Giveaway (closed)

As a token of our appreciation and an effort to encourage you to achieve your best in 2016, we are giving one lucky reader a 2016 Erin Condren Life Planner. Click here to enter. Good luck!