Nice Drip | April 2024

DISCOVERING YOUR PERSONAL Drip

You don’t need to break the bank to fund your drip! You know what my number one hack for fashion will always be? I pretty much only look at the sale section whether it is in person or online shopping. Does that mean I may miss out on the hottest trends? Most definitely, but it also allows me to wait out the trend and if I’m still interested in the piece of clothing after the trend dies, then I know it is something valuable to MY personal style! You’d be amazed at what high quality pieces you can get for the same price of some fast fashion pieces, as long as you practice patience! Don’t sleep on second hand! Whether you’re going to the thrift store yourself or utilizing re- seller apps like DePop, Poshmark, Mercari, or Ebay, you can get some amazing clothing pieces for a fraction of the original cost! I personally col- lect and wear vintage clothing, so I love the thrill of finding something second hand that I know is unique and of high quality. Second hand is also another great way to shop sustainably and keep clothing out of the land fills! Functional and Fashionable CAN go hand in hand! Many people have two sets of wardrobes: their work wardrobe and personal wardrobe. I like to say that I don’t have the closet space for two different wardrobes, ha! Your personal drip shouldn’t be something that is hidden while at work. Personally, anyone that works with me would tell you that I don’t wear my Sunday’s best at work, but I do try to only wear things that make me feel comfortable and confident. Stiff work pants? Not on my watch, especially when I work in the foodservice industry! Uncomfort- able work shoes? I’ll take a hard pass. I may not be “traditional” in how I dress for work, but I don’t think being a capable professional means you need to feel stiff and uncomfortable. When - ever I purchase something for work (especially conferences), I try to only purchase pieces that I would also wear outside of work. Bonus Tip: the most functional statement pieces I own? My pre- scription glasses! I love wearing vintage glasses with my eye prescription to add a little pop to my day to day outfits! Find inspiration without boxing yourself in! If you’re not sure where to start when finding your own personal style, start by looking around you for inspiration whether that is online, tele- vision, movies, magazines, or personal rela-

tionships you have. Some people have such a strong sense of personal style, that they don’t veer very far away from their signature look, but understand that doesn’t have to be you! May- be one day you’re feeling more sporty and the next you’re feeling more classic or preppy; that is okay! Your fashion will evolve over time and it’s okay to let go of certain features of your style while holding onto others as you grow into your future self. Need some examples? Here are some pictures of my personal drip including where I wore the outfit and why I chose the outfit I did. Pro Tip: take pictures of your outfits to reference again in the future!

Event: Illinois School Nutrition Association’s 2024 Winter Conference Why? I absolutely adore these pants! They’re a velvet paisley trouser and they make such a statement that I kept every- thing else super simple with a black turtleneck and black suede boots. I love investing in fun trousers, because I can wear them for both work events and personal events!

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