Find Your Signature Style
Each of these four working women is known for her just-right personal style. Nab their secrets and create a look that's totally you.
By Sarah Z. Wexler
Top, $845, Alberta Ferretti; skirt, $1350, Bill Blass; shoes, $695, Valentino.
Interiors by
Janine Carendi MacMurray, AREA Interior Design
Photo Credit: Perry Hagopian
Special Offer
LOOKING GREAT GETS PERSONAL: From pearls to peep toes, four women discuss their signature style.
"What I look for in vintage furniture is what I also want in clothes: great construction and a timeless design." - JANINE CARENDI MACMURRAY, INTERIOR DESIGNER, AREA Interior Design
THE LOOK: Architectural
HER STYLE MANTRA: "Understated elegance that is absolutely beautiful but never screams, 'Look at me!' It's all about silhouettes."
WARDROBE STAPLES: "Solid, neutral dresses, skinny trousers, and pencil skirts paired with colorful handbags, especially in Kelly green. I love buying heels--with stilettos and peep-toes, the higher the better."
SO NOT HER STYLE: "Pastels. Appliqués. Ruffles and frills. Any pattern that's not bold, graphic, or geometric. And if anyone saw me in yellow, they'd be very surprised."
HER INSPIRATION: "I was born in a Mexican silver-mining town, so I still wear lots of silver jewelry, chunky necklaces, and cuffs. What I look for in antique furniture is what I also want in vintage clothes: great construction and a timeless design."
PUTTING IT TOGETHER: "Just like a room, clothes have to be beautiful but livable. I recently decorated a bedroom all in black and white, and then added a bright-red chair. I do the same with splashes of color in my clothes."
JANINE'S STYLE TIPS:
- Declutter your closet as you would your home. You can have the best labels, but if you have too much stuff in the closet, you're never going to rediscover something.
- Don't go head-to-toe trendy. Nothing's worse than walking into a client's home and being able to date it - the same goes for your wardrobe.
- Wear classic pieces and try trends in your accessories. Remember: It's hard to change the couch, but it's easy to change the pillows.
