Kelsey Richards, 20, Iowa City
Marketing Intern @ Gazette Communications

Where do you get your style inspiration from?

It comes from just being observant of the people who fill my life each day. My friends will tell you I’ve compiled a sort of “expectations” list of things I look for when I go shopping. Just walking around the mall fills me with inspiration for a new outfit or a new look.

Who are your style icons?

The world of celebrity fashion has always seemed like somewhat of a distant planet to me. The closest person I have to a style icon is my boyfriend (which sounds crazy, I know) but he gives me the best fashion advice a person could ask for. I will often look to him for advice on a new top or pair of jeans because he knows me and will be bluntly honest.

What is your staple go-to store for fashion finds?

The Buckle, hands down. In no other store can I walk out with an entire outfit in hand and be completely satisfied with it. For me, buying clothes is about versatility and at the Buckle I can get a great pair of jeans and layered tops that allow me to show a different look each day and discover new outfits in the process.

What is the one fashion item you can’t live without?

I cannot live with my jeans. Right now my favorite brand is MEKs because of how comfortable they are. Definitely worth the price tag.

What do you want to splurge?

I would love to splurge on a Coach handbag. I’ve been eyeing them for years! They’re so stylish without limiting what you can wear with them.

What are you willing to skimp on?

Anything pink! Rarely will you find that color in my closet. I will also skimp on shoes. Simple is good in my book, especially when it comes to something you’ll be walking around in all day.

What kind of fashionista are you?

I don’t know if the Buckle would be considered a department store or boutique, but I think it allows me to get that look without having to pay the full price.

What fashion genre would you put yourself in? (classic/bohemian/bombshell/American/etc.)

I don’t really know if I can sit in just one category, but I would say I’m somewhere between classic and bohemian. 

What she’s wearing:

I am wearing an orange Daytrip top layered under a Daytrip tube top, which I wore as a dress (the joys of being short). The shoes are Madden Girl. Everything is from The Buckle.