HooplaNow Extra: watch a video tour of Mallory’s closet
Video and photos by Cliff Jette

Mallory Cink, 23, Cedar Rapids 

Marketing and Research Associate @ CR Downtown District

What are you wearing?

Top: A leather jacket from Target, with a sheer black tank top underneath from Express.
Bottom: American Eagle stonewashed torn skinny jeans
Accessories: These are my favorite killer-red Mary Jane heels that I found in a Nine West outlet store when I was in Colorado. I’m also wearing a black ring and dark silver necklace from Sarah Jessica Parker’s “Bitten” collection.

Where do you get your style inspiration from?

My style inspiration comes from my natural desire to be creative and unique with what I buy and wear. My favorite outfits are those that seem unique or at least something that you don’t see everywhere. I definitely use the expertise of my older sisters to guide me and my friend’s fabulous style sense to inspire new looks.

Who are your style icons? Why?

I absolutely love Sarah Jessica Parker. She has such a great style and isn’t afraid to take risks, which encourages me to do the same. She never fails to add luster to her outfits with a killer pair of heels or costume jewelry. I also love that she has naturally curly hair (like me), finds creative ways to wear it or even straighten or curls it, which is what I do, depending on my mood or the occasion. I just feel like I can relate to her look a little more than other women in “the spotlight.”

What is your favorite local place to find amazing pieces?

Locally, I like to shop at Target, Old Navy, American Eagle and Express. The best part of shopping at a typical chain store is finding pieces that accentuate my personality. I might have to dig a little, but I love when I find “the hidden gems” that make an outfit special or that others may not typically choose. Depending on accessories, I like to add personality to simple pieces to make an outfit look totally different from what I might see in store windows.

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

Heritage 1981 is a store that I always shop and find something fun to wear. With a vintage look to the clothing, I can always find something unique to wear there for a really great price. I depend on this store for sweet summer dresses, casual T-shirts, great accessories and jackets. I especially love shopping there for spring and summer looks to spice up my wardrobe for the warmer months.

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

Gosh, one?! I absolutely love my skinny jeans. They go perfectly with just about any shoe, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

What do you want to splurge on?

I love SHOES. I’m sort of picky about shoes but that’s because I think it’s important to find the shoe that fits everything – not only your foot. It’s got to fit the need, your style, your personality. There’s no other shopping satisfaction like when you buy a shoe that “fits.” And as much attention as I give my heels, I love finding a great flat that gives the same flair to an outfit as a fun pump. I also like Diesel tennis shoes for the fun and active days outside. My philosophy on shoes – they make you stand tall, and give you a great foundation to stand on during those tough or monumental moments, definitely worth it.

What are you willing to skimp on?

I’m always finding bargain prices for my comfortable T-shirts and under shirts. I love Old Navy’s $5 basic tanks that you can wear under any shirt, they just sort of keep everything in place, and go well under a shear top. Also, bargain-priced accessories can go a long way if you take care of them like you would you expensive pieces – same advice goes for clothing.

What kind of fashionista are you?

I’m definitely a mix of fashion tastes. I like to mix it up by wearing vintage-looking clothes with flats one day, my unique handmade dress and beautiful heels another, and Vera Wang jacket with my sleek black boots the next day. I don’t like to limit myself with one or two stores or one taste I can appreciate clothing from many genres.