Amy Lasack, 35, Anamosa
Director of Training & Outreach Services @ Kirkwood Community College
What she’s wearing
The lime green knit jacket and scoop neck Asian-inspired tank underneath are from Metrostyle.com. I paired them with a simple flared leg black trouser from Younkers and patent peek toe pumps also from Younkers. The necklace is a combination of two necklaces, both from Lia Sophia. Originally on a blue suede cord, I took the pendant and put it on another Lia Sophia necklace cord so I could coordinate the black with the outfit. The earrings are also Lia Sophia. The silver bracelet was picked up at a recent Premier jewelry party I attended.
What she says
I like to have a wide variety of accessories to choose from, so I don’t want to spend a fortune on having all expensive pieces. Fun necklaces, bracelets and earrings don’t have to cost a fortune and when you don’t spend a lot on them, it allows you to buy even more fun pieces.
Where do you get your style inspiration from?
I enjoy looking through catalogs and window shopping to get ideas. Very, very rarely do I buy an outfit that is exactly like one I see on a mannequin or in a magazine, but I do get some ideas on color combinations or shirt/jacket pairings that work well together.
Who are your style icons?
There really isn’t a person that influences the styles that I wear. I like variety, comfort and color. If I see an item that catches my eye, fits within my wardrobe and makes me feel good wearing it, then I go with it.
What is your staple go-to store for fashion finds?
I do buy a lot of my clothes at either Younkers or Dress Barn, but more and more I do a lot of catalogue and online shopping. While I love to shop, I just can’t find as much time as I’d like to go clothes shopping. I’ve found that catalogue and online shopping can be a great alternative as there is a wide variety of items. The trick is finding a catalogue/online retailer where you know how their clothes fit you so there are no surprises when your clothes arrive on your doorstep. I’ve had some problems at first with that, but now I purchase a lot from Chadwicks and QVC. I know how I fit into their clothes and very rarely have to send something back.
What is the one fashion item you can’t live without?
I love shoes and accessories. Jewelry, purses and shoes can add that something extra to an outfit that otherwise might be just another outfit.
What do you want to splurge on?
I justify spending a little extra on purses since it is something I use every single day. It carries everything I need and needs to be durable enough to handle the everyday wear and tear.
What are you willing to skimp on?
I like to have a wide variety of accessories to choose from, so I don’t want to spend a fortune on having all expensive pieces. Fun necklaces, bracelets and earrings don’t have to cost a fortune and when you don’t spend a lot on them, it allows you to buy even more fun pieces.
What kind of fashionista are you?
I’m just as likely to find something I like from a department store as I am from a boutique. As an example, I have jewelry from Target, at home parties such as Lia Sophia, QVC and local artisans. I don’t like limiting myself to one type of place to shop, the variety and mixing and matching is what makes it fun.
