Sarah Specht, 27, Cedar Rapids

Sales and Marketing @ Mailing Services Inc.

Independent Stylist @Stella & Dot

Q: What are you wearing?

A: An asymmetrical dress by free people. I paired the dress with black tights and BCBG shoes from Von Maur. The Jasmine Filigree Earrings are from my Stella & Dot collection as well as the Kelly Cuff.

Where do you get your style inspiration from?
Fashion Magazines and other people. I really make sure that I don’t try to wear “what‘s in” if it does not look good on my body shape. I try to dress in clothing that makes me feel confident.

Who are your style icons?
 Jackie O: For the classic look more of my business style. Beyonce: For being able to pull off some fun and daring looks, ones I wouldn’t know if I could try or not but I like that she takes risks. Reese Witherspoon also has a great everyday looks.

What is your favorite local place to find amazing pieces?
 I like to shop at Von Maur. I also have recently started selling jewelry with a company called Stella & Dot, which is boutique style jewelry at a fraction of the cost. I also host in home truck shows, where I bring the jewelry to your house and you are able to see and try it on for yourself. For more info on any of the jewelry pieces I wore in the photos, go to www.stelladot.com/sarahs

What is your staple go-to store for fashion finds?
Von Maur, I like the Contemporary section. They have more of a limited stock and I like knowing that 17 other people won’t be out with my shirt on. Also Target is an ok quality for the cost you are getting it at.

What is the one fashion item you can’t live without?
Great pair of jeans. I wear jeans the most so I am always looking for that perfect jean. Right now I am in love with William Rast jeans. They just have a great fit.

What do you want to splurge on?
Shoes, jewelry, handbags….is that too many? I would love to have a pair of Christian Louboutins but can’t find a reason to spend $700 on shoes.

What are you willing to skimp on?
Socks. I think socks are socks and not really made to be a fashion statement but more to be practical. So I would skimp on socks.

What kind of fashionista are you?
(Department store/local handmade/vintage/boutiques/designer labels/mix?) I am a mix. I can shop at department stores but get frustrated that you look like everyone else. So I like to mix it up and shop on online sites like Zappos, Nordstroms, American Apparel, and Victoria’s Secret.com (has great dresses!)