What do you do when you're not blogging? What is your job?

Lori: I conduct research as a PhD student and in industry. But, when I’m not enmeshed in research, you’ll find me crafting, cooking, or scouring estate & garage sales for neat new old stuff! I also upcycle found objects (aka other people’s junk) into pretty and functional “new” items.

Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?

Lori: The what: Color. I see fantastic color combos everywhere - in plants, florist arrangements, or on tv & in magazines. I love taking a color palette and finding ways to translate it through fashion. The who: Other bloggers. I learn a lot about what styles/trends I like/don't like from people like me.

What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?

Lori: Dress for yourself and not for others. You're the person who walks around all day in the clothing. If it makes you happy to be comfortable/stylish/girly/punk/[insert adjective], it's totally worth it.

Three things in your closet you cannot live without:

Lori: I make a point of not being too attached to material things. Bodies grow & shrink; accidents happen to clothes. For me, it's ok to let things go. It's also ok for things to make me happy. But I've found that there's always another beautiful dress around the corner.

3 fun facts about you:

Lori: 1. Love to learn new things (e.g., I get really caught up in new crafting techniques). Not knowing how to do something never stops me from trying to do it 2. It makes me happy to find the perfect gift for someone 3. My parents say some of my first words were "membrane technology" (mom's a chemist)

What is the worst job you've ever had?

Lori: I did some fMRI research prior to graduate school. Surprisingly looking at cross-sections of blood flow in the brain all day made me feel a little nauseated. I guess it's good I'm not a doctor!

Favorite item of clothing in your closet:

Lori: My bright blue Kenneth Cole Reaction wool coat. The color blue is unusual and striking. Plus, the motorcycle detailing adds structure and interest while the flared-pleated skirt and belt keep it feminine. It helps that I got it on sale after ogling it at full price.

What types of items do you like to save $ on and what do you splurge on?

Lori: Um, if I could, I'd save $ on every item. As a thrifter, I've seen a lot of clothes. You can get a good idea of whether you could find a similar style/color piece 2nd-hand. So I tend to splurge on unusual pieces with special details that may be harder to find.

In your opinion, every woman should own:

Lori: A pair of 'red pumps.' By that I mean, everyone should own something that makes them feel smokin' hot and confident. For me, it's my red pumps paired with a cute skirt or dress.

Your most worn shoes:

Lori: I'm guessing the answer you're looking for doesn't include the sneakers I throw on every morning to walk my dog? ;) Other than those, it'd be my brown leather riding boots. They look great and kept me warm enough to make skirts and dresses an option in the winter.

Your most worn perfume/lotion:

Lori: Pacifica Tahitian Gardenia Tahitian Gardenia Spray Perfume.

What is your favorite thing to do in the summer?

Lori: Sit in the sun with my dog and read.