How did you come up with your blog name?

Elissa: My blog focuses on encouraging women to dress as they want to, not as they should. Dress With Courage was a natural extension of that spirit. I also offer advice on wearing thrifted and vintage clothing, unique pieces that help you stand out and inspire you to be more courageous with fashion.

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

Elissa: Don't discount the benefits of thrifting and incorporating vintage into your wardrobe! Wearing thrited garments is a great way to showcase your own personal style.

3 fun facts about you:

Elissa: Thought I'm a born and bread NYC resident, I've moved eight times in the last ten years. people would be surprised to learn that I'm trained as a classical flutist, and I love to collect vintage medicine and perfume bottles.

How are you able to stay fashionable without spending a lot of $$? What are your tips and where do you shop?

Elissa: I'm a huge fan of thrift and vintage stores. Thrifting allows you to stick to a budget while wearing expensive brands. I've scored J Crew, Escada, Anthropologie, Versace and Michael Kors while thrifting. I also wouldn't discount the power of Smashion and eBay. Both sites are invaluable for bargains.

In your opinion, every woman should own:

Elissa: A colorful, bold clutch; a great fitting black blazer; a sequined, vintage top (which can be dressed up or down); and a khaki circle skirt.

A woman's most beautiful feature is her:

Elissa: Personal style.

What 5 items do you always have in your purse?

Elissa: A MAC lipstick; a notepad and pen; my iPad; old receipts and ticket stubs; and an ancient mirror from Sephora.

What are key pieces from your wardrobe that you find yourself wearing over and over?

Elissa: I have a collection of pleated skirts that I wear with everything. They look great with sandals and crop tops in summer, or tall boots and layered tops in winter.

4 things you can't live without:

Elissa: My children, my iPhone, my Kindle, and my favorite pair of platform sandals from Zara.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would play the lead role as you?

Elissa: Living or dead? I'd have to say Katherine Hepburn. The woman had spunk.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Elissa: Frozen yogurt. Oh, how I love frozen yogurt. Especially topped with chocolate chips, coconut, raspberries and Captain Crunch. Yum.

What is your favorite thing to do in the summer?

Elissa: Summers here in Dallas are sweltering! I love spending time at the pool, and meeting friends for dinner at a patio restaurant down in the city.

Three things that are always in my fridge:

Elissa: Greek yogurt, Babybell cheddar cheese,and Fresca.