In Val’s Words: My 6 Style Icons

Ever wondered where I get my fashion inspo from?

I think inspiration can come from many places. I think I’ve been inspired by many artists, creatives, and important cultural figures since I was a teen.

I thought it was time (in an effort to get to know me better) to reveal who these five style icons for me are, when it comes to fashion. They’ve pretty much remained the same five people since I was 12 or so.

Plus, it’s a gloomy day and I’m home alone right now typing this in the middle of a job transition – so hey, I’ve got time to kill.

Let’s do this? Meet my style icons. Meet the ones who inspire my choices in fashion.

  • Steven Tyler: A man whose music I’ve adored since 10, and I can’t deny that his scarves, accessories, and flowy fashion sense have made an impression on me. You’ll probably notice Axl Rose here too. He’s an honorable style icon mention for sure too!
  • Josephine De La Baume: A French rocker, model, and actress, who isn’t afraid to break the barriers. She’s my kind of girl. Somehow she just seems to make the whole “rocker chick” thing a little more classy. I take a lot of notes on how to style a blazer from her.

Steve Nicks: Queen. Icon. End of conversation. Okay, I’m kidding – I’ve got more to say about her. Obviously she’s been a fashion icon for decades. I appreciate how she’ll accessorize a look (the hats tho!), and that she’s not afraid to style black in a classy and feminine way. If I’m needing some witchy vibes, or a polished rock n’ roll look, I refer to her.

  • Kat Von D: While she’s a controversial figure to some, I’ve always admired her honesty and fashion sense. She has no problem incorporating sustainable and cruelty-free fashion into her wardrobe – and she makes it look very rock n’ roll! I like her laid-back California vibes with a touch of edge. In the summer time, I like to refer to her fashion sense.
  • Kurt Cobain: While he certainly didn’t want to create (or start) a fashion trend, we’re kidding ourselves if we don’t acknowledge the fact that his grunge uniform was an iconic 90s staple. His “uniform” was flannel and jeans with fun sunglasses or hats. Sound familiar? Yep. I’m guilty of rocking that look year round.
  • My grandmother: Her name was Mary. She passed in 1990. What a classy lady! When I need vintage style inspo, I pull out a scrapbook and check out old pictures of her. She loved a nice outfit, and always chose one that was polished and functional.

All of these style icons are not afraid to experiment with their looks, show some edge, accessorize, or class it up when they need to. While their look has evolved, they’ve ultimately stayed true to their wardrobe staples (be it the color black, animal print, or using scarves) for decades. That’s what I admire about them.

Who are your style icons?




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