A SIT DOWN WITH STYLE BLOGGER, KAITLIN OBERMEYER

Meet HerCampusKU’s newest Style Blogger, Kaitlin Obermeyer! Kaitlin attends KU from her hometown of St. Louis to major in Photography and Strategic Communications. I asked her some questions about life, fashion and photography:

Ashley : What do you consider your closet must-have?
Kaitlin: Heeled booties, I’m somewhat of a shoe addict.
Ashley: Purse must-have?
Kaitlin: I love my little boxed satchel from Francescas. It is the perfect carry-all item.
Ashley: What is the one item you can’t live without?
Kaitlin: Liquid eyeliner.
Ashley:  In a crunch or just for casual shopping, what is your go-to store?
Kaitlin: Anything on (KU’s) Massachusetts Street: White House Black Market, Urban Outfitters, and Francescas.
Ashley:  Do you have a favorite brand?
Kaitlin: Similar to my favorite stores; White House Black Market and Urban Outfitters.
Ashley: What is your go-to date outfit? I want every detail!
Kaitlin: Jeans and booties. I like to keep it casual and fun so it’s a little flirty but not intimidating.

When asking Kaitlin more about her fashionable past and present, she explains her mom is her fashion inspiration. She states, “I think my mom is more fashionable than me sometimes.” Kaitlin is often seen her mother’s fun and funky clothes from the ‘80’s, looking cool and stylish. However, Kaitlin’s style is versatile and often rocks the rocker-chic look in denim and motorcycle boots. Since she is a photography major she focuses on snapping pictures more than standing in front of the camera. Her favorite photographer is fashion guru, Nigel Barker, most popular for his spot on America’s Next Top Model.

Ashley: So, can you sum up your style in a few words?
Kaitlin: Each day is different.

Pictured: Kaitlin rocks White House Black Market jeans, and Express top and her go-to Nine West booties.

Where to find her: Kaitlin will be contributing weekly to Her Campus KU’s Style Blog. You can also find her in her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, as the Purchasing Coordinator and a part of the Photo Media Student Advisory Board. Kaitlin is also the photographer for KU’s STAC and a worship and social team member of Christian Crusade.

Check out her work here: http://www.behance.net/Obermeyer

WORK TO PLAY: CLOSET STAPLES

I figured out quickly college will never be an equal balance of work and play. To me, it feels like 1 hour of play for every 10 hours of work. That is something no one will tell you when you move your entire closet into your 3x4 dorm closet. Leave those trendy, one season clothes behind and stick to the basic with a few statement pieces. Whether you're still making it through the best four years of your life or the real world has come your way, fashion doesn't have to stray away when you're working a 8-5 day. Check out these simple transitions from work to play with common closet staples.

The Oxford

Oxford: American Eagle.
Skirt: Cotton On.
Necklace: Premier Designs
Nude Heels: Target. Vest: Banana Republic.
Weave Heels: Jeffrey Campbell. Jeans: ASOS

The oxford is a common closet blouse and a must have for fashion savvy busy bees. Considering the oxford is so versatile, it is easy to take it from work to play in a quick change. Start with a statement necklace you can envision in both environments, this dresses up a plain oxford. I love lacey skirts, any business, casual skirt in general will work with an oxford, I chose a coral color for contrast and finished off the look with nude heels.
Take it to the streets: High waisted is in again, cue the '90's. I love my black, high waisted pants from ASOS.com! Jeffrey Campbell is my number one shoe designer; check out these weaved ones that are my prized possession accompanied by another winter trend: fur. This fur vest was presented to me on Christmas and comes from Banana Republic.

 LBD

Dress: Forever 21. Kimono: Free People. Flats: Target.
Necklace: Charming Charlie.

Dress: Forever 21. Vest: BP. Shoes: Target.
Necklace: Charming Charlie.

Okay, so this may be an easy one but the little black dress is a must for simple, classic style that is extremely versatile. The key to remember is material. Usually I think of denim or leather for going out which is why I chose these two looks for the transitions. I am blessed with a business casual dress code that enables me to look professional while still maintain my style, hence the kimono. It covers the shoulders while still showing off the classic LBD. With a simple necklace and shoes it is perfect for a day on the job. Switch to the nightlife: I love my denim vest and have paired it with my LBD numerous times. I chose a statement necklace and heels to give a little pop of color and shine to a classic girl's night out ensemble.

Nude Flats



Necklace: Charmin Charlie. Top: ASOS.
Skirt: ASOS. Shoes: Target.

Necklace: Charmin Charlie. Top: BP.
Pants: Gap. Shoes: Target.

Nude flats are another easy transition item. Start the day with a simple, button up top and slacks. A statement necklace is a fun way to add a little personal sparkle to often drab work attire. Switch to your sassy side when the clock strikes 10 with a crop and bandage skirt. Be fierce with a statement necklace but keep it safe and comfy with your trusty pair of flats!



CLOSET MUST HAVE'S FOR 20-SOMETHINGS

College, and in general your 20's, are a time for discovering your beliefs, creating a name for yourself and looking at a closet similar to your mother's in her 20's. I've run into this phenomenon so many times. The clothes I pick up after shopping and show to my mother usually get the response "I used to have something like that!" It's interesting to understand the trends that have come and gone. My style has been compared to that of Stevie Nicks' once or twice and it is evident some of the pieces of the 70's have made a comeback.

From this idea, I've compiled a list of timeless must-haves for every girl in their 20's. Most dawned the closet of a young Bev Hight and have since found their way into mine! Check out some item's from my closet and where to find them!

Chinese Laundry Nude Heels, $70 ASOS.com

All Nude Everything
Nude flats and heels are my favorite foot wear, believe it or not I have narrowed down my favorites from my collection. Dress up a pair of heels with a white dress or earthy, low key feel. The perfect pair of nude flats can be paired with casual jeans for lunch with the girls. Find these Chinese laundry heels along with other styles and flats on ASOS.com!




Kate Spade Gayla Sunglass, Nordstrom

Versatile Sunnies
Ah, my Kate Spade sunnies. My favorite accessory of all time: sunglasses. The key is to find the perfect pair for versatility, which is why I splurged a bit on these over the summer. Fun colored and patterned frames make a statement and are a blast to wear in the summer, however save that cash and treat yourself to some peepers for all outfits, year round.




Mila Box Pleat Skater Skirt, $26 BooHoo.com

Skater Skirts

No matter the body type, skater skirts are flattering on every shape and size. As my go to for a casually comfortable ensemble, skater skirts come in all patterns and material to complete the perfect sunny day or date night outfit. This particular one I purchased for a business causal event. My favorite skirt, as mentioned in Surfin' Style, dawns a daisy print and 100% for a breezy, comfortable look.

Mink Pink Excessive Leggings, $43 Amazon.com

Patterned/ Colored Pants

Yes. Yes. Yes. I love a quality and stylish pair of colored pants. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Check out these Mink Pink leggings: my new obsession. Both a conversation starter and an outlet for comfort and style on a night out! The key: basics. Pair with a black sweater or a cute pair of basic boots or flats to add a little pop of color to the often drab winter style. Find these leggings on ASOS or Amazon!

Michael Kors Fulton Crossbody in Brown, Nordstrom

Versatile Crossbody

Much like the sunnies, I have a strong belief a go-to bag is a must. My favorite styles is the crossbody. I have a habit of collecting things and with an oversized purse, that thing would be filled up within 2 days of purchase. Crossbodies are the perfect size for holding everything one needs, low maintenance carrying and able to go from night to day without the annoying transition of purses. My favorite Michael Kors crossbody is with me wherever I go as the perfect little bag. It is perfect for every outfit and ensemble and travels with me from work, to class, to dinner with all my necessities.

KIMONO

Tribal Print Contrast Kimono, $25, Newlook.com

All hail the greatest thing the fashion gods have given us: the kimono. No wonder I channel Stevie Nicks. Embrace your inner gypsy with the accessory for all seasons. Some of my favorite ensembles of both fall and summer dawn a patterned kimono to dress up basic wear. Don't consider it festival wear but rather a way to bring the low key, easy going feel of the fields to you. Kimonos look perfect pair with basic shorts and tanks as a statement piece. In the winter, pair it with a black or simply pattern maxi dress or skirt for a warm, layered look. Look on multiple ways to wear it on my Saturday blog!

Glamorous Side Split Maxi, $40 ASOS.com

Maxi Skirt

My go-to for any casual night out is a maxi skirt. This Glamorous brand maxi, featured in my previous post, is the perfect stand out skirt for any date night or GNO. Wear it to a concert for a low maintenance, but cute way to stand out but be ready for the crowd. My favorite compliment to the skirt is a cute crop or tank that lets the skirt speak for itself. Refer to another closet necessity, the kimono, to create the perfect boho look for chicness! Check out this maxi and ASOS!

Premier Design Jewelry, Premierdesign.com

Trusty Statement Necklace

I am extremely selective on the jewelry I wear and own. I've never been a huge fan of earrings and bracelets however necklaces never fail to complete a look. The most important necklace is one perfect for nearly every outfit. My choice of shade is silver. I love this piece from Premiere jewelry to top off any look I feel needs a little something-something! 




Send me photos of how you dress my picks up or your favorite style pieces to aashleyhightt@yahoo.com and you could be in my next blog! Check out my favorite versatile pieces on Saturday!



SURFIN' STYLE

Okay, so maybe I don't surf but I know a thing or two about casual, comfy style catered to the warm beaches of Hawaii. Destination: Maui. I piled my suitcase with my favorite floral and breezy pieces including ASOS, Free People and staples from Urban Outfitters. Together, I collected images of my favorite outfits from the trip. Consider is an ode to summer style during the cold winter months and a diary of my favorite sites during my trip. I would like to make an important and necessary note regarding my awkwardness in front to the camera: this is why I try my darndest to stay behind the lens.


Day One: I love kimonos; love them so much I own eight. This particular black and Aztec dawning statement piece comes from a little boutique in my college town, Lawrence. It was perfect as a swim cover-up or a formal dinner ready accessory for the little black dress. It is paired with a daisy embossed bandeau from Urban Outfitters as well as BDG high-waisted shorts.

The statement above the rest: The floppy hat. I adore this item I picked up at the Kansas City Farmer's Market 2 years ago. It may be a bit oversized for the pools of the suburbs in the KC metro but in Hawaii it was the perfect beach and leisure hat to tie an outfit together. I consider this a necessity for any beach trip may it be spring break, biking in California or a sun day in the Carolina's.





Day Two: Hyundai's Tournament of Champions
I strayed a bit from the usual attire while attending my first PGA tournament. It is no secret I love golf and I was so excited to watch Adam Scott play in person and follow KU alumni, Gary Woodland. My outfit of the day included H&M patterned shorts accompanied with an ASOS V-neck crop with accompanying ASOS bandeau. My sandals were Sam Edelman  and matched my go-to and trusty Michael Kors satchel.

Necessity: Bandeaus are a necessity when living in the sunshine... and tank tops. Bra straps easily ruin an outfit but bandeaus are easy cute ways reduce straps and increase comfort in.

 Day Three: A Night Out with the Family
This special trip was on account of my parents celebrating 25 years of marriage together. With that, we celebrated on a warm and windy evening at Fleetwood's on Front. Outfit was completely ASOS: a bright floral maxi that followed me from the beach to the bar as well as a breezy tank. The two flowy pieces created a carefree but careful look perfect for a dinner overlooking the Pacific. Hidden are my favorite Sam Edelman wedges in brown. These were so comfy for those tricky stairs and a sunset walk in Lahaina.

The necklace: Premiere Designs is an independent jewelry company with bright, diverse and elegant designs. My favorite purchase is my silver, antiqued floral necklace. Look for a close up in my next blog!

 Day Four: Beach Day
 My beach attire hails from the ever- trusty ASOS. I strayed from the norm and dawned a bit of a vintage inspired look with a high-waisted and cinched bottom with a electric blue and broach-encrusted top. I opted for a high waist cut for comfort. As a hippy woman with an athletic build, I simply felt more comfortable in a bit more coverage than the average bikini. No matter what, comfort and confidence is the best attire!






Day Five: Brunch
Hawaii brought cool, breezy mornings. Perfect for a cute brunch while overlooking the ocean with a class of fresh squeezed juice. My go-to Urban Outfitters crop was perfect to soak in some sun. My favorite gladiators come from a vintage boutique in the heart of Lawrence.

The skater skirt: My favorite look of the moment is the skater skirt. With a beautiful and simple cut, it is perfect for high and low waisted style while having the ability to be dressed up, or down. My favorite of mine is seen here! An ASOS classic collect with daisies and one of my favorite items in my closet. ASOS has a brilliant selection of colors, designs and cuts to find the perfect skater skirt!


Day Six: Jet Setting
The last day of sweet sunshine before returning to the bitter winters of Kansas called for one last crop top. This is the black daisy crop from Urban Outfitters, yes I loved the design and cut that much I bought it in both colors. My favorite item from my suitcase was this ASOS triple maxi in my school's colors. I treated myself to a little Coach satchel, seen here, which will be featured on my next blog!

I enjoyed a nice vacay away from the "polar vortex" of the Midwest. It was a great time with my family as well as a much needed celebration of my parents' 25 years together. Questions on the outfits or think I missed a piece? Comment below!