Personal Style Blogs
Come with me as we explore the creative heart of Chicagoland. Get a glimpse into the homes and personal styles of the city’s trendsetters, and see Chicago’s fashion scene through my eyes. I’ll share fun, behind-the-scenes insights from the people who make it all happen.
Britt Bush- Lakeview, Chicago
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Britt Bush- Lakeview, Chicago *
Britt finds deep inspiration in the 70s, especially Stevie Nicks, who showed her how to balance femininity with mystery and edge. Stevie taught her to embrace duality in fashion, combining softness with strength.
With a background in architectural design, Britt appreciates clean lines with a touch of softness. Her love for mid-century modern style aligns with her preference for tight silhouettes that highlight her curves.
The piece that means most to Britt in her home is her cherry-oak dining room table, which she found on Facebook Marketplace. Having moved frequently, she always wondered if she could create a welcoming space. Now, her dining table is the heart of her hosting, bringing friends together for game nights and dinner parties. She’s a firm believer in buying second-hand to add unique, personal touches to her space.
When it comes to outfits, Britt starts with one piece, often inspired by the music she’s listening to that day. Whether channeling her rocker side or embracing a softer, more feminine vibe, she builds her look around that initial choice.
Her advice for finding personal style? “Find something that makes you feel as sexy as three glasses of wine.”
Alex Carillo- Pilsen, Chicago
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Alex Carillo- Pilsen, Chicago *
Alex’s sources of inspiration have evolved over the years, from the vibrant 1960s to the nostalgic aesthetics of the early 2000s, which now influence her apartment’s design. She strives to create a space that evokes the warmth and ambiance of her childhood home, with her mother serving as a constant source of inspiration. Her mother’s love for thrifting and finding sentimental, one-of-a-kind pieces has greatly shaped Alex’s own approach to fashion and interior design.
Alex values individuality, often drawing inspiration from her mother and friends, incorporating their personal styles into her own. She believes each room should harmonize while maintaining its unique vibe. In her bedroom, she favors simplicity and cleanliness to calm her active mind, creating a tranquil space.
Inspired by Sofia Richie’s timeless ability to mix bold prints and colors, Alex incorporates similar elements into her wardrobe. She carefully curates her home and fashion to reflect her personality, ensuring each space and outfit feels cohesive yet distinct.
A self-proclaimed lover of chairs and vibrant colors, Alex’s outfit choices begin with thoughtful questions about how she wants to be perceived, how she feels, and what emotions she wants to evoke. Comfort is key for her, recalling a time she was the girl in an ultra-mini skirt on the CTA.
One of her favorite fashion pieces comes with a special memory: a pink wool tank with mermaid sequins she found while solo traveling to St. Louis. Vintage shopping holds a sentimental charm for Alex, as each piece carries its own story or memory.
Samantha Georgson- Logan Square, Chicago
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Samantha Georgson- Logan Square, Chicago *
Sam’s greystone apartment is one of her first spaces that truly feels like home. She’s embraced blending old and new, often sourcing second hand pieces, and adding her eclectic style to complement the apartment’s original features. One standout piece is a bookshelf-desk combo her dad crafted, filled with meaningful items like books that she and her partner, James, cherish.
Sam’s fashion is similarly inspired by layers and structure, often drawing from Scandinavian influencers, though her love for bold patterns sets her apart. She connects with influencers like @alyssainthecity, admiring their personal style and interior design taste. Sam believes fashion and interior design are both powerful tools for self-expression, with clothing serving as the first impression and home offering a deeper insight into who you are.
Growing up, Sam admired her mother’s cozy, gallery-like home, and she’s worked hard to recreate that warmth in her own apartment. Her space is filled with meaningful pieces, including art by her talented mom, @christineechtnerartist. Sam’s approach to hosting is all about making guests feel welcomed and creating a space that feels personal and full of heart.
When it comes to fashion, Sam’s signature style often includes a chic jumpsuit and boots, reflecting her mood and the moment. She suggests trusting your instincts when it comes to personal style: pay attention to what makes you feel confident and joyful, and let that guide your choices, whether shopping thrifts or boutiques. Sam’s advice: deep down, you already know what works for you—just listen to that inner voice.
Dante Vargas- Lakeview, Chicago
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Dante Vargas- Lakeview, Chicago *
Dante Vargas might surprise you when it comes to fashion. Despite not being particularly into shoes, he has a methodical approach to his wardrobe. He starts with a top and works his way down, embracing the millennial trend of pairing a cute top with jeans. Recently, he’s even started to pay more attention to footwear. But his fashion sense goes beyond just clothes —it extends to his home. Dante’s apartment in Chicago is a reflection of his style: cozy, nostalgic, and filled with family photos that bring back memories of his childhood visits to his grandparents. It’s kind of a space that feels like a warm embrace.
Dante’s style is also influenced by the 80s and early 2000s. he loves the bold colors and silhouettes of the 80s, particularly the emphasis on showing off the legs and experimenting with color blocking. He also channels the edgy, glitzy vibe of the early 2000s, rocking looks like oversized polos with short shorts. His fashion choices, though casual are always carefully considered.
Beyond clothing, Dante is a talented designer, especially in the art of bedazzling. He’s quickly making a name for himself with dazzling gem-encrusted creations, including mesh outfits and playful graphic tanks. His love for red, glitter, and tie-dye, and transparent materials shines through in his work, capturing his vibrant personality in every piece. One of the most intriguing questions I asked him was what clothing item he’d grab first in a fire —his answer was a cherished Marine Serre top, which shows how personal fashion can be.
Dante’s fashion and interior inspiration reflect his colorful, lively spirit, and he’s genuinely grateful for the chance to share his unique sense of style with everyone.
Sumiya Choudhry- Chinatown, Chicago
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Sumiya Choudhry- Chinatown, Chicago *
Sumiya’s personal style is a seamless blend of her love for cute, whimsical details and her deep sense of identity. Whether it’s her interior design or fashion, she enjoys infusing both with playful elements—like little kitties and quirky characters—that reflect her interests and personality. This playful spirit has been a part of her style since high school, when she creatively personalized her uniform with pins, keychains, scarves, and bows.
Her wardrobe is an extension of her passions, and she carefully selects outfits based on two guiding principles: color theory and her mood. By choosing colors that align with how she feels, Sumiya creates looks that are both expressive and harmonious. Putting outfits together is something she loves so much that she often loses track of time, but she stays organized by setting alarms to ensure she’s never late. One of her signature looks truly captures her fun and playful style, and it’s easy to see how it perfectly matches her mood.
Sumiya has always embraced trends on her own terms, even rocking bows before they became fashionable. As a Virgo, she gravitates toward neutral colors, well-tailored pieces, and a tidy wardrobe, which compliments her busy lifestyle and multiple hobbies. Her approach to fashion is all about balance—being open to change while staying true to what resonates with her personal style.
Her bedroom reflects this sense of style as well, with a cozy, luxurious vibe that’s both functional and beautiful. One standout item is a bedside lamp she brought back from a trip to her hometown in Pakistan. Inspired by the craftsmanship and culture she experienced during her visit, the lamp connects her to her heritage and family. It’s one of many meaningful, carefully curated items that make her space uniquely hers.
Sumiya’s advice for those seeking to discover their personal style? Start with the basics—focus on understanding your silhouette and build a solid foundation before experimenting with accessories, colors, and textures. She encourages taking risks and enjoying the process of self-expression. It’s clear that Sumiya has truly found her own voice in fashion and design, effortlessly blending personal expression with timeless elegance.
Kyle Grover- Lakeview, Chicago
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Kyle Grover- Lakeview, Chicago *
Kyle is someone who excels at creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere, both in his home and in how he presents himself to the world. Inspired by the people he surrounds himself with, Kyle adapts his wardrobe to suit different occasions, whether he’s tending to plants, socializing with friends, or baking in the kitchen. His relationships hold deep meaning, and this is reflected in his space—such as the handmade piece from his dear friend Megan, which serves as a reminder of the love and connections in his life.
Kyle has reached a point of self-discovery, finding comfort and joy in both his home and his personal style. This transformation includes blending interior design with fashion choices and even coordinating outfits wit his cat, Ahsoka. His current apartment represents a milestone, a place where Kyle has infused intentionality into every detail, and it makes a time when he has truly begun to solidify his identity.
One of Kyle’s favorite spaces is the kitchen, where he finds solace and connects with his late grandfather’s legacy. His grandpa, a former chef, passed down his culinary skills, and Kyle now honors that heritage by baking, a passion he rediscovered after his grandpa’s death. Baking, like his personal style, has become a way for Kyle to express his creativity and keep meaningful traditions alive.
A key lesson Kyle shares is the importance of not feeling pressured to fit into a mold when discovering your personal style. He encourages embracing experimentation and finding what truly resonates with you, a piece of advice he’s lived by as he curates his space and wardrobe. Exploring Kyle’s world has been a true delight, and its clear that both his home and his fashion are deeply intertwined with love and lessons of those around him.
Jack Flora- Bridgeport, Chicago
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Jack Flora- Bridgeport, Chicago *
Jack Flora’s apartment is a true reflection of their creative spirit, where every piece tells a story. One of the standout features is a custom bar Jack designed during a college course, blending cylindrical shapes and height to create a striking yet classic piece. This masterpiece, adorned with items like a mystic 8-ball and a shelf that reads “decidedly so,” is the focal point of the space, showcasing Jack’s unique aesthetic and thoughtful curation.
Jack’s style is a blend of classic elegance and eclectic flair, mirrored both in their interior design and fashion. Their love for button-up shirts and suspenders parallels their approach to home decor, fusing timeless elements with unexpected twists. One of Jack’s most treasured creations is a hand-painted jumpsuit, meticulously crafted with rings and metal accents along the legs, showcasing their attention to detail. This piece, which holds significant personal meaning, has become a staple in their wardrobe. As jack grows more comfortable with their masculine side, they embrace both he/they pronouns, adding further depth to the jumpsuits’s significance.
A chess enthusiast, Jack’s light-up chessboard also holds a place of pride in their home, providing yet another example of their love for combining function and art. Choosing between the chess set and the bar was no easy task for Jack, but each piece in their home holds a unique narrative. Whether it’s thrifted find, a handmade creation, or a cherished family heirloom, Jack’s space is rich with history and personal meaning.
It’s clear that Jack’s home is more than just a living space— it’s a gallery of their life, talent, and personality. I’m grateful to Jack for inviting me into their world and letting me share a glimpse of their beautifully curated space with all of you.
Cortlyn Kelly- West Town, Chicago
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Cortlyn Kelly- West Town, Chicago *
Cortlyn’s fashion and interior style are deeply influenced by a mix of her friends and her love for movies, particularly vintage films. Her friends’ unique, coordinated outfits always complement each other in a special way, and Cortlyn draws inspiration from these dynamic connections. Vintage movies, with their distinct fashion, also play a significant role in shaping her look, adding a nostalgic touch to her modern style.
Her outfits reflect both her Cancer sun sign and Leo rising. The cozy, grounding nature of her clothes—often in warm, earthy tones—speaks to her Cancer energy, creating a sense of comfort and home. Meanwhile, her bold, vibrant outfits and hair showcases the fiery, confident side of her Leo rising.
When it comes to outfit planning, Cortlyn values versatility and comfort, especially as she often transitions from day to night. She always starts with one standout piece—like a favorite pair of shoes—and builds the rest of the look around it, never skipping on a good pair of comfy socks. Whether it’s pairing funky shoes with fleece sweatpants or adding a pop of color, Cortlyn’s style is both practical and expressive.
Cortlyn’s apartment is just as cozy as her fashion. She’s all about creating a welcoming, comfortable space where people feel at home. From the moment you step inside, she’ll offer you a cup of tea and invite you to relax on her inviting couch. The eclectic decor— featuring thrifted items, cherished family pieces, and creations from her talented friends—adds personality and warmth to her home.
At the heart of Cortlyn’s style, both in fashion and in interior design, is a commitment to comfort and authenticity.
Grace Hersey- West Town, Chicago
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Grace Hersey- West Town, Chicago *
Grace has a true passion for hosting, especially dinner parties, where she brings together friends from all areas of her life. For her, these gatherings are more than just social events—they’re opportunities to create connections and share unique experiences. This love for people and connection also influences her fashion. She draws inspiration from meeting new people and observing how they express their individuality, especially those who embrace their authentic selves.
Her fashion style embodies the "less is more" mantra, favoring simple yet elegant pieces, like her understated gold jewelry. This approach mirrors her hosting style—effortless sophistication that invites others to relax and enjoy. Hosting is truly her calling, and her personal style reflects that same charm.
Grace’s home style follows the same philosophy. She can turn bold pieces, like her striking couch, into serene and effortless statements. The nostalgic, playful elements of her space, influenced by childhood memories of toys like Polly Pockets and dolls, make her home feel both timeless and unique. Grace embraces her inner child, often incorporating playful elements into her wardrobe and home decor, creating a space that feels authentic and personal.
When it comes to dressing, Grace’s decisions start with one key piece, often her shoes. She’ll ask herself whether to wear cowboy boots or choose something else, balancing comfort, mood, and her plans for the day. Whether dressing up or keeping it casual, Grace’s outfit choices reflect her dynamic personality and thoughtful approach.
Grace’s advice for finding personal style? It’s not about having a fixed look. Style is constantly evolving, influenced by new experiences, hobbies, and interests. While trends can be fun, Grace encourages focusing on what feels timeless and true to yourself, allowing your style to grow with you.
Annie Novak- Ravenswood, Chicago
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Annie Novak- Ravenswood, Chicago *
Annie’s style is all about the little details that reflect her unique personality, whether in her home or her wardrobe. In her space, she surrounds herself with quirky items that each tell a story, from charming wall sconces to pieces on her gallery wall. Her fashion follows the same principle, with thoughtful accessories like jewelry, socks, and her signature bolo tie adding subtle flair to her outfits.
Her aesthetic blends Victorian elegance with 1970s charm, especially in her kitchen, which features bold colors and natural materials, and a standout 1970s-inspired chair in the breakfast nook. Annie’s home is cozy and inviting, creating warm, family-like atmosphere. Whether she’s hosting a dinner party or a movie night, she ensures everyone feels comfortable and well-fed in a thoughtfully curated space.
Comfort is key in her wardrobe too. Annie starts with one piece that makes her feel at ease and builds the look from there, always adding thoughtful details. Her advice for discovering your personal style? Experiment and play with your clothes and accessories—through trial and error, you’ll find fresh ways to express yourself.
Annie is also the ultimate host, bringing people together through memorable events in her beautifully designed space. Her style, both in fashion and hosting, is all about creating meaningful connections and enjoying the little moments.
Andrew Davalos- West Town, Chicago
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Andrew Davalos- West Town, Chicago *
Andrew’s interior style is a captivating blend of 1920s art deco with elements from the turn of the century and the Victorian eras. He finds a unique charm in merging these distinct time periods, creating an almost alternate universe-like ambiance. It’s as though you step into a world where complementary designs from different decades seamlessly coexist, leaving you with the feeling of being transported to the past. The atmosphere is one of mystery, where the exact era remains unclear, yet you can’t help but feel deeply rooted in history.
A key part of the sentimental allure of Andrew’s space is his collection of personal items. He takes great pride in preserving pieces from his childhood, as well as heirlooms passed down through his family. Walking into Andrew’s home is like stepping into a time capsule, each item telling a special story that he eagerly shares with visitors. This personal touch not only fills the space with warmth and nostalgia, but it also offers a deeper glimpse into who Andrew is and what truly matters to him.
Andrew is a true multi-talented individual, excelling not only in fashion and interior design but also in art. The photo behind him reveals that he is the mastermind behind every piece in his home, including the two drawings in the foreground. He skillfully weaves his neoclassical style into his artwork, showcasing his artistic versatility and eye for detail.
Exploring Andrew’s unique style—both in his living space and wardrobe—was a truly delightful experience. The creativity that flows throughout his home is awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse into the mind of an individual who is deeply connected to the past while shaping an artful, multifaceted present.
Lilly Hanson- Lakeview, Chicago
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Lilly Hanson- Lakeview, Chicago *
Lilly’s approach to fashion is all about confidence and creativity. When she finds a statement piece she loves, like a red sweater, she’s eager to wear it right away. She keeps track of her outfits in the Notes app and has an impressive knack for organizing her wardrobe, which is color-coded for easy access. Lilly’s home is filled with sentimental items, from childhood treasures to heirlooms, make her space a reflection of her memories and style.
Known for her bold fashion choices, Lilly channels a Carrie Bradshaw vibe with her Ganni boots and petticoat, always feeling confident because of her supportive, creative friends. She believes that fashion is about wearing what makes you feel good—people are often inspired by your boldness, not critical of it. Lilly’s home decor journey began with hunting for unique pieces, especially on Facebook Marketplace, where she found treasures like her pink Christmas tree and vintage pasta print.
Lilly loves hosting and has carefully curated a cozy, welcoming space, highlighted by her dining table and unique finds. At work, she embraces bold outfits, like suits, even in a creative field that doesn’t require business attire.
Her advice for discovering personal style? Experiment with outfits, pay attention to how they make you feel, and remember that fashion supposed to be fun. Everyone has their own style, and it’s about finding what feels authentic to you.
Devonte Chism- Lakeview, Chicago
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Devonte Chism- Lakeview, Chicago *
Devonte’s style philosophy can be summed up in three words: “This is me.” It reflects his ability to adapt his wardrobe to his mood or the vibe of the day. Some days, he embraces streetwear with baggy pants and Nike Dunks, relishing the creative freedom to mix and match. Other days, he opts for a more polished look, choosing a blazer or tailored shirt for a professional aesthetic.
Confidence lies at the heart of Devonte’s style. He believes the key to making any outfit stand out is wearing it with confidence. A standout piece in his collection is a shirt designed by a close friend, perfectly embodying his effortless cool.
Always evolving, Devonte draws inspiration from powerful women like Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion, whose stylists blend sharp tailoring with bold streetwear. He frequently uses Google Reverse Search to find similar pieces or ideas, not just for fashion but also for curating his living space.
Speaking of space, Devonte strives to create an environment that promotes peace and mental well-being. By using green tones for vitality and balance, and neutral-colored chairs to tie everything together, he fosters a safe, welcoming atmosphere for anyone who enters.
When preparing for an event, Devonte’s first question is always, “What’s the vibe tonight?” He then considers the neighborhood and tailors his outfit accordingly. Like a “Clueless” clothing generator in his head, Devonte effortlessly mixes and matches pieces, refining his looks until he finds the perfect ensemble.
His advice for finding personal style? Don’t worry about others’ opinions. If you love what you’re wearing, own it. His mantra is simple: “This is me.”