Jessica on Houston, American Apparel, and renovating Audrey Hepburn's style

Jessica for Tools of Attraction

Where are you from?
I was born in South Africa, but I grew up in Houston, Texas and now I live in New York.

Is there a big difference, style-wise?
People are much bolder in New York. Texas is very conservative. You know, wearing a t-shirt that shows your shoulders — in Texas — is looked at as a little scandalous. But here in New York, you can wear whatever. In Houston, you find the whole schoolboy, schoolgirl thing, American Eagle everything and lots of Abercrombie. Just a very clean-cut scene. I like it here much better. People are just more open in New York.

Are there any trends you see around that you can't stand?
Nothing that really makes me mad or anything, but I'm not too fond of leopard print. Though, I'm even growing accustomed to that.

Any thoughts on American Apparel?
[Laughs] I've never gone into those shops.

What are some trends you're really into these days?
I really like high-waisted outfits. I don't know quite how to explain it, but I really like a classic look — like a style has been brought back and renovated. As far as guys go, I like a casual look. When a guy tries too hard, it just gets odd.

What were you thinking when you got dressed this morning?
I wanted to wear something chic, but still casual. I got this necklace from my father. It's an antique compass and I just keep it on a shoelace. I got these shoes online. The skirt is from Express. The top came from Route 21 and I think this belt came from BeBe.

If you were looking for a one-night stand, what would you wear?
I don't really go out all that often, but I'd probably go for a chic, plain, classic-cut dress. I'd probably wear my hair up, maybe with a little part — nothing too drastic.

Who is your style icon?
Like I said, I really like the classic stuff: Marilyn Monroe, James Dean. I really love Audrey Hepburn. For me, her look, slightly updated, is just perfect.

Commentarium (12 Comments)

Jul 19 10 - 2:12pm
notfromaroundhere

I think Jessica has amazing, incredible style. I love the way she looks.

Jul 19 10 - 4:14pm
quohog

Dear god she is stunning and stylish and even loves Audrey Hepburn. Even better, she also hates leopard print, which is always always terrible.

Jul 20 10 - 9:51am
FriendofDorothy

Love the boots.

Jul 20 10 - 10:04am
:)

Hey, nothin' wrong with leopard print http://s1.hubimg.com/u/503964_f260.jpg

Jul 20 10 - 10:10am
lb

she is beautiful and i am in love with her outfit

Jul 20 10 - 10:10am
jmh

I would like to have Breakfast at Jessica's

Jul 20 10 - 11:37am
mr. man

super duper attractive

Jul 20 10 - 11:41am
rr

um...i dunno what she's talking about, cuz there are exposed shoulders everywhere you look in texas

Jul 20 10 - 4:36pm
HWMNBN

Texas is too hot not to have your shoulders showing. Kinda think she's dumb for saying that. I mean people dress conservative (kinda) when they are kids growing up. Obviously.

Jul 20 10 - 6:51pm
steven from houston

Hey Jessica, er i mean Boots Magoots, tear New York a new one for me, will ya? And don't let what HWMNBN said get you down, he/she is kind of a dick for letting his/her observations overshadow and ridicule your own, obviously. You comin back to Houston anytime soon or what? You're friends miss you.

Jul 20 10 - 7:28pm
Nora-O

Hey jess! I love your oufit, was that one of the new ones you had bought? You look great! I like your answers :D

Jul 21 10 - 7:13pm
Ginger

Brilliant woman! I love what she has to say. She seems very real. And HWMNBN, yes, Texas is very conservative and it isn't appropriate everywhere to show one's shoulders. Apparently you've never been outside Houston.

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