Up Close and Personal Style: Pilar Hughes
Pilar Hughes and I go way back. Back to 2nd grade at St. Pius X Elementary School in Norfolk, Va. In 1983 Prince and MJ were in the Billboard Top 10 and we rocked plaid uniforms and Peter Pan collars while trying really hard not to laugh during Mass. From SPS cheerleading to NCHS homecoming court (she won the crown despite my Vote Jenn Mapp buzz building campaign) to GMU Sprang Breakkk to mutual MOH duties, I've witnessed this woman's personal style evolution from the front line. Pilar has always had a definitive look but she's truly cemented her personal style in the past few years. Her drool worthy closet and the fact that her man has a stake in Jimmy Choo definitely did not impede her progress.
No poultry cutting on this island
On to the questions:
JMB: Describe your personal style
PH: East and West coast inspired, contemporary, bleeding edge of modern, form fitting, colorful and fun.
JMB: How has your style evolved from your 20s to your 30s and beyond?
PH: In my 20s it was all about cheer gear and Tysons Corner. Think: Abercrombie and Forever 21. My aesthetic was sporty and everything was a cotton, poly-blend. I’ve come a long way since then! In my 30s, as my career progressed, I learned to appreciate the value of investing in quality garments. I also dropped over 15 lbs, which obviously has played a role in my clothing choices. I've always been open to taking fashion direction from stylish friends and I often leverage the expertise of shop girls and personal stylists at the stores and boutiques that I frequent.
JMB: Do you have a signature look or piece or are you cultivating one?
PH: My signature pieces are anything Jimmy Choo (thanks to my boy)!
I think this qualifies as a signature look
JMB: Do you have a closet organizational system?
PH: Of course! Anyone who knows me knows I am a neat freak. Each section is pretty clear: Everyday dresses, crop tops, skirts, active wear, jeans, jackets, cocktail edit, and shoes/bags.
The crop top edit
JMB: What are you wearing when you feel most like you?
PH: Work: Susan Monaco or Karen Millen dress with nude Choos. Work Out: Lululemon hot pants with Jamaica souvenir tank and Nike Free 5.0 running shoes. Lounge: Target Mossimo maxi dress or Bahamas souvenir sweatpants with any comfy top and Springer Spaniel or UVA novelty socks.
yes! Those orange and coral bally heels feel a lot like me
JMB: If you had to give away all of your wardrobe except for 5 items what would they be and why?
PH: Things I just love (hope accessories count): 1. White short Abercrombie shorts with jeweled detail (wear them all the time in the summer and on vacation - had these shorts for years and they still look fresh). 2. An Indian vibe dress my boy just got me in Vegas. It has this perfect bow and the most beautiful colors. We bought it on one of the best days I’ve ever had in Vegas, so aside from being lovely, it reminds me of an awesome experience. 3. Nude Anouk Jimmy Choo pumps. I wear these shoes with literally everything except active wear. 4. Diamond Hearts on Fire pendant necklace, a gift from my ex (classic and goes with everything). 5.That freaking Target Mossimo maxi! I swear that thing I can from the airport to errands to dinner to PJs. It is super comfy and looks sharp even though its so soft.
flavors of india via las vegas blvd
JMB: Any packing tips?
Packing right was a big learning for me because when you check bags it tacks on more time to the travel plans and the obvious reason- bag can get lost getting to final destination. Only pack travel on size items for beauty products Sephora has an amazing variety of most everything you need and shoes you only really need 2-3 pairs (heels, flats or Nikes (depending on your activity). Those are the two things that take up the most room in luggage: Beauty products and shoes.
think long and hard about which pair to pack
Many thanks to P for being my first Up, Close and Personal Style muse!
xoxo Jenn
For all the ladies in the place with style and grace.... I want to meet you! Up Close & Personal Style is about real women on their personal style journey or those who are blazing style trails for the rest of us. All closet sizes welcome!
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