solemates...chicago

clutch mag recently launched a stylistic section, and was lucky enough to be highlighted. yay solemates!
thanks teneille ;)

TRENDSETTER: Autumn
Who is Autumn?
The Howard University graduate with a whole lot of style and SOLE! The 25 year old “professional multi-tasker” has managed to master it all. She’s been a Fashion Buyer and Wholesaler, a Blogger, and a successful business owner.

Autumn on Autumn…
I’m 25, married and I own Solemates…Chicago with my husband Brian. I am a low maintenance girl, with a little style, that doesn’t look to deep into things. I’ve been involved in the fashion industry for about 10 years, and that combined with building great relationships has gotten me where I am today. I guess a marketing degree from Howard University didn’t hurt either.

Autumn on growing up in style…
I have to say that my parents are pretty stylish folks, so I know that they have had a little influence on my fashion sense. At the age of 6, I kept a change of shoes in my school locker! Other than that the men and women of 50’s and 60’s have had the most influence on my style. Thank God for Technicolor films. From Auntie Mame to Pillow Talk, I love the style and essence captured in the films- so classic, tailored and colorful! I am a thrift shopper, I like to mix classic with funky. So give me that high-waisted pencil skirt and blouse, with some big earrings and banging shoes - and I’m good money!

Autumn’s advice on trendsetting…
I am not a trendy person at all, so I like to consider my style as timeless. If I am wearing it today- I should be able to wear it five years from now. So my advice is to be classic in your approach to fashion, so in 5 years you don’t have to look back at those pics saying what the heck was I thinking!

Autumn’s hits and misses…
At the end of the day- it’s all about how you accessorize a certain item and if its appropriate for your body type- that makes it a hit or miss.

But here’s my list…
Hits: tailored white blouses, skinny pants, and doctors bags,

Misses: lame leggings and embellished denim

Autumn looking ahead…
Hmmm, honestly, I can see myself keeping along the same lines. In 15 years I will still throw on a t shirt and some sneakers or a bad dress and some cute flats or heels. I’m such a stickler for comfort, so as long as that’s maintained, im good! We’ll call it sexy and sensible. [LOL]