I’m exploring a new style direction right now that’s a mash-up of a bunch of different influences — it’s a dash of Desperado, a dash of French with jaunty ribbons from fashion houses worn as chokers, a dash of modern cowgirl (I’m always on the lookout for more western-inspired pointy boots and cool belts) and a dash of avant garde with streamlined, modern black clothing.

This new direction came directly from the inspiration I felt during a recent vacation in Vegas. It sprung from a combination of the hot weather, visiting Red Rock Canyon for the first time, five solid days spent dressing up with best friends and stopping into shops to pick up a few new things along the way including a big, black brimmed hat.

For me, style directions are a way to explore creativity in a new way — instead of sitting behind the computer designing, I’m encouraged to dig through my wardrobe and pull together combinations of things that I may have forgotten about and give them a new life. It’s an excuse to have an adventure with getting dressed instead of reaching for the same old uniform of a leather jacket, sneakers, skinny jeans and t-shirt.

Most directions I’m inspired by start off with one point of inspiration and evolve from there. I love looking back to see how it all comes together. Maybe it’s partially based on a particular purchase or maybe it stems from the style you spot on a musician or the colors from a piece of art.

Mine started with needing a hat to wear by the pool in the very harsh Vegas sun. Then, I grabbed a black bodysuit at Urban Outfitters when I forgot to pack enough black shirts. Then, Gala had the idea to wear the ribbons from our shopping splurges as chokers.

Here’s some inspiration for the style direction: 1. bandana, 2. belt, 3. fringe jacket, 4. girl in hat, 5. bell sleeve dress, 6. straw hat, 7. booties, 8. fringe skirt, 9. choker, 10. tassel keychain, 11. zip bodysuit and 12. Chanel ribbon.

Playing dress-up as an adult is so underrated!

P.S. The best part about the pink backdrop with roses is that it was a happy accident. My brother set it up in our dining room to shoot a country band that was touring through Portland and when they couldn’t make it at the last minute, I convinced him to leave it up!

I wore: Zara skirt (old), Forever 21 hat, Urban Outfitters bodysuit, The Horse watch and Vic Matie boots.