Blogger Feature: Melissa of States of Alteration

I've decided to start featuring some of my friends in the blogosphere here on The Daily Dani! First up? My real-life bestie and fellow blogger - Melissa of States of Alteration!

{Tank: Poof, Bandeau: b. Swim, Shorts: 7 for all mankind, Boots: Steve Madden, Necklace: DIY Melissa Carpenter}

3 words to describe your personal style?
Classic. Edgy. Recycled. I live off of basics that I like to mix with fun vintage finds, DIY pieces and rock-inspired accessories.


Who are your celebrity style icons?
Alexa Chung, Erin Wasson, Audrina Patridge

What is your favorite item in your closet?
My Phillip Lim twisted hem mini. I wear this guy when I'm feeling flirty; the cinched waist is perfect for my curvy silhouette, and the double-wrap belt adds some hardware to this otherwise feminine skirt.

{Tank: Forever21, Skirt and Belt: Phillip Lim, Tribal Bangle: Gifted, Wedges: Guess}

What would you consider the 5 essential items to a fashionable wardrobe?
1. Denim- Even the most stylish women need a casual option and a great fitting jean is worth hundreds of outfits. 
2. Button Up- I don't care if people call it boring, I can rock the s*** out of this basic. Dress it up, dress it down, wear it tied, wear it open, get it in white, black, chambray or all of the above. You need one, period.
3. Trendy heel- Pretty self explanatory. Elevate your style, literally.
4. Tunic- I wear my clothes in every which way possible, and a sheer tunic can be taken far past the beach. Summer chic will never goes out of style. If its sheer, add a slip underneath, what a lovely dress you have now. Wear it over shorts and jeans and get your boho on. Mine have even seen Vegas nightlife.
5. Novelty Jacket- Any patterned, color pop, textured or unique jacket piece to top off your look. This one should really show your personality and realistically, that you can make anything look good. If you're into subtle, try swapping out the buttons on a great fitted blazer for some funkier hardware.

{Vest: Thrifted, Bandeau: TJMaxx, Skirt: Vintage, Sandals: Gap, Sunnies: Marc by Marc Jacobs}

What is your most meaningful item of jewelry?
 I don't wear a lot of jewelry pieces, but I do have an antique marcasite and silver ring that I wear pretty regularly. It's dainty and simple so it goes with everything, and it belonged to my grandmother, so its like wearing a little piece of history.
How would you style the classic LBD to reflect your personal style?
Let me start off by saying I have about six or so LBDs and since I'm not attending many formal affairs these days, I dress them ALL down. I have an obsession with stalkings so they've been my go-to accessory for making a cocktail dress more casual. Stone jewelry gives an earthy vibe so if I'm dressing down, I use it to balance out the sophisticated feel. I like a trendy shoe, so right now a chunky heel with some stud details is right up my alley. I'm also a hat girl, so I top off many an outfit and channel my inner Madeline with a straw bowler.

{Dress: Old Navy, Socks: Nordstrom, Heels: Forever21, Cuff: Gifted, Necklace: DIY Melissa Carpenter, Bowler: Nordstrom}

 
 
Thanks, Meliss!
 
Make sure you check out States of Alteration for Melissa's favorite fashion pieces, music reviews, DIY projects, and more! Stay tuned for upcoming collaborations between the two of us!
 
Keep checking in for more weekly blogger features here on The Daily Dani!