the daily dani: Blogger Feature: Kristina of Kristina J.

I'm so excited to feature Kristina, from Kristina J. on The Daily Dani today! I've been a long-time fan of her style and designs, and I'm so happy to be sharing her sweet style with you all!

3 words to describe your personal style?

Feminine, Classy, Unexpected

What would you consider the 5 essential items to a fashionable wardrobe?
A black dress, A print sheath dress, Skin-toned wedges, White button-up shirt, Pencil skirt

What is your most meaningful item of jewelry?

My watch, because it's functional... but I do try to pick pretty ones.

You are definitely a perfect model of modest fashion in the blogosphere. How do you maintain your modesty while still appearing fashionable?

First, thanks for the compliment. I dream of actually being fashionable while standing on a platform of modesty. I never put fashion ahead of modesty. For me, the priority is modesty first, so I when I'm shopping and see something I like I always ask myself, "Is this even modest?" If so, then I'm trying to decide if it's cool, if I like it, and if it can fill a space in my wardrobe. I'm always looking for clothing options that are current while being relevant to my age and life style. It's definitely not easy. My goal is never to look sexy or provocative, but stylishly feminine. There are certain styles I won't wear, but outside of those, I feel there are all kinds of creative options from which to choose. It just takes a little more effort and thought.

I'm such a big fan of your designs - whether you're anthropologizing or creating your own originals! Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

That's an easy one! I generally aim to design dresses I'd like to wear that are just impossible to find at my price point! I'm always looking for inspiration. It might come from the color combination of a room out of a home decorator's magazine or an interesting landscape. Inspiration is all over the place, and since I'm seriously scatter-brained, I keep a notebook with me all the time to jot the ideas when they come 'cuz I'd never remember them otherwise. As I get closer to the possibility of opening an online boutique, I've started asking myself what other women want to wear and what they're looking for in a fabulous dress. The thought that women might want to wear something I've designed is always inspirational!

That's right, you guys! Kristina designed ALL of these dresses, and more!

As a mom, how do you find a balance between fashion/appropriateness/comfort?I'm the stay-at-home mommy to three exceptionally active children. Playing with them is my life right now and wearing clothes that I feel comfortable in while still looking like I deliberately got dressed is a major priority. I dress up everyday...not necessarily pumps and silk, but I definitely make an effort every morning. I think looking sharp and cohesive makes me a better mom... a better person. I feel confident that my children can be proud of me and that, in turn, makes me feel proud of myself.

My most cringe worthy fashion moment:

There are honestly so many I can't even pick one. I try new things, and many times they back-fire on me. I've gone a whole day thinking I look great, then look at the daily pictures and realize I didn't look fabulous at all. HA. I always learn a lot from those outfits, though. Outfit failure has a way of refining my perspective on how I'm presenting myself. I went through a major authentic vintage phase that was pretty scary.

I feel most myself when I’m wearing:

A shirt-dress, belt and wedges. It's my go-to outfit. I love a great dress, 'cuz it just takes all the effort out of getting ready. And with being responsible for my children's clothes every morning as well, I really like the ease of a fabulous shirt-dress.