Polished to Princess to Punk: An Atlanta Fashion Frenzy

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It began as an Atlanta work trip and ended a girl’s trip filled with exploration of “the dirty south” in versatile fashion. Eager to break the boundaries of my apartment for a new ambience, I anticipated my Atlanta work trip for months, plotting on making the most of this opportunity to break my Covid era confines. My firm’s Atlanta branch boasted all that I thought a beacon of high finance in the deep South should appear, brimming with classic American and British watercolors, oversized cerulean blue and ivory China vases, and looming gold framed mirrors at the end of every corner.

Serving undeniable Fashionista in Finance energy, I brought the heat to Atlanta both in the boardroom and the wardrobe department. Versatility is essential in curating the right work trip ensemble, with the right looks enabling you to fare unpredictable variables like weather, venue, and occasion. A brown leather Express snakeskin pencil skirt, complimented by a camel off the shoulder Nichole Lynel blazer, ASOS brown silk bodysuit, ASOS gold pumps, and nude Givenchy bag took me from the office to dinner in ease and sophistication. Combining textures like leather and silk enrich any ensemble, strengthening the eye’s visual interest. Leather pieces like the below make for an edgier alternative to a typical pencil skirt or trousers, as does adding a print like snakeskin for an added pop.

Incorporating your own style and trends into a more classic approach make for a great foundation for a look that can take you into any setting with a simple change.

My inner "Buckhead Barbie” was unleashed as I transitioned to the girl’s night out component of my time in ATL, stepping out in a radiating pink satin number, above. The Club L London mini was a hit, it’s extravagant draping bow and bright sheen stealing the limelight, prompting many a “Is it your birthday?”. Contrasted by lime strappy sandals and a blingy silver baguette, the look exuded maximal glamour to the masses. For those nights you really want to turn heads, eye-catching features like oversized bows, and contrasting bright colors, along with other factors like sheen and shine are the recipe for a jaw dropper like the below or above.

Following my night out on the town, I stepped on the Atlanta art scene, head to toe “good girl gone bad” mode in a black leather Maniere De Voire corset and matching Maniere De Voire leather cargo pants.

Details like leather straps crossing over the bust along with dangling side straps, metallic fixtures on the pants, and high sheen brought edge to the A, fusing both rock and hip -hop elements. The fusion of the two genres was not only central to my look, but something I witnessed within alternative spots like Northside Tavern in Midtown, which attracted both blues and rock and roll lovers for a diverse scene.

Adam Crawford’s Cat Eye Creative, located close by to rapper 2 Chainz’s hot spot Escobar served a dose of innovative creativity. Digital pieces illuminated the gallery, the above rose reminding me of the magically luminous rose from our beloved childhood movie Beauty and the Beast.

In blatant opposition, the message “Keep it Simple” surrounded in an explosion of color, pattern, glitter, and acrylic boldly defies its own mantra, making for a visually stimulating piece.

A cultural melting pot, Atlanta’s flair and diversity make for a rich tapestry for which to explore. Stepping out of your comfort zone, both in life and in fashion make for an enriching escapade when you exit your door and embark on your daily journeys. Challenge yourself-and your wardrobe in a new city, conquering unfamiliar scenes with confidence, curiosity, and creativity.