Fashion Profile: Samantha Chao

Q: How would you describe your style?

Right now I’m in more of a sophisticated phase. Before I used to dress really Boho, but now I’m dressing cleaner. I like mixing patterns and crisp lines. I just like looking smooth and put together. I also like to mix a lot of different styles.

Q: Where does your fashion inspiration come from?

A lot of it comes from the Free People magazine, actually. I love the way that they style clothes. I have a binder up in my room where I’ve ripped out pages from the Free People magazine when I’ve thought they put things together in a particularly interesting way.

Q: Who are your favorite designers?

I like Michael Kors and Stella McCartney. I also LOVE Jeffrey Campbell shoes, and this brand called Wilfred. They have a really feminine and almost avant-garde look and use amazing materials.

Q: What are some of your favorite places to shop?

Aritzia, Free People, Madewell, Urban Outfitters. I also do the ‘Crew sometimes.

Q: What were some of your summer staples?

High-waisted shorts. I have this pair of Kenny Guadalajara booty shorts that have a Mexican blanket stripe to them, which I love. I also love rompers, which I wear all year round. I’m wearing one right now! I also wore a lot of graphic tanks and tees. I loved mixing graphics with a silky or flowy top.

Q: What are you wearing right now?

Right now I’m wearing a floral romper with an open back from Urban Outfitters, a lace bralette from Talula and a silk color-block button down from T. Babaton. My shoes are tapestry loafers by Zalo’s and I’m wearing various jewelry that I’ve found in random shops. I love weaponry jewelry. Right now I’m wearing a ring that’s either a comb or brass knuckles.