Haute Interview: Personal Shopper/ Fashion Stylist Kristie Jorfald Talks Trends, Best Brands, and Empowering Women!

Personal Shopper/ Fashion Stylist: Kristie Jorfald

Kristie Jorfald is a multifaceted personal shopper and fashion stylist whose work is notable across multiple media platforms. Some of Jorfald’s credits include: Assistant Wardrobe Stylist on the Style Network’s “How Do I Look?” (Season 12), Freelance Fashion Stylist for Paper Magazine and Edge Magazine, and Assistant Wardrobe Stylist on “Detention” – a Joseph Kahn film.

So, yes, it’s awesome to feature Jorfald in Good Girl Gone Shopping’s first Haute Interview of 2016! From describing her favorite personal shopping client to giving major shout-outs to designers and brands she can always count on for fabulous fashion items, Kristie Jorfald has a unique perspective on trends and style. Enjoy!

With 2016 currently in effect and fashion is providing us more and more options each season, what are some of the trends that are really catching your eye this year?

I’m so flipping excited to see metallic making its way back for fall! Bring on the fringe, 70s boho chic inspiration, pleated dresses/skirts, sequin floral prints, lightweight denim, halfmoon cross body bags, lingerie slip dresses, and blown-out plaid!

What about the fashion trends of 2015? Is there a look that you hope most women will finally let go? 

Yes! I’m so over the cut-out dresses and stacked rings. They all need to go!

You have an extensive background in personal shopping and styling, so I can imagine how many different personalities you’ve assisted. What type of client excites you the most when it comes to helping him or her find that perfect outfit?

My absolute favorite clients to work with are the women that don’t believe in shopping and don’t understand that personal style is connected to their personality. I love teaching my clients how to shop for their shape and how to build self-confidence skills through wardrobe styling. It’s an incredible feeling to see your clients come back to you after your shopping session to show you their new looks they’ve put together on their own, when they share compliments from their friends and coworkers on their new looks, or when they refer you to others. It’s really a combination of seeing their happiness and self-confidence shine in a different light. I feel so lucky to have met and worked with such incredible women!

Personal Shopper/ Fashion Stylist: Kristie Jorfald

Do you believe that there is a difference between “shopping cheap” and “shopping on a budget”…?

Yes – it’s all based on having a good eye and rich taste.

How would you describe your personal style?

Romantic, chic, and edgy. I love my super girly and flirty looks, however, you will most likely catch me wearing all black any given day…with lots of leather and lace.

What do you feel are the biggest misconceptions people have regarding the fashion industry?

I’ve heard too many people say “It’s so fabulous and easy, anyone could do it.”

What are some of the fashion designers or brands that you can always count on for fabulous pieces for your clients?

Oscar de la Renta will never let you down on the red carpet. DL1961 are the best jeans a woman can own. Everyone should have a black Theory blazer in their closet. A Burberry Kensington heritage trench coat is a must. Nicole Miller makes the perfect cocktail dress – she really understands a woman’s body shape. Stuart Weitzman makes comfortable and beautiful boots and pumps, which are also a personal favorite. More bang for your buck – Banana Republic always has some great jewelry finds, Zara for coats and shoes, Luxury Garage Sale for one-of-a-kind pieces, and Sandro and Maje for that everyday sophisticated look.

The 3 items that every women should own: 

A leather jacket, trench coat, black leather pants, patent nude pumps, black blazer – oops that’s more than 3!

To keep up with Kristie Jorfald and her fabulous fashion work, be sure to connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram!

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Kristie Jorfald 

Recreating Your Style in 2016? Let's Revisit Some of my Top Tips!

(Photo Credit: www.totalbeauty.com)

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling extra energized and motivated in the new year! Although we're only seven days into 2016, there's a magical feeling in the air. Whether walking to the corner market for fresh veggies or interviewing industry professionals, I can't help but notice that inspiration is touching all of us in a special way! 

And with great energy often comes our desire to look within and focus on creating -- or recreating -- a fresh, new style that communicates our personalities. As many of you are, I'm on a continuous path of self-discovery and on the lookout for trends that will embrace and accentuate my personal style. In 2014, I started growing dreadlocks and began making fitness a priority. In 2015, I decided to embrace cute flats more than cute heels, shopped more vintage and local boutiques, and became a proud vegan (recipes coming to the blog soon!). My goal in 2016 is to continue making conscious efforts and decisions within each of these areas, while spreading inspiration to as many people as possible.

(Photo Credit: www.stylecaster.com)

That said, I'd loooooove to learn more about you -- my lovely reader -- in regards to your goals with style! How do you determine which pieces in your wardrobe should stay or go? Does the idea of hitting the mall for brand, new fashion make you feel frustrated? Do you wish that you were a better budget-conscious shopper?

Over the years, I’ve shared several fashion and shopping tips with you. And with our magical new year in progress, now is a great time to share these with you again! Below, I've listed links to 10 of my "top tips" articles that I think you may enjoy. If a particular tip stands out to you, please feel free to leave a comment or tweet me! Let's make 2016 a fabulously stylish year, my friends! xoxo

"5 Tips: How to Prepare For Selling or Trading Your Clothes In-Store!" [September 18, 2015]

"Are You OVER Your Style? Top 3 Tips on How to Reveal the Real You!" [August 1, 2015] 

"Looking Forward to a Night Out in the City? Here are 3 Reasons to Ditch Your Heels!" [July 19, 2015]

"So You Received Great Customer Service...Now What? My 5 Tips Get You Started!" [January 27, 2015] 

"Shopping for the Right Jeans: 3 Tips to Help Save Your Sanity!" [October 28, 2014] 

"3 Shopping Don'ts That DO!" [July 29, 2014]

"My 3 SIMPLE Money-Saving Shopping Tips" [January 6, 2014] 

"Top 3 Ways to Keep Your Cool While Shopping Shoe Clearance" [July 11, 2013] 

"Top 10 Tips for Shopping 'Black Friday'" [November 22, 2012] 

"5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Colored Leather Jacket" [October 7, 2012] 

Rollable 'Flat Out of Heels' for Comfort, Convenience, and Style!

(Use my discount code to get $2 off your own pair of Flat Out of Heels!)

All women appreciate convenient fashion -- the pieces that can easily be thrown on and off. Think zip-up hoodies, slip-on boots, our boyfriends' tees (for those off days), and now...rollable ballet-style flats by Flat Out of Heels!

Flat Out of Heels, which was founded four years ago by Dawn Dickson, is a smart option for stylish chicks on the go. As stated on its website, “No matter where you are going or what you are wearing, Flat Out of Heels has a rollable flat to match every outfit, every style, every mood and every occasion.”

("...the rollable quality of the shoe is just way cool and a total space-saver!")

 Although I typically wear flip-flops (I’m such a So Cal girl!), Nike running shoes, or Camper sneakers, it’s awesome to have a delicate pair of flats to add to my collection of comfy wear. My pair of Kimberly (Pink Floral) flats have an ultra-feminine print and fit comfortably (snug elastic around the heel). Although I wouldn’t walk a crazy, long distance wearing these flats – I’m so heavy-footed that I wear shoes out quickly – I appreciate its hard, durable sole. It’s now one of my running-errands-all-day-in-LA type of shoe, which looks great with olive-colored pants (as seen in the above pic) or any style of blue jeans. In addition, the rollable quality of the shoe is just way cool and a total-space saver. Great for traveling! 

Thanks to Flat Out of Heels, you can get an exclusive $2 off your next online purchase! The original cost of its rollable ballet-style flats ranges from $19.99 to $29.99. So yes…this is an amazing deal! [Discount Code: goodgirlgoneshopping]. Visit www.flatoutofheels.com to get your shop on! xo

Connect with Flat Out of Heels on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! 

Photo Credit: My pics!

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If you liked this article, you might also like:

"Looking Forward to a Night Out in the City? Here are 3 Reasons to Ditch Your Heels!" 

"Are You OVER Your Style? Top 3 Tips On How to Reveal the Real You!"

"So You Received Great Customer Service...Now What? My 5 Tips Get You Started!"

NEW Podcast Alert: 'So Chic' with Arzo Anwar is Soooo Worth a Listen!

Before I listen to episode 3 of "So Chic" -- a fresh podcast gem on CBS radio -- I must share why this new wave of fashion, beauty, and pop culture chatter from Arzo Anwar is sooooo worth a listen! 

The number one reason why couture-loving fashionistas, beauty product OCD-ers, and pop culture junkies should tune in: it's REAL. Listening to this podcast is pretty much like being a fly on the wall while the girlfriends you wish you had chat about what's hot, what's not, what's a mystery, and what's sooo over. Whether you agree or not with everything being said, it's all just so juicy and on point that you don't wanna move 'cause you don't wanna miss any of the industry insight.

YES - Arzo is delivering relevant content packaged up in random, fabulous convos. Then again, what else would I expect from this New York City fashion entrepreneur (owner of Blend Showroom), celebrity stylist, and Reality TV star of "Beauty, Sweat & Heels" (Season 2) on Bravo?!

In episode 1, Arzo dishes on NYFW Spring '16 with supermodel and Victoria's Secret Angel Shanina Shaik, while in episode 2, she welcomes fashion designer Samantha Black ("Project Runway" season 11). With different co-hosts by her side for each episode, including comedian Trena B Real on episode 2, this podcast will also get you thinking about your own wardrobe and image. (e.g., "Ta-ta see-through leggings! I knew I should have gotten rid of you years ago!")

Not only do I stand for authenticity when it comes to fashion choices and how one chooses to present him or herself, but I believe in having the chutzpah to use your authentic voice regarding your thoughts on our fashion climate. So I love that Arzo is someone who knows what she's talking about and does so with a raw, entertaining energy and selectively chooses her co-hosts and guests with a similar vibe.

In episode 3, which I'm about to listen to as I stir up breakfast for my sleepy boyfriend in bed, Arzo welcomes celebrity publicist BJ Coleman. The title of the show is called "It spells chic not chick." Um, yeah, I think this is gonna be goooood. Eggs, bacon, and Arzo. That's how I'm spending my morning. What about you?

Keep up with the latest from Arzo Anwar by following her on Instagram and Twitter! Listen in to catch up with all three episodes of "So Chic." 

Photo Credit: www1.play.it

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If you liked this article, you might also enjoy:

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Women's Event Recap: Providing Style Inspiration at Pomona Valley Hospital!

My goal with Good Girl Gone Shopping has always been to inspire women! From providing shopping tips and customer service insight to interviews with industry influencers and product giveaways, I love being a fashion resource. That said, yesterday's event was quite an amazing experience, especially because it was in Pomona... my hometown!

Hosted by Pomona Valley Hospital (and held in its Pitzer Auditorium), the "Coffee & Tea for You & Me" event brought in more than 60 women (shout-out to the efforts of Jodi Previch and Katrina Brown!). As the first speaker, I was honored to help kick off the energy of the day with my presentation: "How to Uncover Your Personal Style."

Some of the areas I covered were: fashion vs. style, retail sales associates and customer service, online shopping vs. in-store shopping, tips for accessorizing, and handbag versatility (in which I used the "Orange Marmalade" handbag from bags4fabs as a demonstration).

One of my favorite parts of the presentation was when I invited one woman to come up to the podium, so I could demonstrate how to wear a scarf several different ways...and three volunteered to come up! It turned out just fine, because I had exactly three scarves to play with. But the reason why I loved this moment oh-so-much is due to the confidence and excitement that poured over these women almost immediately! They became alive and had fun with the crowd, walking back and forth with hands on their hips....like it was their runway! Everyone enjoyed this moment.

Delicious finger foods, refreshments, beautifully adorned tables with floral centerpieces, vendor booths, an amazing Michael Kors handbag giveaway, and the wittiness from the second presenter, author Erika Fernbach, all contributed to the day's wonderful vibe! I was also interviewed by reporter Gabriella Venturo of WOW Action Services prior to my presentation. Footage from our interview as well as the presentation will be coming soon to my upcoming, new YouTube channel. Stay tuned!

Interested in booking me for a speaking engagement! I'd love to chat! Feel free to contact me.

Easy Day-to-Night Outfit Transformation!

The So Cal sun is punishing us this summer! (I mean, we're talking 100+ degree weather.) So when I'm not wearing a loose sundress, I basically live in tanks and leggings or stretchy jeans, with black and white being a typical combo of choice. It's a simple, chic blank canvas that allows for awesome versatility. Not only is this outfit also comfortable for a gal with curves, but it's simple, basic look that can be transformed from day to night with just a few changes of accessories, handbags, and shoes.

While there are tons of fashionistas who wouldn't dare wear the same top and bottom throughout the entire day (especially during the hot season, which I understand), there are others who are often so busy and on the go that they don't have time to make a pit stop to a store and pick up a new outfit or even head home for a change in clothes (me). Quick answer: Bring a change of shoes, earrings, and handbag with you to take your daytime vibe to a nighttime feel. These days, I more commonly wear flats in the evening versus heels, but having the option to adjust my outfit (depending where I'm going) is smart!

Oh, and if you're going to bring these items with you and leave in your car, be sure to put them in the trunk or under your seat so the sun doesn't beat down on them and make them tooooo hot!

(Set created on www.polyvore.com) 

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Are you OVER your Style? Top 3 Tips on How to Reveal the Real YOU!

(Wanna break free from the past? Communicate your true personality in style!)

I know what it’s like to look in the mirror and just think, “Blah. Is that all you got girl?!” It actually took several of these moments in my life before I finally started to truly connect with my personality and breathe new life into my overall image. While I have always appreciated my unique look, such as having a splatter of freckles on my face, gapped teeth, and a huge selection of hair scarves to add color to my outfit (and hide my horrible weaves), I wanted to up my image and reinvent any misconception about what a “writer” looks like. You know, I mean, I’m more than a geeky wordsmith…

I’m a writer with (from what I hear) interesting perspectives, a love for all types of music, a biracial individual with a love for bohemian vibes, and a woman with a natural sense of femininity and appeal. It was time to actually communicate these attributes with the proper mind-frame and look! (Yes, this fashion blogger can admit that she wasn’t feeling quite on point.)

While I didn’t consciously follow a step-by-step guide toward changing my look (that’s kinda lame, right?), I just slowly started to lose my fear of the unknown and realize that I have the power to transform my look into something I’m proud of.

So if you’re way OVER your current style, why not start today? It’s a new day and a new month! Because a fresh beginning can be oh-so-exciting, here are 3 tips that may help you when it comes to revamping your look:  

Look Within: What are you about? What do you stand for? Do you have a purpose in life? Looking within before (or as) you work on your appearance is significant. Maybe now is the time to come to terms with your real passion, the line of work you’re in vs. the line of work you want, budget, beliefs, and goals. I’ve yet to make the big bucks that allow me to jet set, but when I do have a couple dollas that aren’t already assigned to bills, I’ll step foot in a vintage store or an affordable retail outlet like Target, and enjoy treating myself to something special. I’m not quite in the position to go on a shopping spree at Chanel, but there is no reason I should feel shame and not feel pride in what I can afford.

Meditation, working out, and reading inspirational books (or via audio) can also help connect you to your inner self. There’s something pretty awesome that happens when you realize that you actually can lose weight and/or that you can get the job you’ve always wanted. It’s called confidence. And once you’ve increased your confidence, your energy becomes stronger and you will find yourself excitedly considering new ways to add vibrancy to your look -- the ways that communicate your authentic personality.

(Push past your fear! Gradual changes to your appearance can feel really good!)

Create a New Hair Story: When was the last time you tried a new ‘do? There are so many different types of trends to try out these days. From experimenting with a bold color to ditching your long curls and going pixie, the style you choose is a direct reflection of your personality and lifestyle. Just over a year ago, I decided to embrace my natural hair and ethnicity, saying goodbye to weaves, extensions, and relaxers. While I never grew up with the intention of locking my hair, doing so has been a life-altering decision – one that has not only added a special twist to my style; this personal decision has increased my level of spirituality. Dreadlocks are definitely not for the meek, as it takes patience, commitment, and the guts to ditch “the norm.” But this is my unique hair story…Are you at the point in your life where you're ready to write your own story?

Try New Fashion Trends: Before you can embrace the new, you need to understand the old…and possibly even say goodbye to some of it. So start by evaluating your wardrobe! Take a few hours and try on old pieces, creating a “keep” as well as a “donate” (or “sell”) pile. And in doing so, consider what fits, what is actually flattering, how often you wear an item, and whether or not you think you’ll ever wear it again. Once your closet is organized and you are ready to try out new trends, I’d suggest building on with what you already love. If you are obsessed with your pointy-toed stilettos, then maybe it’s the perfect time to invest in a pair of red ones! Wish you had a pair of rocker holey jeans, but not willing to cut up or tear some of your favorite denim pants, head on over to a local vintage or thrift store for an already, worn-in pair of “boyfriend jeans.” Enhancing your style and exploring creative ways to adopt a new trend may happen slowly over time or it may be something you jump on right away. It’s all a matter of timing and how much you know yourself. ‘Cause you won’t be able to choose the right, new pieces to communicate your personality if you’re still dwelling on the old.

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Photo Credit: Instagram pics!

Daisy Gonzalez: The LA Designer Who is Proud to Create Pieces for Women that OWN IT!

("I was always around fabrics..." - Daisy Gonzalez)

With a couture collection continuing to blossom and a passion for dressing women who unapologetically “own it,” Daisy Gonzalez is that humble, Los Angeles fashion designer you’d love to chat with over coffee. I speak from experience, because recently I did just that! And I must say that Gonzalez’s calming and peaceful demeanor combined with her love for creating sophisticated and sexy fashion for the confident, self-aware woman is refreshing.

Since launching her women’s line in 2008, Gonzalez has participated in Los Angeles Fashion Week (which is when I first saw her designs grace the runway!), won an online competition in which she was selected by Patricia Field and flown out to New York for a meet-and-greet, received interest from editors, stylists, and industry tastemakers, and has styled custom-made dresses for multiple celebrities, including K. Michelle and Gloria Lovan.

While this has been quite a journey thus far for Gonzalez, who grew up watching her mom sew, the road doesn’t stop here. The brain behind the “Giselle,” the “Sophia,” and the “Alessandra” – just a few of Gonzalez’s affordable dresses – proves that the right fit can embrace a woman’s curves in the right way!

(Elements of Daisy's creative process.)

Your dress collection is full of sophisticated and sexy styles for women. Tell me what has inspired your line!

Women inspired me. I feel that we, as women, have so many layers as far as who we are. I always remember that and try to tap into that every time I sit down and sketch. I think of women who stand out to me and they are confident, strong, hardworking, stylish, sexy (all in different ways because there is not only one way to be sexy)...they’re just owning it!  That’s the type of women that I design for.

I know that one of your high points as a fashion designer was when you met the world-renowned stylist Patricia Fields, after she hand-picked you from an online competition. What was THAT like?

[Laughs] I remember feeling so nervous that inside I just felt like I froze. Even when she was right in front of me I couldn’t get myself to tell her how amazing I thought she was, even though I’m pretty sure she knows anyway.  She was so sweet, and took the time to really talk to me and take me around her shop. Every time I think about it I have to laugh a little because I can’t even believe something like that happened...it was great.

(K Michelle, on the left, wearing the "Giselle" dress)

You have had the joy of designing multiple celebrities, including Gloria Govan and K. Michelle. Which celebs have you yet to design for but would love to?

Somebody asked me this question not too long ago and I couldn't give a list of names because so many people come to mind. A lot of influential women of course. It's amazing to see somebody in the public eye wearing something that you've put so much work into but it's just as amazing to see somebody who is not in the public eye wearing one of your pieces. They're both great feelings.

Jeannie Mai is wearing one of your dresses in her promo pic for the upcoming show on GSN, "Steampunk'd." Tell me about that dress as well as how it feels to see such a fabulous fashion figure wearing it!!

I was extremely excited to see Jeannie Mae wearing my dress to promote her new show! First, I'm a big fan hers and of the ladies from 'The Real,' but also because it's promoting a show about style and fashion (Steampunk'd). I know she loves fashion and that again makes it all more amazing. 

As for the dress, I fell in love with the fabric first and it just all came together. I loved how regal it looked and a bit untraditional today. I'm happy that it was appreciated and used so beautifully. 

("I loved how regal it looked..." - Daisy Gonzalez on the dress)

From the debut of your fashion collection in 2008 to now, what are some of the most important lessons you’ve gained?

I would say the most important out of the many is to remember that you are not only a designer, but you are a business owner.

Everyone has a favorite place to work and gain inspiration. For me, as a writer, it’s a coffee shop. What about you when it comes to designing?

Any place with an ocean view, or near the beach, will definitely make things flow easier. Most of the time though I’ll be in my home office sketching with music playing in the background.

Do you have a favorite dress in your collection?

Right now my favorite the ALESSANDRA dress. It’s made with beautiful French lace and it has a corset back. It’s just like you said in your first question: sexy and sophisticated.

(2009 - Fitting a model before her first fashion show)

I understand that you would like to start incorporating plus-size fashion in your collection. What inspired you to want to dress women of all shapes and sizes?

You know, until a friend of mine really educated me about the frustrations plus-size women have regarding their fashion choices, I never thought of designing plus-size pieces. It’s something that I would love to get into because beautiful, fabulous women don't just come in a size two.

Is there a certain color or print that looks good on ALL women?

Honestly there are a lot of classic colors that complement most people, but I feel before any of that we have to find a good silhouette to complement each body type. Then, color and prints can be decided.  

What about fashion design made you fall in love with it?

At a young age I was always around fabrics, machines, seamstresses, everything. It was fascinating.  I would say that after those years everything in my life lovingly shifted towards fashion.

What are the 3 essential items you believe all women should have in their wardrobe? 

A great dress, coat (or jacket), and a basic white (or black) top that will go with everything.

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Get social with the Daisy Gonzalez Collection on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest! If you would like to make direct contact with Gonzalez regarding custom-made pieces, please email her at info@daisygonzalez.com.