The Sisterhood Series: Whipping Up A Career

In this installment of The Sisterhood Series, I interviewed Afra Abdeen. I met Afra in high school and she currently lives (and goes to university) in New Zealand. She is an avid baker, a great writer and a dedicated volunteer. To read more about what the series is all about and why I launched it,click here.

Who are you and what do you do?

I am a university student. Studying psychology and marketing and just on my final semester of a bachelor of arts and business conjoint degree . I am also the current president of SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) at Auckland University of Technology here (AUT) in New Zealand.

What does a normal day look like for you?

This question made me laugh as I am currently getting my head around what it looks like for me too. In addition to being a student and running an organisation, I also work part time at a call center in uni. So my typical day is one big balancing act where I run between work, study, SIFE, friends and family. Conveniently this semester, SIFE also acts as my work experience for my degree. So study + SIFE mesh in together (time saver - YAY!).


What inspired you to be involved with Students In Free Enterprise?
SIFE is a global, not for profit, student-run organisation that originated in the United States. There are about 1600 SIFE institutions worldwide so SIFE AUT is one of many. All SIFE teams work towards improving people's quality of life and standard of living through a consideration of relevant social, economic and environmental factors. This is achieved through the creation of community outreach projects. Essentially, we are all changemakers looking to achieve the best for the communities we live in by applying our skills as students along with an entrepreneurial approach. I got involved in SIFE in 2011 when the last faculty advisor of SIFE AUT who also happened to be a lecturer of mine told me all about it. I was half way through the 3rd year of my degree at that time and needed to find one extra paper to do with nothing really calling to me. SIFE at AUT University is unique in that students can get academic credit for their invovlement. So it represents a paper as well. Hearing it from my lecturer's perspective convinced me that I had finally found something awesome to do. I applied to be a member, was interviewed, accepted and so the journey began. After my first month in the organisation - I was hooked. I have volunteered ever since and was also fortunate to have been elected president in October last year. I ended up finding what really has turned out to be a dream job - managing a group of energetic, enthusiastic and passionate people who all share the same values and want to change the world!

Can you describe the Live Below The Line project you were involved in with SIFE?

SIFE teams have the opportunity to work collaboratively on projects. In New Zealand
there are three active SIFE teams with a few more coming on board this year. The teams had never worked together on a project before, so last year I initiated discussions and we created our first ever collaborative venture. We decided that we needed to strengthen the brand name of SIFE NZ here as a lack of recognition was a challenge. One of the members in the discussion recalled that the Live Below the Line challenge was happening two weeks away from the date of discussion. We decided to create a team together and participate in it.

The Live Below The Line challenge is set up by the Global Poverty Project and happens across USA, UK, Australia and New Zealand at various times of the year. In this challenge people live on food and drink that amount to their country's equivalent of the Extreme Poverty Line everyday for 5 days. In the case of New Zealand that is $2.25 a day. You then get people to sponsor your team for your efforts and collect money for one of the participating charities or organisations who work toward the eradication of extreme poverty. Our team raised funds for the Global Poverty Project. With about 15 participants we collected over $3000 and were the 3rd highest fundraising team in New Zealand. It was a humbling and amazing experience for all of us who were simply a group of university students. One of the team members actually went through the entire 5 days living on water alone. We never expected to achieve so much so shortly. It was certainly an eye opener and showed us how much we can achieve simply by taking action!

You also bake in your spare time! What inspired you to start baking and cooking?

Baking is as far as I get - cooking is this whole unexplored realm that I am nowhere near ready to step into! The cake making is something that just came up while I was home for summer in 2008. My dad is a baker by profession and he and I made a cake for my little cousin's birthday. It was fun and I discovered for the first time that I had patience for what is a time-consuming task! It took off from there really. Someone wanted a cake and then another person and another and I got plenty of practice with dad on hand with the tips and tricks. Eventually my friend thought I was good enough and paid me for an order and things have just gone from there. It's purely interest based and dependent on my free time, but I love the creative outlet it provides! Never knew I had it in me. I just enjoy making things look pretty - sounds rather strange when put it that way haha! The look on kids or even some of my friend's faces when they see their favorite characters or ideas come to life is priceless! It is the most exciting part of what I do, I reckon.

From left: Layered chocolate cupcakes with chocolate mousse filling, ganache icing and white chocolate drizzle; Strawberry & white chocolate gateaux

From Left:  Coffee flavored cupcakes with honey-roasted almonds & macadamias;  Vanilla cupcakes with chocolate mousse and roast almond sprinkles 

Do you have a business?

I say no, but my baking does look like a small business. For me though it's just that other thing I do and I can't conceptualize it as one. I would love to set up something of my own at some point, but I am yet to find that idea that I want to take further. Social enterprise is certainly something that would be my focus now after all this exposure with SIFE. Ideally I would like to combine my love of baking into something truly creative. Big dreams!

How would you describe your personal style and attitude?

My style is certainly more girly than not, but I am happiest in my PJs or high heels - a random combination, but I was going for a contrast there!  I feel the most confident when I am happy with what I'm wearing. I am a comfort-over-anything else kinda shopper. By that I mean I have to feel comfortable in the outfit for the day. I do believe clothes affect your mood and that is important to me. If I have a bad day, I look to wear things that make me feel amazing to just help. So sometimes weird, often conservative but always dictated by comfort and mood is the best way I can describe myself and my personal style. 

How has your customs affected your style and how you dress? Do you get judged for it or do people admire it?

I am a Muslim and my parents have always brought me up to dress modest. So for me no sleeveless clothing or short stuff. It's all about covering up. It's TOUGH to find that balance where I don't look like a grandma; am pleasing everyone that judges my outfits and  I actually feel good! Tights, cardis and blazers are my best friends, but sometimes I just get frustrated because I do think sometimes less is more and needing to cover up just kills some looks! However, it is the most satisfying feeling when I manage to pull together something that I am happy wearing and still get the tick on being modest and covered. It is still a FINE line though. I won't ever please everyone, so I've learnt to accept that and make the most of it!

What is/are the piece(s) in your closet that you consider a favorite at the moment?

Ooh that's a good question! I think it would have to be the tube dress I got for my friend's wedding in January as it can go from casual to formal just by changing what cardigan or blazer I team up with it! I also adore this black blazer I got for a bargain online but works awesomely with skinny jeans or pants or even dresses. The sea green and salmon pink pairs of jeans I just bought because I was so over black tights!! All my heels but my favorite is my Guess ones that I was dying to get for ages and finally invested in!!

 

How do you like to relax and spend your weekends?

With friends and family, baking or even just good books and movies. I love coffee or brunch dates and well , all things food! I spend most of my time bonding over food with friends and have some regular haunts. Sunny days are my favorite and just being in the sun will always be chillaxing for me!I do believe in 'me' time too, especially on those days where there's just so much going on! I like to then go for a walk, shop, take a drive somewhere and do something impulsive and 'treat' myself!

What motivates you?

Wow. I think it's people. Friends, family or even just those awesome people you meet or hear about every day. I feel like I always learn a little more from them that pushes me and gives me ideas and inspiration. I work to ensure that the people who matter to me and are close to my heart are proud of my actions. That is what governs and motivates me.

What are you most passionate about?

Right now it's my work at Students For Free Enterprise and the opportunity it has given me to make a difference. I want to keep doing that no matter I do. I want to keep giving back and being a changemaker. I have discovered that this passion drives me and will certainly look to pave a career path with this in mind.

Where would you like to be in five years?

I can't plan that far, nor do I think I have to. There are so many life-changing things that happen to direct people into something. I want to have my eyes open for that and not miss those opportunities by being too planned. But I think I want to always be at a point where I can be happy with where I am and what I am achieving. So even if I didnt know five years ago that this is what I would be doing, I can say that I would have liked to describe where I am today to someone as my ideal. I guess what i am trying to say is that five years ago if someone asked me where I see myself in the future, I would have wanted to tell them here, doing exactly what I am right now.

How do you sparkle and spice up your life?

By doing things I have never done before, pushing boundaries and testing limits. Which can also translate to - taking on too much, keeping busy and constantly working on injecting the right balance with friends and family.

Or just by wearing a fantastic pair of heels!

"There are many wonderful things that will never be done if you don't do them." -Charles D. Gill

I hope Afra's story inspires you to always keep your eyes and your mind open to opportunities. You might discover a hidden talent and a new hobby during a lazy summer.  A paper for a class may lead you in the direction of doing what you love as a career. All it takes is to keep looking for those opportunities, those moments which, if you seize them, will take you on a whole new journey in this road called life. 


XO-Chrissy

The Sisterhood Series: Creating Your Path To Success

In this installment of The Sisterhood Series, I interviewed Hannah Halvorson, a pretty young lady with some serious creative skills! Hannah is a dancer, singer and a coach. She also has a photography business, loves to craft and is recently engaged. I knew about Hannah through a friend of mine and although we haven't met (yet!) I feel like I already know her. She is very friendly, polite and positive - I felt that she could easily be the poster girl for The Sisterhood Series. To read more about what the series is all about and why I launched it, click here.

Photo taken by Danger Fox Photography

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Hannah Halvorson and I am an aspiring photographer. 

What does a normal day look like for you?
Well, most recently, my typical day consists of working at Starbucks for 8 hours, then soaking in a bath and watching my favorite shows! I've been pretty lazy in the evenings lately. On weekends, I spend time with my fiancé. 

What inspired you to be a photographer? Where do you draw inspiration from?

There was a photograph I took a few years ago at a Renaissance Fair of a young girl chasing after bubbles. The photograph held such a magical, whimsical moment, that it actually inspired me to take more. From there, I discovered I had a passion for capturing those little moments that can speak worlds of magic. I get inspiration from music, books, and naturally other people’s photography. Oh, and America’s Next Top Model!

Some of Hannah's photographs

You also like to do crafts, sing and dance! When did you start and what inspired you? I've been crafting ever since I can remember. Give me a piece of paper, and I will find something to do with it! I've made wall art, stationary, journals, scarves, magnets, stuffed animals, jewelry, clothing, purses, lamp shades, picture frames… really, if it’s something I can make, I’ll try it. I've also been singing from the beginning. I grew up on Shania Twain so I’ve got a little twang in me, but my musical interests are now all over the place. I took voice lessons, was in a few choirs growing up and into college, was big into theater in high school, and in the last few years I've been writing and performing my own music, as well as with my new band Play Nice! I started dancing when I made my high school’s dance team in ninth grade. I worked my way up to captain the following year, and now I’m coaching the team! I just finished my third year of coaching, and can honestly say it is by far the greatest, most rewarding job I've ever had. The girls I get to work with are so precious and talented, and I am in a position to encourage and inspire them with dance. I plan to coach for as long as I physically can!

(Left) Hannah singing in her band Play Nice! (Photo by Alicia Victoria Staker) and (Right) sitting in her living room - the wall art  behind her is her own work.

""Steam Heat" - I was Gladys in The Pajama Game. Probably my favorite role ever!" ~ Hannah

What is it like to have your own business at such a young age? When did you know you were ready to start your own business?
Oh man. To be brutally honest, it doesn’t feel incredibly special. There are so many photographers my age and even younger that are starting their own businesses these days. It’s an art that can easily be shifted into a business, it seems. It’s a little saddening in that respect, but it’s also very inspiring to know that photography is becoming so big in our age group! The moment I knew I was ready to start a business was quite simply the first time someone told me they would pay me for a photograph I had taken. When I saw that my work had a monetary value as well as an emotional affect, I knew it was something I could run with. 

How would you describe your personal style and attitude?
My personal style is all over the place. One day I’ll look like a girly girl in floral dresses and soft colors. The next day I’ll look like a punk rocker in shredded shirts and bold prints. But comfort is key! I just like to be creative and switch it up as much as I can. I’ve been cutting my own hair since 10th grade, and have had every color under the sun in it (except green!). Right now it’s a short boy-cut, but I’m growing it out.

My photography style is pretty identical to what I just described. In one shoot, I might do something ethereal and whimsical, and the next might be full of pops of color and sass! For instance, I recently did a snow-goddess-esque shoot with a good friend of mine, but have some wild plans for my next session! My attitude is alwaysalwaysalways positive. You will rarely see me frowning or complaining. Life has too many magical things to offer, so I find it hard to stay negative for too long!

(Left) Hannah based this outfit on the cover of the book she is holding!

Describe how you dress for your day job and your day-to-day life outside of your job.
At Starbucks, I am required to wear all black. When coaching, I wear yoga pants or sweats with sneakers or jazz shoes. When I’m not working, I like to wear dresses, sweaters, skinny jeans, leg warmers, boots. I love layers. I’m not a big shorts girl. Not a big accessories girl either. Well, I LOVE jewelry and hair pieces, and I have a lot of them, but never take the time to accessorize. 

What is/are the piece(s) in your closet that you consider a favorite at the moment?
I got this neat dress from Hot Topic that is black with hot pink cats on it! I adore cats. I’m allergic to them, but I love them. Also, my staple skinny jeans from American Eagle. My fiancé got them for me for Christmas! They are the first skinny jeans in a long time that actually fit right and look right. Finally, my Oreo’s sweatshirt. It’s blue, collared, and has dancing Oreo’s in top hats on it. I found it at a thrift store in Seattle! People either find it hilarious or atrocious, but I love it!


How do you like to relax and spend your weekends?

To relax, I watch a LOT of tv. I don’t have cable or anything, so I have to watch everything online. On the weekends, I spend time with my fiancé Michael. He lives in Williston, so we go back and forth, or meet up in Minot, where he grew up.

What motivates you?
Deadlines. If there were no deadlines, I would get nothing done. Honestly, that’s about it. If I’m being honest with myself, I’m an incredibly lazy person. But no one would notice because I keep so busy! If I have a million things to do all the time, then I am able to keep going.

What are you most passionate about?
So many things… But if I had to choose one, I’d say music in general. The creation of it, the inspiration from it, the movement to it, and the emotions in it.

Where would you like to be in 5 years?
Married to Michael, maybe with a kid or two by then. Still coaching, still taking pictures, still making music. My life is so blessed right now, I’d like my future to be much like what my present is.

How do you sparkle and spice up your life?
Oh wow, what a neat question! Umm… I guess I’d have to say by finding new things! New styles, new music, new ideas. I’m constantly switching it up, but always holding on to old classics.

"...the overpowering necessity to create, create, create — so that without the creating of music or poetry or books or buildings or something of meaning, their very breath is cut off… They must create, must pour out creation. By some strange, unknown, inward urgency they are not really alive unless they are creating.” - Pearl Buck

I hope Hannah's story creates in you the determination and drive to go towards your dreams. Never miss the opportunity to be creative - it truly does add depth and dimension to your life. You don't have to be Picasso or Michelangelo, all it takes is to sing in the shower, dance when nobody's watching, have fun with a DIY project or indulge in a home cooked meal.


XOXO- Chrissy

The Sisterhood Series: Sewing Towards Your Dreams

Hey lovely readers!

Here is the second post in The Sisterhood Series! But first, what is it all about? Well, I launched the series in celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day. I see and hear so many things about women being our own worst enemies and we are so catty and just not supportive of each other. I wanted to change it, at least in some small way and so this series was born. Each post, I focus on a girl I personally know who has style, sass and doing something in their lives that they absolutely love! These girls are just like you and me and provide real-life inspiration, and I hope that their stories will help us learn and support girls all over the world, whether or not they fit into your ideal stereotype of your best girlfriend. We have come so far in elevating our status in what has been (and still is to a large extent), a man’s world. To read my original post, please click here. And without further ado, please meet Kaushala Liyanage. 

Kaushala and I are friends from school in Sri Lanka. She has always been a really nice girl with a great personality and easy-going attitude. She moved to England to pursue a degree in fashion designing, but had to quit school due to the high cost of such a degree. However, this has not stopped her from chasing her dreams. She continues to follow her heart and get closer to her goals, one high-fashion stitch at a time :) Here's my interview with her:

Who are you and what do you do?

Hello I’m Kaushala Liyanage! I am 23 years old and for now, I am a freelance fashion designer living in England.

What does a normal day look like for you?

I work full-time. When I get home I like to unwind with some tea, and plan things for tomorrow.

You’re moved to England to pursue a degree in fashion designing. What inspired your interest in all things fashion?

Well I have stopped going to university because I didn’t have enough funds to support myself, so I am working full time now. I’m saving to start my label and my store - I have just a little more to earn so I can reach my goal. What inspires me? Well everything that’s beautiful, everything that’s around me, mainly things from nature. I also find inspiration from other designers like Valentino, Stefano Pilati and Riccardo Tisci.

When did you know you wanted to become a fashion designer?

I knew when I saw a dress by Valentino on TV. I was around six or seven years old. I remember I had this book where I would draw designs – I used to get so mad at myself for not knowing how to illustrate the detailing the way I imagined it in my head. My parents kept the book. It’s all I ever wanted to do.

Describe a typical day of design school.

It was the best time of my life, I enjoyed every second of it. I got to go to Paris and see the fashion museum, the biggest fabric exhibition, and toured the city. It was a great experience and something I never thought I would be able to do.

Kaushala's designs from her first collection - "Lola"

You recently started creating your own pieces. Tell me about the whole process.

Yes I have and it was so hard yet so much fun. It’s the most rewarding experience, especially when you see the collection evolve from a simple flower to a fully developed design.

A model wears Kaushala's design from her Lola collection

What are the experiences you have had in the fashion industry? Have you been to London Fashion Week?

I did go to London Fashion Week once. It was beyond amazing! A lot of my experience in the industry came from my time in design school; my trip to Paris also gave me so much insight. Right now my experience comes from just doing my own thing, designing and doing what I love. I learn something every day.

How has living in so many cities in the world affected your style? How did you adapt your style?

I love this question, it’s amazing how much the high street, and street fashion can influence you. It stuns you how different people are when putting one outfit together, it’s like a fingerprint. It’s different in every country and it has a lot to do with the environment and culture of the people.

Describe how you dress for your day job and your day-to-day life outside of your job.

I like things I feel comfortable wearing. Whenever I go out it depends on where I go and who I go out with. So I put something together depending on these points, oh and the weather.

How would you describe your personal style and attitude in life? 

My personal style is very chic, classic, with a little bit of Boho. I don’t like jewelry much, if I do wear some it’s always a pair of earrings. I do love a very deep black eye and red lipstick is wonderful! My attitude towards life, I like to take it one day at a time. I really do love living; I am not scared of the future. And I’ll never give up on my dreams.

What is/are the piece(s) in your closet that you consider a favorite at the moment?

My black brogue shoes is a favorite right now.

How do you like to relax and spend your weekends?

I love going to the park that’s next to my house and I love cooking with my husband.

What motivates you?

My parents and my siblings, whenever I think about them I know I need to do my best.

What are you most passionate about?

Life and love

Where would you like to be in 5 years?

In my own little boutique making dresses, doing what I love.

How do you sparkle and spice up your life?

I add spice to my life by living in every single moment.

Just around the corner in every woman's mind - is a lovely dress, a wonderful suit, or entire costume which will make an enchanting new creature of her.  ~ Wilhela Cushman 

I hope you enjoyed reading Kaushala's story and take away some inspiration from it. Her dreams did not get handed to her on a silver platter, but what you see is a determined young woman, with a love for life and fashion, doing everything possible to get one step closer and finally achieve her dreams. So don't let obstacles stop you from doing what you love. See them as a challenge instead because what doesn't kill you will only make you stronger.

xoxo-Chrissy

The Sisterhood Series: Dancing Through Life

To celebrate Women's History Month and International Women's Day, I launched The Sisterhood Series, in support of all kinds of women, from all walks of life. It is so important to stick together and be there for each other. Our predecessors did so much in the name of women's rights - we can vote, we can drive, we can wear pants and carry a briefcase better than any man. But like they say, with great power comes great responsibility. We have gained a voice along with freedom but there is much to be done, much to still stand up and fight for. And we can do it. If only we look around and hold hands with other women and work towards the same goal. You can read the intro post of The Sisterhood Series here.

For the first post in the series, I could think of no-one better to start with than Katya Bryleva. 

"There is a bit of insanity in dancing that does everybody a great deal of good."  ~Edwin Denby

We met in university and if there was one thing I quickly learned about Katya was that she loved to dance. No - she lived, breathed and exuded dance. But that's not all there is to Katya (pictured above). This feisty lady hails from Tula, Russia; she is 24 years old and got a job straight out of college as an Assurance Accountant at Ernst & Young, one of the "Big Four" accounting firms in the world. While Katya is a young accountant by day, this free-spirited woman transforms into a dancer by night, bringing the roof down with her mad skills! Here is my interview with her:

1. Who are you and what do you do?

Hi! I'm Katya Bryleva. I'm from Russia, went to the University of North Dakota for college and I now live in Minneapolis, MN and work for Ernst and Young. I also recently started my own dance studio in the Twin Cities with my friend and partner, Amy Dorman.


2. What does a normal day look like for you?
There is really no standard pattern so far. Depends on the time of the year (we are in busy season right now at my accounting job) and client location. But no matter what the day brings me I try to always have time for breakfast (the most important meal of the day!); during that time I get the right nutrients and mentally organize/re-organize my day and catch up on the news.  A workout (running, dance, Pilates), even if it is just 40 minutes. I try to have some social interaction with people that are important to me through a quick phone call, coffee break together, an email. It is safe to say that the rest of the time is occupied with work.

Katya performing at Feast of Nations with her partner, Andy Tanem

Katya (third from right) in her early dance days

3. You started dancing at a very early age. What inspired you to continue dancing?
It’s just never been an option not to dance. Even at an early age,  before my  actual training began, every time I had a chance to dance I would : at family functions,  on the street, in a grocery store  ( I still  have my mini jam sessions as I am browsing through Target aisles!).  There were a couple of moments in  my life when I was stupid  enough (due to family pressure, moving and other life transitions)  to try  to convince myself  that me and dance are going to have separate lives from now on, but thankfully that never happened.  As I became more mature and confident in my decisions, I realized how lucky I am to find something in life that truly makes me feel alive and helps me power through any life circumstances.  Not everyone discovers that through their lifetime.  And how powerful it is to be able to share your passion with others and to be able to influence people’s lives in a small way: one dance lesson at a time.

4. And eventually start your own dance class?

When I moved to Minneapolis I tried out a few studios, but none of them quite gave me what I wanted, probably because teaching gives me way more satisfaction as opposed to just taking the class.  In one of the classes I met my future partner, Amy Dorman. It only felt natural to start teaching together.  Both of us had been accumulating some creative energy (every time I hear a new great song, I start mentally choreographing) that we wanted to share. So after our first meeting in my kitchen, we started planning, marketing, looking for space to rent and a month later we had our first class.

5. What is it like to be an accountant by day and a dancer/business owner by night?

Busy! And Fun!  They are two quite contrasting worlds. The first one is all about following the rules, predictability, staying within the borders and not creating discrepancies in your work, words or clothes.  The second one encourages individuality, creativity, and pushing yourself in directions you've never been.  At the same time there are lots of skills that are transferable from one world to another: accounting knowledge is a must for a business owner; as a dance/fitness instructor my clients come from a variety of backgrounds, including the business world. Knowing what they are facing on a daily basis helps me to understand what their fitness needs are, before they even realize that themselves; being physically fit and knowing how to relax helps me to stay sane at my accounting job.

From belly-dancing and ballet to zumba and flash mobs - this girl's done it all!

With business partner, Amy Dorman.

6. How would you describe your personal style?

Developing my personal style is a work in progress, which takes time and creativity (especially since I am on a budget. Usually shoes are the most expensive item in my wardrobe because I am always on the go and want shoes that look great and feel great. I also don’t mind spending on great fitting jeans/pants.  But when it comes to seasonal must-haves like scarves, hair bands, party dresses, I frequent places like Forever 21 or Target. At the end of the day, it is YOU who makes the clothes, not the other way around.

7. How has living in so many cities in the world affected your style? How did you adapt your style?

Russian women pay close attention to the latest fashion and like to emphasize (in some cases by overdoing it) their feminine side. I used to be the girl that wears three inch heels to go grocery shopping across the street from home. So coming to North Dakota was a bit of a shocker to me (I still can’t get over the fact that wearing ugly huge backpacks is a common practice for ladies). My first day of classes I was dressed like it was a normal Grand Forks Friday night. I have learnt my lessonJ. When I started teaching two/three dance classes per day between my classes and jobs, I opted for shoes that can get me quickly from one building to another- an urban look that went great with who I am as a hip hop dancer. It was comfortable to dance in, yet did not look like worn out sweat pants and my uncle’s t-shirt.  Moving to New York was a life changing moment in many aspects, clothes included. Streets of New York are the most inspirational fashion place for me and many others. Creativity and individuality is what people are striving for and they do it well. I have learnt to include more ethnic inspired patterns, started listening to my instincts, and reconnected with my feminine side.  I used to have certain stores that I would typically go to, but while in NYC I started searching for “me” pieces at a variety of places.

8. Describe how you dress for your day job and your day-to-day life outside of your job.

 My work environment is one of the most conservative places when it comes to dress code - no sleeveless tops, no open-toed shoes, and no crazy patterns. So it is challenging to make it more like me, less like stereotypical accountant from the movies in a black suit and a briefcase.  Accessories have been lifesavers for me.  Chunky bracelets, colorful necklaces, purple/leopard print shoes are the pieces I have been incorporating lately. I am also on a constant search for multi-functional pieces.  I own a few tops that you can wear as business casual with a jacket over it during the day, but when it comes night time, leaving the jacket at work, adding a belt or other accessories turns them into a perfect going out outfit.  For daily life beyond my job skinny jeans and leggings work great for dancing, casual weekends, and going out. 

"I like to have one “statement piece” in my outfit: boots, a purse, a belt, anything in color that makes the most 'normal' wardrobe piece look fresher." Here, Katya is a rocking a short sleeved animal print jacket, which makes a basic turtleneck and jeans combo go from blah to rawr!

9. What is/are the piece(s) in your closet that you consider a favorite at the moment? I am currently in love with colored pants: bright blue jeans and red dress pants.  They just add a little more color and fun to my life and helps me to distinguish myself from others yet stay within work appropriate borders.  One shoulder tops have been my favorites for years for dancing and going out/casual chic outfits. And my sneaks/white converse shoes are dear to my dancer heart.

10. How do you like to relax and spend your weekends?

Taking dance classes; having breakfast in cute coffee shops with a book; shopping; sleeping; catching up with friends; skyping with my family and wandering around the unknown parts of the city with one of my best friends, my iPod.

Katya (left) with close friend, Kate Sharkova

11. What motivates you?

Passion and people and people with passion. Passion for what you do in everyday life and people you are with. I really believe that a handful of passionate individuals can change the world, or impact someone’s life, even if it is one person at a time. I believe that everyone matters. I have deep appreciation for everyone’s individuality and not fitting into standards. Humankind never ceases to inspire me and to give me numerous learning and growth opportunities.  I  was extremely lucky to  meet a few  people that  I can call my mentors and who always manage to provide me with some guidance and inspiration when I need it most.

12. Where would you like to be in 5 years?

In NYC having my own studio (or two) with dance classes for adults, making people healthy and happy!

13. How do you sparkle and spice up your life?

Travelling, exploring, learning...and shoe shopping of course!

“Dance for yourself, if someone understands good. If not then no matter, go right on doing what you love.” ~Unknown

You can check out dK Hip-hop's YouTube channel here. I hope Katya's story inspires you. And remember, even if you think you're not good at it, just let go and dance because it makes the world a better place. Life is meant to be danced away. Follow your passion - it could be juggling, or rock climbing - doesn't matter what it is, just do it!

But don't forget to always dance.
XO-Chrissy


[Photos taken from Katya's Facebook]

The Sisterhood Series: Supporting Real Girls All Over The World

Why hello there!

I'm going to cut to the chase here. March is Women's History Month and this Thursday is International Women's Day. Our predecessors did so much in the name of women's rights - we can vote, we can drive, we can wear pants and carry a briefcase better than any man. But like they say, with great power comes great responsibility. We have gained a voice along with freedom but there is much to be done, much to still stand up and fight for. And we can do it. If only we look around and hold hands with other women and work towards the same goal - even if that goal is to support other women and help them up instead of bringing them down. I see and hear so many things about women being our own worst enemies; we are so catty and just not supportive of each other. I wanted to change it, at least in some small way. So here's to celebrating women in all our shapes and forms, supporting one another through our good days and bad and helping each other realize their dreams from the tiniest speck to the larger-than-life. 

I like to celebrate big, so I am launching 'The Sisterhood Series', a series of posts through March, where I will interview real ladies whom I personally know. These ladies are strong, independent, stylish and sassy. They also have goals and dreams and are doing something about it. They are real life inspiration, your everyday girls without all the fluff and photo retouching. Girls like you and me, who have an opinion and are not afraid to let it be heard. They come from so many different backgrounds and different parts of the world. I hope that their stories will help us learn and support girls all over the world, whether or not they fit into your ideal stereotype of your best girlfriend. Get pumped, because it will be an exciting journey full of real-life stories and real-life inspiration.

Credits: Photos of Kylie Minogue taken by photographer Ellen von Unwerth.

"I'm a woman of mad competence. I'm very optimistic. I have high self-esteem. I give myself choices, and I always feel as if I belong." ~ Unknown

Source

Bisous et câlins,

Chrissy

Disclaimer {9/11/13}: I know Kylie Minogue prancing around in a bunch of pink isn't exactly your average "real girl", I just put them here because they are colorful, fun and playful - which I think is positive. Also these are some qualities that a lot of us girls have and/or aspire to have just because being positive and playful and yes, colorful makes us feel good and heals our souls and you got it, adds a little spice to our lives. Besides, I'm a grown woman, I can do whatever I want (quoting Queen Bey, of course).