Yoly

Yoly WM
Yoly Shoes WM

Yoly’s amazing shoes are Jessica Simpson. I have to admit, the awesomeness of these heels has completely converted me to the Jessica Simpson brand. Before, I thought it was just another vapid celebrity line. But honestly they make some really cute things. Whether or not she designs them herself is beside the point, she was obviously smart enough to work with people who can design fashion-forward pieces at an affordable price point that actually sell. That is no small feat since most mass-market brands water designs down to the point of hideousness in an attempt to please everyone. The end result? They end up pleasing no one.

Although she bought hers at Akira, you can buy them online through Zappos with free shipping!

To see close-up photos of Yoly’s “crackle” manicure and feather earrings, visit my new Tumblr!

On Refinery29: Jena Gambaccini

Jena WM
To view today’s post about Jena on Refinery29, click here.
Jena Gamabaccini is one of Chicago’s most prominent fashion bloggers and a good friend of mine. When I was contacted by a search engine to do a commercial about how my friendships influence my blog, Jena was the first person I asked. Jena was also the first person I ever met through blogging and one of my first Twitter followers. She has supported and encouraged me in every way possible. Without Jena’s advice and critiquing, I doubt ChicagoStreetStyle.com would be as successful as it is today.
I photographed her the day before the 8-person film crew flew out from Los Angeles to work with us. We met up to share ideas and most importantly, pick outfits! The commercial is going to be released early next week, and then I can openly talk about the company and the work.

Follow Jena on Twitter (@ChiCityFashion), on BlogLovin’, and on her newly renamed Tumblr.

She also blogs for Shop Influence, is one of the personal style bloggers at The Style Tribe, and is in charge of social media strategy at luxury consignment juggernaut Shop E-Drop Off. Jena also freelances at Refinery29 like me!

Drita

Drita CU WM
Drita is one of those really cool girls who just exudes confidence on the street. Often times I find myself attracted to photographing people who hold themselves well, although in this case it was the accessorizing that did it for me. How cool is the mixture of textures between the geode pendant, glass ring, red scarf and feather earring?