Interview: Chicle De Anya

Anya Lloyd is probably one of the most creative
people I know. We constantly speak ideas, art and
fashion. She has such a unique style and I find myself
inspired by her time and time again. Therefore, it was
so exciting for me to hear she was planning on opening
a boutique here in Houston. It will definitely be what all
you Houstonians have been jonesing. So here is a small
dose to feed your need for that chicle de anya.




1. Background

Art is my first love. I've always been a creative 

kid, and always had a fascination with color and pattern. I would think of the craziest projects to do

 as a kid. So I continued with art all through school,
then went to HSPVA, and later studio art at UH. Honestly, I needed a change, and pursued my art in another form. I started interning with a local Fashion Designer, Chloe Dao (pre-Project Runway), while working with her is when I knew Fashion was my thing.

2. Inspiration/Aesthetic
First off, while I'm working, designing, or painting, music is
always on. Music is Major! ,especially Electronica. I get so inspired by the beats,and patterns they make in my head. When you see my clothes and art, you totally get that influence. My last collection was
called "Visual Noise," the name speaks for itself. Also, artist like Basquiat, Frida Khalo and Bjork are important to me. I'm also inspired by other things, random moments, kids jumping around, anything that involves a real spirit.

3. Chicle De Anya Boutique
In the end there's chicle de anya my line and boutique. It
has been an ongoing project in my head for the past 10 years. I
always wanted to have a place where all aspects of fashion and
art are involved. I think of the boutique as an instillation, a creative
outlet for other young designers to showcase their work. After visiting
awesome boutiques in London and New York, I thought, "I have to
bring this to Houston." Houston is filled with artistic people, and so many
young up-and-coming designers; we can be amazing. The plan is to open
August 9, at 238a West 19th st. in the Heights. Where you can find art-inspired
edgy street wear, from my hoodie to yours. You can purchase my line there,
and other local designers. You will definitely see more casual clothes than
dressier items. I mean, we don't want to dress up everyday, but still look cool, right?

Official Site for Chicle De Anya
Add Anya on Myspace:
www.myspace.com/chicledeanya

All Photos and Styling by EV.

What To Wear To A Job Interview

Looking to land a new job? Style expert Kim Johnson Gross helps you put your best foot forward with the perfect interview outfit.
Click here for a two minute video

Source: About.com

So you got the job... now what to wear that is not so boring.

Wrap Dress
This dress can transform from stylish work attire to an evening of cocktails with a mere change of accessories. This is one of the most versatile and flattering pieces for every woman. It is a classic and a staple item for any fashion conscious woman.


American Apparel $44.00 americanapparel.net
This is probably the most basic wrap dress I have found. I like it because it is simple and clean cut and you can over accessorize! The 3/4 sleeve is very ideal for a shorter frame and the V neck helps enlongate your figure.

You can find a variety of wrap dresses ranging from $25-$99 on overstock.com
Also here is a very brief history lesson from wikipedia.org :
Diane von Fürstenberg is best known for introducing the knitted jersey "wrap dress" in 1973, an example of which, due to its important influence on women's fashion, is in the collection of the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Shirt Dress
I've talked about it before and here are some more options for this classic look.


To The Max by BCBG $54.99 Overstock.com
I love this jade color. This style is very flattering to any figure due to tying at the natural waist
with an A-line shape. This outfit is ideal for day or night, business or fun.

Pencil skirt


Wool Pinstriped Skirt $78.00 BananaRepublic.com

Fitted Blazer


Lux 70's Blazer $68.00 urbn.com

I ran into this shirt and it's rather cute for $4.00. I specifically like the collar. Not to mention it would look fabulous with the blazer above.


Ruffle Front Blouse $4.00 Walmart.com


Look at the detail. I love it.

All of the above pieces will never go out of style, therefore I suggest quality once again. Do not forget that just because something is expensive does not make it good quality. Check for good construction. Do this by checking seam and hems and making sure everything matches up right. A lot of the times the fabric alone can tell you quality. Always search for good quality fabrics.

Also make sure there is no puckering or pulling of the fabric at the seams. There is nothing more unflattering than puckering.

You can always update your look with accessories. (Jewelry, scarves, head band, tights, etc...) Add a chunky bracelet or maybe a simple thin watch. The key is to accessorize and make it your own.

I promise I will do this for men as well.