Not only is Alison Marsh a super stylish Tribeca mom of two and e-commerce boss lady for Bottega Veneta, but she also happens to be my best and oldest friend. As Ali likes to say, we popped out holding hands. Growing up, we shared a love of fashion and shopping (and boys and hating everyone) and to this day, there’s no better shopping partner. She helped me pick out my wedding dress and just about everything I like in my closet. One thing Ali has really taught me is the importance of dressing to flatter my body and how to find a great bargain. She’s smart about her purchases, and as a result really wears everything in her closet. When we were roommates I used to get annoyed when she’d borrow stuff I’d never wear and make it look cute and feel jealous I wasn’t wearing it.
Now that she’s a working mom of two, she’s really figured out how to fill her wardrobe with stylish yet versatile pieces that she can actually live in,. When I decided I wanted to launch a series showcasing real women with amazing style, I knew who just to call to be my first boss lady featured, because there really is no one more honest, funny or savvy when it comes to fashion and life.
Describe Your Personal Style
Classic
Favorite Brands…
Jeans: J Brand, Rag and Bone, Gap
Tees: James Perse and Uniqlo
Heels: Saint Laurent and Bottega Veneta
Flats: Prada and Bottega Veneta
Handbags: Bottega Veneta, Prada and Gucci
Work Clothes: Theory, Bottega Veneta, Vince
Outerwear: Moncler
Formal wear: Various
Accessories: My own jewelry
Bras and Underwear: Gap Body
Workout Clothes: Lululemon
Pajamas: Lake Pajamas
Fave Designers
Anything by Amy Similovic. Tibi rocks my world.
Favorite Places to Bargain Shop
Target. I bought the coolest black high top sneakers there that I get so many compliments on.
Favorite Places to Splurge
I buy myself one splurge-worthy cashmere sweater per season. There’s nothing better than a comfy go-to sweater that’s cute and keeps you warm. I prefer Vince or 360cashmere. I also splurge on shoes and handbags. Can’t beat the comfort of Prada footwear or the craftsmanship of a Bottega Veneta handbag.
Where in Your Closet Do You Splurge and Do You Save?
I splurge on shoes and handbags and jewelry. Investment pieces should withstand the test of time.
Work Uniform
Jeans and a blouse or sweater and heels.
Weekend Uniform
Oversized sweaters or tees with ripped jeans or Lululemon leggings.
Going Out Outfit
Leather leggings and off the shoulder top.
Travel Uniform
Oversized scarf to wrap myself in. Loose fitting jeans and slip on sneakers.
Shopping Strategy
I buy what I like when I see it. That way I’m always prepared.
Pieces in Your Closet You Wear Over and Over
YSL tribute pumps (have them in every color)
Jimmy Choo peep toe gold heeled sandals— I wear them to every wedding.
Bottega Veneta leather moto jacket.
Saloni black neoprene off the shoulder cocktail dress.
Morning Routine
It’s quick and easy because I’m navigating getting ready with also prepping my three year old daughter for school.
Pick Out Your Outfits the Night Before or the Morning Of?
I never plan ahead and do it in the morning based on my mood.
How Long Does it Take You to Get Dressed?
5-10 mins
How Often Do You Clean Out Your Closet?
Probably once per year.
On Days You Can’t Deal, What Do You Put On?
That’s not an option for me with a toddler and an infant! On days with no sleep, I throw on my lulu leggings or my ripped Rag and Bone boyfriend jeans.
Favorite Colors to Wear?
Black, I’m a New Yorker! JK, navy and grey. But I also love color. It exudes happiness and confidence.
How Has Being a Mom Changed Your Style?
I wear more oversized, less tight, more figure concealing clothing.
Maternity Style Secrets
Buy regular clothes but a size up. That way you can belt after pregnancy as well.
Favorite Maternity Brands
ASOS
Rosie Pope
Jbrand
Hatch
Gap
Style Icons
Olivia Palermo
Jackie Onassis
Blake Lively
Best Style Advice
Less is more. If you’re wearing statement earrings, skip the necklace. If you’re wearing a killer necklace, forfeit the earrings. Colorful printed dress? Solid clutch.
Comment