Hi, all! I’m Samantha Pong, owner of The Opulent Hippo, but you can call me Sammy! I am a Masters in Science graduate, majoring in Parasitology (HUGE JOB DIFFERENCE!) and was recently-married to the love of my life after being together for 10 years. My life now revolves around my two fluffy girls, Abby and Hazel, and my obsession with vintage costume jewelry. You can find me hanging around my fashion Instagram account @theopulenthippo most of the time, so follow me if you like my style and do say hi!
Describe your style?
I am somewhat of a “minimalist maximalist”; I like to keep the backdrop (my clothes) simple, but my accessories loud! However, I never really enjoyed sticking to the rules; to me, style is about feeling comfortable and confident without having to conform to standards that are set by the public, or even yourself!
What 5 things do you think every woman should have in her closet?
A white t-shirt, a black dress (doesn’t have to be “little”), a pair of leopard-print shoes, a fun midi-skirt, and a good pair of jeans!
What are your jewelry box essentials?
A long pearl necklace is a must because it is versatile enough to be worn in a myriad of ways, and it instantly transforms the mood of your outfit. Also, a pair of small, sphere earrings are great; they instantly make you look more put-together.
How do you feel about vintage? Have you always worn it? New to it? Who introduced you to it? Are you hooked?
I absolutely love vintage! In fact, my whole business started from my love for vintage clothes. I’m not new to the concept; I’ve loved vintage items from my mom that I steal from time to time and yes, I am completely hooked. Especially the jewelry!
How do you incorporate vintage into your modern day style?
I make it a point to always wear one piece of vintage jewelry whenever I dress up; it always gives my outfit so much more character. I occasionally mix old jewelry with new ones, but I always prefer vintage. The easiest way for me to incorporate vintage into my style is through statement earrings; they don’t make them like they used to anymore!
Do you collect anything?
Oh, definitely! I collect vintage costume jewelry. Or am I not being obvious enough? HAHA!
Diamonds or pearls?
Pearls. Diamonds are my birthstone, but there is nothing quite like a strand of baroque pearls, especially those by Miriam Haskell!
Go big or go home or stylish simplicity? (in regards to accessories)
I’ll always GO BIG! I am a petite girl, so I often shock people with my accessories, but I get a kick out of it every time!
Purses or shoes?
I can’t believe I had to ask my husband this question and expect him to answer it right for me! I love both so much now, so this is hard, haha. However, I used to not care about purses; I am slowly building my bag collection today.
Heels or flats?
Flats! I killed my own feet from wearing many uncomfortable heels when I was younger, so there is definitely trauma there. I’m a huge fan of slip-on sneakers for casual days, and dressier flats sandals for every other occasion.
Online Shopping or Brick and Mortar?
Definitely online shopping for the convenience and variety. I do love a good thrift store, though!
Most meaningful style related purchase and why?
That would be a vintage Christian Dior necklace I bought and kept for my marriage registration. I found a pair of matching earrings by Schreiner later on, so it’s a set that I will never sell.
Secretly Coveting?
Oh, I have too many “fashion wants”! Only thing constant season after season is my love for Alexander McQueen’s accessories; the perfect balance between tough and romantic. Also, Dolce & Gabbana jewelry!
Celebrity or Style Icon you admire?
I took two weeks to try to figure this out, but I think I draw inspiration from many people; celebrities and normal folks. I admire all the women and men who make dressing up look so effortless!
Any other thoughts you would like to share with us about personal style, fashion, collecting/wearing vintage?
In terms of personal style, my advice is to never let other people tell you what to or not to wear! Wear anything and everything that makes you feel good about yourself; confidence is truly your best outfit. As for collecting and wearing vintage, my advice is to always be hungry for information. Know what you’re buying, and if you don’t, make sure you do as much research as you can. It makes you appreciate your pieces more, and that makes you want to take care of them properly!
Thanks for stopping by! And as always, count on us for all of your styling needs!
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Toni Bryant
July 30, 2017
Fabulous! Absolutely fabulous! Enjoyed reading about Samantha! I love Loud accessories too!