Women Crush Wednesday: Natalie Hughes

Natalie Hughes is a personal branding stylist and fashion trend expert who specializes in dressing female entrepreneurs. Natalie believes women's wardrobes should mirror their ambitions and build on the inner confidence and clout they use to run effective businesses.

Natalie started dressing women fifteen years ago in a high-end clothing store. Her instinctual approach and keen eye to style built her a book of regular, diversified clients. Wanting to grow her business, she started her own personal styling service, Individual Style by Natalie Hughes.

Natalie believes there is a unique style for every woman that can best represent her inner power. Allow Natalie to share her gift so you can get back to yours: building a thriving company.

Describe your style?

I am a “chill creative with urban influence”. The California coastal town I live in influences my laid-back style, but the creative and funky side of me loves mixing patterns and colors.

What 5 things do you think every woman should have in her closet?

Black and white striped shirt, comfortable yet fashionable sneakers, cognac wedges, a pair of denim that fits like a glove, and an accessory that showcases the sparkle within.

What are you jewelry box essentials?

Necklaces for layering, hoop earrings, statement earrings, a classic watch, a mix of metals.

How do you feel about vintage? Have you always worn it? New to it? Who introduced you to it? Are you hooked?

I love and appreciate vintage. My nana had a lot of vintage jewelry as far back as the early 1900s and I loved watching how she accessorized her outfits with beautiful jewels. I was lucky to inherit some of those pieces and appreciate the story behind them and the powerful women who wore them before me.

How do you incorporate vintage into your modern day style?

I am a big fan of juxtaposing styles. It creates interest and uniqueness to an outfit. So if I am wearing vintage, I like to pair it with something unexpected like a trend of the current season or really allow it to be the statement piece with a body conscious maxi dress or t-shirt and jeans.

Do you collect anything?

I don’t but only because I believe in having a closet that is diversified so I don’t put any emphasis on one specific area.

Diamonds or pearls?

Diamonds 110%. I love me some sparkle.

Go big or go home or stylish simplicity? (in regards to accessories)

I appreciate stylish simplicity, although I am not afraid to wear pieces that make a big statement. In those situations, I keep everything else simple. It’s all about balance.

Purses or shoes?

That’s tough. A little of both.

Heels or flats?

Flats for me. I appreciate and adore heels, but my ankles won’t let me wear them.

Online Shopping or Brick and Mortar?

There is something about a brick and mortar shopping experience that just can’t be replicated online. I love walking into a small boutique and sharing in the love for fashion with someone else. The way clothing is merchandise, the artistic looks on the mannequins… those are all things that are lost online. I also think it takes a much more trained eye to successfully shop online. What I do appreciate about online shopping is the amount of inventory to choose from. With the right amount of time, I can almost always find the perfect piece for a client because there is a huge selection to choose from.

Most meaningful style related purchase and why?

I didn’t personally make the purchase, but my wedding ring is my most sentimental piece. It is classic yet has an art deco influence so it sets it apart from other wedding rings of this era. The main diamond is the same shape as my mother’s wedding ring (marquis) so there is an element of passing down the tradition of a strong and fruitful marriage.

Celebrity or Style Icon you admire?

Since I was a little girl, I’ve been fascinated with Audrey Hepburn’s style. It was so unique for her time yet turned into this classic persona that is relevant today. I also really appreciate how Rachel Zoe turns vintage items in a modern, current look.

Any other thoughts you would like to share with us about personal style, fashion, collecting/wearing vintage?

Personal style is all about reflecting your personal brand. I like to start the day thinking, “what do I want to tell the world about myself today?” and pick my outfit around that. A lot of times, I feel like women want hard and fast fashion rules to follow but true personal style isn’t about that. It’s about being comfortable in your skin, and wearing things that accurately portray who you are and what you want the world to know about you.

Natalie's Wish List