BY JESSICA GRIMSLAND
Welcome to the inaugural column of Lake Norman Fashion. This column will be a source of information, inspiration, and instruction of everything fashion related.
The Lake Norman area is an up area in terms of fashion. It has recently been coined “The New York of the South.” From its one-of-a-kind boutiques to its amazingly talented designers, this area has so much to offer those that find style and fashion a passion.
Lake life lends itself to a specific way of styling. In this column, we will explore how life at the lake influences fashion trends and where to go to get these items to add to your wardrobe. This will ensure you are dressed impeccably for any lake activity that may arise.
A little about myself. My name is Jessica Grimsland. I am a fashion stylist. I am originally from New York and moved to North Carolina to raise my kids. I have two amazing boys who are both now in college, so I am an empty nester. I have been married to my high school sweetheart for 22 years. We both love traveling. My love of fashion was cultivated from a very young age. My mother is an impeccable dresser who always puts her best self forward for all occasions, formal and informal. She taught me how to dress well, how to care for my clothes and how to make smart, quality-driven shopping purchases. This knowledge has helped me help others in creating the wardrobe of their dreams. My goal is to have everyone love getting dressed each day. I want them to feel amazing in everything they wear. I want to teach them how to choose quality items, so their wardrobe has longevity.
Each month, this column will educate you, inspire you or help you become the best dressed version of yourself. The Lake Norman area holds some of the best kept fashion secrets around. I look forward to sharing them each month with you.
With fall right around the corner, here are a few of my top tips to help you start creating the fall wardrobe you have always wanted.
As we all know, fall weather in NC can go from the high 90s to the low 60s in one day. So, my first tip is to dress in layers. Layered dressing done right looks elevated and stylish with minimal effort. Layers are not only functional but exude a well put together style.
My second tip is to stick with neutrals and add an accent of a darker fall color to your outfit. Whether it’s a purse, shoes or even glasses, this addition of a rich color to the neutral base gives the outfit a cohesive look without looking trendy or mismatched.
Lastly, cashmere is king! This is one item that I feel everyone should have in their wardrobe no matter what. Cashmere is an expensive item but is a sure investment. Truth be told, if you can’t afford a full price cashmere sweater, go to a local consignment shop. You can get it there for a fraction of the cost. A cashmere sweater never goes out of style and is one of the most versatile pieces that you will ever own. Cashmere has the wonderful ability to keep you warm without overheating your body. It is not a bulky material so you can wear it under or over anything. Cashmere always looks lush and expensive. It’s a great way to look elevated and stylish without even trying.
Implementing these tips will ensure that you have a great start to creating the fall wardrobe that makes you feel amazing and helps you put your best foot forward daily.
I look forward to sharing fashion inspiration, information, and tips with you each month.
Jessica J. Grimsland- Fashion Stylist
Jessica J. Grimsland is a fashion stylist who specializes in creating wardrobes that enable people to feel their best while making ethically responsible purchases. She has a passion for practicing “slow fashion” and focuses on curating a closet that contains quality pieces that are timeless. She believes that everyone should feel amazing in their clothes each day. Jessica teaches people how to shop their closet and become more creative with what they already have. “Shop less and create more” is her mantra. Her personal daily fashion tips and stylish dressing can be seen on her Instagram page at @Jessica_Grimsland .
