“Accessory Queen”

At first glance, Danielle Gray, 31, doesn’t look her age.

When I spotted her hanging out with friends in the Plaza-Midwood area, she wore her hair in a fabulous retro-styled updo that reminded me of someone right out of the 1950’s. I could tell she enjoys fashion and likes to make a statement with her clothing.

Gray is an urban planner/consultant. A newcomer to Charlotte, here’s what she had to say about her personal style:

Q. How would you describe your style? I would describe my style as “urban chic.” It’s funky and hip yet polished and sophisticated.

Q. Where do you shop? I shop at local boutiques like Lotus on East Boulevard, vintage thrift stores and department stores.

Q. Are you into specific designers?

I don’t keep up with fashion designers. Simply put, if I like something I buy it. It doesn’t matter to me if it’s Gucci or Isaac Mizrahi.

Q. What item in your wardrobe can’t you live without?

I absolutely cannot live without my accessories. My friends call me the Accessory Queen. I love scarves, hats, earrings, necklaces and coats/jackets. I consider coats/jackets an accessory because they accentuate your outfit. They come in a variety of different lengths, cuts, fabrics and colors.Therefore, it is important to choose the right one to wear because a coat/jacket can easily make or break your outfit.

Q. What’s your latest fashion obsession?

I am obsessed with broaches. They are classic, sophisticated and create a very polished look.

Q. What’s your latest splurge?

I recently purchased a pair of red patent leather Mary Jane-style shoes. I love those shoes because they are so versatile. They have a 2-inch heel and look fabulous with skinny jeans, skirts and slacks.

Q. What style would you not be caught wearing?

I would not be caught dead wearing pants or a skirt suit with tennis shoes.

I would not wear clothing that’s too flashy with the designer’s name plastered all over it. I also dislike wearing the same trends that everyone else is wearing. It’s good to have your staple pieces. But I don’t like looking like everyone else. I try to add my own unique “flava” to a particular style to make it my own.

Q. What are the names of the beauty products you use?

I am into natural skin and hair care products that are free of harsh chemicals. I use shea butter and black soap on my skin and Taliah Waajid products on my locs. I do facial masks with honey and oatmeal. I love MAC makeup products, particularly the Clear Lip Glass.

Q. What perfume?

I recently discovered Pink Sugar by Aquolina.

Q. What style rules do you live by?

Fashion should be fun. It expresses to people who you are without saying a word. Don’t be too matchy-matchy. Layering different fabrics is a great look for fall/winter. I love to mix a bold color with a cute pattern.