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Tinesha “Rockstar” Matthews has a vibrant personality that lights up any room.
The 38-year-old hair stylist and entrepreneur enjoys living life and doesn’t mind taking risks, especially when it comes to fashion (she recently sported neon pink hair). Her motto in life: “Try, and if it doesn’t work at least you’ve tried.”
Here’s what she says are her style essentials:
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Q. How would you describe your style?
My style is bold, unique or authentic. I don’t think style is something you have; I think it’s who you are. As long as I can remember, my fashion sense has been outside the box. My mother always gave me freedom with my clothing, and my goal was to always be different from the crowd.
Q. Are you into specific fashion designers?
My favorite handbag designer is Gucci. It’s classic, functional and it works with everything. I don’t have a favorite clothing designer, but I am partial to Ralph Lauren. I like how he stays true to the classics but manages to infuse what’s current into his brand. There’s something about a Ralph Lauren ad that just does it for me.
Q. Where do you shop?
I shop everywhere. My style is so eclectic there’s no limit to where I’ll find what I like. From Neiman Marcus to Target to thrift stores, if it looks good on me, I’ll buy it.
Q. Are you a shoe fanatic? How many pairs do you own?
I wouldn’t consider myself a shoe fanatic but I love, love, love cowboy boots. It’s been a fetish since I was a child. There’s just something invigorating about cowboy boots, even with a evening gown and even in the summer with a short skirt. Maybe it’s the rocker chick in me. I probably have 30 pairs of shoes.
Q. What item in your wardrobe can’t you live without?
There’s not a particular item in my wardrobe I can’t live without, but I really like dresses and skirts. I love how feminine they make me feel. It’s rare that you will catch me wearing pants.
Q. What’s your favorite accessory?
My favorite accessory, hands down, are my sunglasses. I have a pretty extensive collection. I can’t live without them because my eyes are sensitive to the sun. Not to mention, they complete any outfit. I always keep a spare in the glove compartment.
Q. What’s your latest splurge?
My latest splurge is the newest addition to my collection… square framed Burberry sunglasses. They have all the others on hold right now. My brother picked them out for me.
Q. What style would you not be caught wearing?
There’s no style I wouldn’t wear right now. I would figure out a way to put my trademark on it. That sounds like a good challenge!
Q. What beauty products do you use?
St. Ives bodywash (it’s inexpensive and I love it) baby oil right out of the shower is a must, followed by Philosophy body butter and Exuviance skin care products for my face.
Q. What’s your favorite perfume?
Alien by Thierry Mugler and Unconditional Love by Philosophy. Sometimes I wear them together because Unconditional Love by an Alien has to be out of this world.
Q. Name two items you think every stylish woman should own?
I think every stylish woman should own a scarf and a pair of sunglasses. Those two things, coupled with the right attitude, could make even the worst outfit look good.
Q. If you had your own fashion line, what kind of clothes would you create?
If I had my own clothing line it would be influenced completely by styles from 1920 through 1940. During that era, women were so glamorous, and dresses and skirts were rampant. I would figure out a way to add a rocker edge to the styles as well. And, even though I don’t wear pants that often, I would design the ultimate jean and leather pant for my body type. I have a short crotch and big thighs, so it’s almost difficult for me to find the right fit jean for me.
