HER SMART GEEK-CHIC STYLE Story and Photo by Miranda Popp
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alking around the office clad in a lab coat and safety glasses are requirements, but Jennifer Chu is no ordinary chemist. She stands out not only in the office with her style, but anywhere she goes in what she defines as “geek-chic” fashion. Jennifer never wears denim because “it’s just not me,” and she often wears a statement pair of eyeglasses with her work outfits, her go-to eyeglass brands being Chanel, Burberry, Versace, and Prada. As a chemist who deals in precious oils and fragrances every day, she says “Everybody needs their signature scent!” For her, it’s Chance by Chanel, a perfume she’s been wearing since she was 20 years old.
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Jennifer Chu is the director of quality control and laboratory operations at an aromatic oil trading company. Jennifer says that she “needs a ‘pop’ in every outfit,” and that can be created simply with a vibrant color or a print/pattern juxtaposed with a neutral.
Dressing to Connect By Keri Foy Photo by Sunni Wigginton
At a little over 5-foot tall, Lisa Nalley’s height has a huge impact on her style. From heels to hemming, this petite mom of two knows how to add a couple inches. And while appearing taller may be important, what’s more important to her is that she looks friendly and helpful. As the chief of staff for Rescare, a health and human services provider, Lisa identifies herself as a changemaker. Reporting to the CEO, Lisa manages floor center operations and oversees her team’s project management and strategic initiatives. A big part of her job lies in constant interaction with employees. “I need to hear from people and people need to share with me,” Lisa says. “As long as I portray that I’m receptive, people will come to me, and I can maneuver an organization to keep the business running.” She views her style as a way to bond, especially with other females, instead of a power move. “People tell me I’m approachable,” Lisa says. “I relate to people on clothes. Clothes are so much of who women are and how they show individualism. It’s a good connection piece.”
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Jan 2018 / TodaysWomanNow.com
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SEARCH: Lisa Nalley
She likes to look professional with an element of fun — from polka dot patterns or a ruffle to unique buttons or belts — and she sums up her style as easy. Dresses from Banana Republic, Amazon Fashion, the outlet malls, or the sales racks at Dillard’s and Macy's are the effortless pieces to which Lisa gravitates.