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Sidewalk Style: Equal Access

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We stop a PhD student who’s smart about the way she dresses.

By Rachel Cothran   Published Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Lesley-Anne Pittard, 29
PhD student, education-policy studies, University of Virginia

What she’s wearing:
A skirt she bought in high school, a sweater from Ann Taylor, a department-store belt, and cowboy-style boots from either T.J. Maxx or Marshalls.

What’s your style philosophy?
“My work is all about equal access, equal opportunity, and inclusion, and I relate that to my wardrobe. If you believe in those things, it flows into your language, your attitude, and your appearance. I’ll be honest—I don’t really shop that much. I like nice things, but I try to consider myself a role model with what I wear.”

How would you describe your look?
“Traditional eclectic. I can get away with more because I’m tall.”

What do you think about stylish women in powerful roles in Washington, such as Michelle Obama?
“Now that we have a First Lady of color, I feel more affirmed in my look. It’s a fact that people see what you have on before they see you, and she has managed to be strong but have flair and personality. It makes me feel like I, too, can be at the table.”

Comments

Great outfit. You look comfortable,fashionable and confident.

Posted by: YSTOKES, Oct 18, 2009 12:51:22 PM

I appreciate the confidence in your style and personality. It’s very professional looking in a I-demand-respect kind of way, yet youthful.

Posted by: mzjones, Oct 17, 2009 06:10:30 PM

Top notch all the way Lesley-Anne! Confident, classy & charismatic -- you’ve got the trifecta!

Posted by: DCB, Oct 17, 2009 02:37:35 PM

This young lady has the total package........Aspiring, Brilliant, Creative, Dapper, Elegant........

My vote, A+++

Posted by: IHS, Oct 16, 2009 04:54:30 PM

you are gorgeous and very chic!

Posted by: tt, Oct 16, 2009 12:07:46 PM

Congratulations on being featured. I absolutely love your style. Even if I did not know you, I would still love your style. You are definitely rockin. I am so proud of you. You are beautiful inside and out. Keep doing what you are doing. It is working!!

Posted by: Pat Hill, Oct 16, 2009 11:58:56 AM

It great to be comfortable in your "own skin". You define your style not the style define you. Very professional and stylish.

Posted by: Maxxie Mc, Oct 16, 2009 11:00:28 AM

She looks the epitome of the self-assured young lady. She looks great.She definately not concered about being very tall.

Posted by: Elayne, Oct 16, 2009 09:38:02 AM

Glad to support an inteligent, smart looking young woman . I am so tired of everyone "rapping." Kudos to Rachel

Posted by: Evelyn T Gray, Oct 16, 2009 09:06:39 AM

Absolutely Fabulous!! She looks great and is a great role model for young women.

Posted by: Tamika, Oct 16, 2009 06:13:40 AM

The epitome of a successful, smart, and beautiful woman. I love it!

Posted by: Key, Oct 15, 2009 10:46:33 PM

love it! and love your energy :)

Posted by: daisy, Oct 15, 2009 10:37:45 PM

Pleased with the dress

Posted by: Helen, Oct 15, 2009 09:29:11 PM

Fabulous! I love her style.

Posted by: wannabe, Oct 15, 2009 06:20:52 PM

Gorgeous!! Love her style!

Posted by: Lisa, Oct 15, 2009 12:50:25 PM

I really appreciate having the opportunity to be featured as it was an awesome opportunity! I don’t expect everyone to like my style but I do think that having your own flair is a sign of healthy self-esteem and confidence which my parents, family and friends have supported. Happy weekend Washington!

Posted by: Lesley-Anne Pittard, Oct 15, 2009 11:47:39 AM

that the is the most hideous thing i’ve ever seen. seriously "style" blog, pick it up a notch.

you show one more piece of trash from tj maxx or marshalls and i think i may puke all over your desk.

goodday, i said goodday!

Posted by: pasqual, Oct 13, 2009 09:21:52 AM

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