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Who: Lenny Forté, fashion stylist at Annie Creamcheese in Georgetown and a junior at Howard University studying advertising.
He’s also the face behind outchic.blogspot.com.
What he’s wearing:
The hat, sweater, and vintage Valentino shades are all from Annie Creamcheese. The jeans are French Connection, and the shoes are Floresheim. The necklace and bracelets are from H&M.
How would you describe your style?
“I consider my style to be a concoction of luxe-trash-chicness. I love the unpretentious/pretentious mix. I like the overall look to be polished. My motto is to not take fashion seriously because fashion isn’t really relevant. Style is what illuminates from the inside, so be an original by just being yourself. Break all the rules!”
Favorite labels or designers?
“I wear what I like with no regard for the name, just the structure and quality of the piece. From Goodwill to Barneys, I don’t care about labels—just give me quality. I’d rather cut all the labels out of my clothing and just let them label-whore themselves! I do admire the gall and innovative eye of Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga, and the Lanvin guys’ concepts.
What do you have your eye on for spring?
“For the spring, I want a crapload of luxurious leather-soled slippers with absurd designs on the foot, classic sheer button-ups and sweaters, tropical scarves, shorts above the knee, D&G platinum gladiator sandals, black kneehigh stockings for the slippers, BAGS BAGS BAGS (preferably an orange BIRK), unisex leggings, and a killer pair of versatile vintage shades!”
Any advice for vintage shoppers or those not sure how to pull it off?
“My advice is to let the generic store go. If you truly want classic lifetime pieces, go for vintage. Make sure you try everything on and check extensively for stains. Spend time vintage shopping. It’s not a walk-in-and-grab deal; it’s a discovery of impeccable pieces. Remember that trends are cyclical, so why waste extra money in mass-produced department stores getting the imitation of the eras when you can have the authentic piece by shopping vintage? Look at the Salvation Army, Goodwill, Annie Creamcheese of course, yard sales, and hand-me-downs. I have my eye on everything at Annie Creamcheese. It’s quite absurd. I can’t explain this place because it’s truly an experience and we always have amazing, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Rachel says:
I adore the thrill of the hunt when it comes to vintage. I think a lot of people imagine vintage shops as musty places filled with long, loud polyester dresses. But Lenny’s sweater is totally wearable and even looks like something he could have scored just down the street at the new Tommy Hilfiger store. He got something that no one else will have for a fraction of the cost of what you’d pay in a retail store.
Looking for vintage? Check out our picks for local consignment shops. What do you think of Lenny's look? Leave your opinion in the comments, and discuss his style!
