SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW @rayemocioiu

Two words that best describe you.

What a hard question! I had to phone a friend for this one. Overall, I would describe myself as creative and easygoing.
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@rayemocioiu
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Coffee or Tea?

Coffee, with a splash of oat milk and cinnamon! But I do love tea, especially on days when I want to chill out. Green tea is my favorite.

What is your favorite accessory and why?

Gold hoop earrings! I have them in multiple sizes, from tiny to statement-sized. I feel like they really elevate any outfit. I’ve been wearing them throughout my quarantine, paired with sweats, of course, and I just feel more put together.

What are 5 pieces every girl should have in her closet?

First and foremost, a black boot, preferably with a pointed-toe and a slight heel. Such a classic, elevating piece! Next, a pair of black jeans and a pair of blue jeans. I prefer to have my black jeans fitted and my blue jeans on the relaxed side, but that’s all preference. A cardigan is so essential – not even because they’re trending right now, just because they’re effortlessly chic and easy to throw on. Last but certainly not least, a versatile jacket! I’m partial to denim over leather, but that’s also up to preference. Currently, my black puffer jacket is on repeat.

Where do you find inspiration?

Anywhere and everywhere. TV shows, movies, books, the internet, people I pass on the street. I think you can find inspiration anywhere.

Quote you live by?

“You do not just wake up and become the butterfly – growth is a process” – Rupi Kaur (from The Sun and Her Flowers)
It’s a prettier way of saying that you have to be a beginner first, and that’s nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.

Who are some of your favorite Instagram influencers?

I have so many! Christie Tyler of NYC Bambi, Cass Dimicco, Emma Leger, Nitsan Raiter… the list could really go on and on…

Who and or what inspires your personal style?

I try to think about what my dream version of myself is, and then I lean into that thought. What is she wearing? What does a day in her life look like? It’s all about manifesting who you want to be. That inspiration comes from everything around me, from the books I read, to the photos I like on Instagram. Definitely the high-fashion/mood board side of Twitter, too – they’re all about portraying a feeling or aesthetic within a few, key images.

How would you describe your personal style?

Relaxed and minimal with a bit of edge. Sometimes I veer more to the feminine side, other times I go full-punk, it really depends on how I’m feeling!

What are some of your favorite fashion trends?

Right now, I’ve been loving pastel cardigans, romantic corsets/bustiers, and straight-leg jeans. My favourite accessory trends at the moment are layered gold chains, tube socks, and claw clips (basically what I’ve been wearing lately!).
I think the “less is more” approach is very in right now, and I’m all for it. I love the look of a simple outfit with a few key accessories – it’s very model-off-duty.

What was the best style advice you’ve ever received?

It sounds simple, but just to wear what makes you happy! In my early teens, I definitely spent way too much of my energy trying to fit in, wearing what I saw other people wearing. It was frustrating, and I never felt totally confident or comfortable. In 10th grade, I just started wearing the clothes that I felt like wearing – which back then was very grunge-inspired – and it made all the difference in the world. I realized that people either thought it was cool or didn’t care at all. I’m sure there were people who maybe had some things to say, but I never heard it and didn’t care anyway. My style has definitely changed since then, but the sentiment remains the same; I’m always wearing what makes me happy and inspired.
I guess it all comes back to being true to yourself – that’s the only way people will get to see the real you!
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