One of our contributors on the Blog is the very stylish, smart and talented, Hoda Salameh! From her obvious pulse on the fashion industry, fashion knowledge and writing skills, she will be sure to add a new flavor to the Blog.
Get to know Hoda, read our interview below: The 101 on Hoda: {Hoda}: "Seeing that my name, Hoda (pronounced Hood-uh) means guidance, leading people in the right style direction is a natural fit for me. Born and raised in metro Detroit, I have always been smitten with the Mitten. I earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a specialization in fashion design from Wayne State University.
I also had the honor of studying abroad in Paris, France. I have landed positions with various local media outlets, most recently as the Associate Editor of StyleLine magazine, where I predicted trends, tracked down sources for the trend-related product, helped lead the fashion and beauty editorial team, styled models’ wardrobe for fashion shoots, coordinated product shoots, executed on their social media campaigns, attended networking events, and covered fashion week shows. I’m currently a Personal Stylist at Nordstrom in Twelve Oaks Mall. I have also launched my own website, http://www.thedamselindetroit.com, where I offer my fashion styling and writing services. I’m excited to start contributing to Notes from the Styleshack! In my spare time, you can catch me working out, dancing, reading, cooking, baking, spending time with loved ones and planning my destination wedding scheduled for July 2015!"
{SS}: In regards to your personal style, do you have a signature accessory?
{Hoda}: I know this may sound cliché but my signature accessory truly is my engagement ring. It’s more than just a symbol of the love, devotion, and commitment I share with my fiancé, Jason, it tells a special tale.
When searching for engagement ring styles that suit me, I was very impressed with the contemporary style selections, but I didn’t find one that really spoke to me. I ended up checking out Antiques and Fine Jewelry by Pamela in Rochester, and I tried on a few vintage engagement ring styles but the owner mentioned that she had a special ring coming that I might fancy.When she showed me the ring for the first time, I was enamored by the incredible amount of intricacy. The attention to detail was apparent at every angle of the art deco 1920-1930s custom mount ring. The best part is that when I tried on the antique ring, it fit me perfectly. I later found out that Jason went to Tapper’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry to purchase the diamond. Jason and I escaped to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to celebrate our four-year anniversary. He scheduled us a very special private photo session while we were there. At the end of the shoot, the photographer suggested that Jason gets on one knee to pretend like he was going to propose “just for fun”! We both started laughing and proceeded to stage the pose.
After a few minutes worth of acting out the shot, Jason busted out with the ring and popped the question! The photographer wanted to take a close-up shot of the ring, so I went to switch the ring Jason gave me when we first met to my other hand, and I accidentally dropped the ring into the ocean! Shovels in hand, many people rushed to help us search for the ring. After around 20 minutes, this woman from Vancouver, Canada found the ring! I was drenched with tears. Every time I slip on the ring, I relive the rush of emotions I experienced at that magical moment.
{SS}: A few items in your "Styleshack" (A.K.A closet) that you can't live without?
{Hoda}: My go-to casual outfit is boyfriend jeans teamed with a fitted tank and a leather jacket or blazer. I love wearing caftans and jumpsuits for effortless chic ensembles. I’m a tad obsessed with turbans.
I love crop tops paired with full skirts for a posh yet playful look.I’m also a fan of teaming feminine garments with edgy pieces, such as my “Carrie Bradshaw” tulle skirt from House of Field (Sex and The City stylist Patricia Field’s store), with my leather jacket from Zara.
{SS}: Who inspires your style? Favorite Style Icon?
{Hoda}: I’m constantly inspired by street style and by interesting individuals I meet during my travels. From unique statement pieces to functional fashions, I try to merge the aspirational with the achievable.
Some of my favorite style icons include Audrey Hepburn for her classic glamour, Talitha Getty for her ethnic elegance and Sarah Jessica Parker for her daring fashion sense.
{SS}: What are your current Styleshack FAVORITE product picks?
Birdseye Front Trouser Drape {Vincetta}
Rochelle Green Necklace {Pound Jewelry}
Olen Snake Leather Jacket {Guys N Gals} ON SALE
Mi Chaila Bonded Top {Guys N Gals} ON SALE
I adore the whole outfit here: White & Warren Plaid V Neck {Hersh's}
{SS}: Favorite Blog you love to read? {Hoda}: Lately, I’ve been all about Aimee Song of "Song of Style"
{SS}: Favorite "local Boutiques"?
{Hoda}: This is a toughie! Some of my many favorite local boutiques include Chi-Chi and the Greek, Lost & Found Vintage, Dawood, Rococo, V-Male Detroit Vintage, Art Loft, Complex and LollyElla.
{SS}: Favorite local restaurants?
{Hoda}: I’m getting hungry just thinking of all the amazing local restaurants we have here in the D. Some of my top picks include Vinsetta Garage, Mad Hatter, Deliziosa Bistro, Shiro, Hudson Café, Anita’s Kitchen and Good Girls Go To Paris.
{SS}: Currently listening to… {Hoda}: Motown jams. I recently watched the musical, and I can’t get the iconic songs, such as “ABC” by The Jackson 5, “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” by The Four Tops and “Do You Love Me” by Contours, out of my head.
{SS}: Most recent book you read?
{Hoda}: “The Prophet” by Kahil Gibran
{SS}: Must have item for winter/holiday? {Hoda}: My faux fur hat; it’s my ultimate outfit topper during the winter season.
{SS}: Words to Live by?
{Hoda}: “Confidence is your best accessory, never leave home without it.”
