Closets & Cocktails with everyday to runway

For this installment of Closets & Cocktails, A and I are thrilled to have Lauren from everyday to runway. We love her savvy style and adorable answers! We only hope her mom isn't reading this! (Or maybe is, depending on your point of view... imagine Closets & Cocktails facilitating Lauren getting her dream hand-me-down! That'd be pretty marvy... ) One thing I will say is that I'm with you, Lauren; I believe in the life-changing power of a good latte! So, without further adieu, a few insights into Lauren's fashion philosophies and closet confessions...

Lauren, from everyday to runway, in her closet with her favorite cocktail

(p.s. can we talk about her marvy blue nails?!)

What is your style motto? Keep it classic. Fresh, feminine, but balanced.

If you could change one thing about your closet, what would it be? I'd like it to be bigger! Adequate closet space is a rarity in the city , so I supplement space by storing seasonal items, and having a bureau, and an armoire too!

Who's style, past or present, do you most admire? Truly, I most admire my mom's style. She started working in retail in high school for money to buy her own sewing machine and fabric. She made all her own clothes, even a gorgeous emerald green prom dress. She has a classic, tailored style that mixes high, low and vintage... I have my eye on a few pieces of hers to permanently "borrow".

What is your most treasured possession in your closet? My grandmother's promise ring from my grandfather. A gorgeous gold ring with an opal (our shared birthstone) surrounded by rubies. I save it for special occasions.

What is your greatest shopping regret? Considering how girlie and feminine I am now, it might be shocking to hear I was definitely a tomboy in elementary school. I loved tee shirts, cut off shorts and wore a lot of green! I regret asking to dress myself from grades 4-6 rather than having my mom dress me!

What do you consider your greatest score? This beautiful leather purse from Florence that I bought when studying abroad there. I made friends with an old leather maker who was the fifth generation shop owner. He made little leather card cases imprinted with initials that I gave to my family members. I love those heartfelt, handmade pieces that will last forever.

What words or phrases do you most overuse? AMAZING. I say everything is "amazing" or "life changing". Like Proenza's [Schouler] S/S '10 collection was totally life changing. Sometimes even my latte is life changing. It's pretty ridiculous, ha-ha.

What is your greatest extravagance? Skin care and relaxation. There is no money I won't spend for a full beauty routine. (I swear by Mario Badescu) and a massage. I tend to lose, rip, or spill things so I don't splurge on clothes or accessories too much but I am eyeing, wishing and praying for my mother's 2.55 Chanel as a hand me down!

BONUS QUESTION: What is your favorite cocktail? This summer I have been all about Rosé. This crisp, cold flavor keeps me cool in this steamy weather we've been having in NY. Plus I love the color!

Thanks so much Lauren! To keep up with Lauren, be sure to check out everyday to runway!

Love, P