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Welcome to our very first installment of Working It, a series started by our sister site Racked National that we love so much, we're bringing it to LA. This is where Racked takes street style to the next level—the office. The litmus test of the true style-savvy is how she (or he) rocks a look on any old day to work. Forget the pedestrian khakis and button downs—these fashionable professionals take the office dress code to a whole other dimension. Quick, somebody call HR!
Photos by Jesse Fiorino.
Today we take you to the Downtown LA headquarters of Nasty Gal to see what the masterminds behind this cult-favorite e-shop wear when they're not partying like rock stars. Founded in 2006 as an eBay store selling curated vintage, Nasty Gal has quickly grown into a globally-recognized online style source for new and vintage clothing, footwear and accessories. Here's how the NG team works it when they're working.
Sophia Amoruso, Founder and CEO: "I love super worn-in pieces that tell a story. As you could guess, my closet is packed with vintage, but I really try to mix old and new, low and high so I never leave the house feeling like I'm wearing something obvious."
Style advice: "Wear what makes you feel good. If you feel uncomfortable in something, it's much more painful to look at than if you own your look—regardless of how crazy it is!"
LA hidden treasure: "The Relaken Spa inside Little Tokyo's Miyako Hotel (328 E 1st St). The masseuses have been there for decades and the spa is always empty, so you know you won't encounter a naked lady doing downward dog in the sauna."
Sophia is wearing a Shakuhachi dress, a Nasty Gal sweater, Acne boots and vintage accessories.
Lisa Williams, Buyer for Dresses and Outerwear: "I'm usually really laid-back and feminine, but with a modern edge. I can't really commit to one look. My style is always evolving and I'm constantly inspired by new pieces I buy for Nasty Gal."
Style advice: "Buy statement pieces outside of your comfort zone. This can help update your look without compromising your style."
LA hidden treasure: "I love House of Pies (1869 N Vermont Ave). They have the most amazing blueberry pie!"
Lisa is wear a vintage Levi's denim shirt, a Nasty Gal x MINKPINK dress and Walgreens socks.
Christina Ferrucci, Buying Director: "I'm all about comfort and fun. Since I run around all day, I like to wear transitional pieces that allow me to move freely. I'm not into really super trendy pieces. Comfort is key!"
Style advice: "Dress for yourself. Also, invest in a good oversized black blazer because it can make anything look instantly chic."
LA hidden treasure: "Lucy's El Adobe Cafe (5536 Melrose Ave). This is the spot for mexican food. I especially love their barbecue tacos."
Christina is wearing a Marc by Marc Jacobs denim jacket, a Nasty Gal shirt, vintage Levi's cutoffs from Bitching & Junkfood, Nasty Gal shoes, Nasty Gal jewelry and Walgreens socks.
Sarah Lee, Graphic Designer: "I'm into a relaxed, minimal look with punk influences and a touch of masculinity. "
Style advice: "Splurge on shoes and jackets because they can dress up anything. With those key pieces, everything else can be basic and inexpensive."
LA hidden treasure: "El Taurino Restaurant (1104 S. Hoover St). They seriously have the best mexican food and are busy all hours of the day. I'm vegetarian, so I love their bean, rice and cheese burrito. Their hot sauce is amazing!"
Sarah is wearing a vintage army jacket, a Nasty Gal x MINKPINK dress and Alexander Wang shoes.
Houman Farahmand, Sample Coordinator: "I'm modest, for the most part. If I have an extravagant top, I wear a simple bottom. I like nice, clean lines. Simplicity is key. The early '80s and mid '60s are major influences."
Style advice: "Know why you're wearing what you're wearing. Buy something because you really, really love it—not because someone told you to."
LA hidden treasure: "The Old Fashioned at Gordon Ramsay at the London (1020 N San Vicente Blvd). I've never had one as good."
Houman is wearing a Raf Simons x Fred Perry shirt, Acne pants, Jil Sander shoes, a Givenchy cuff and a vintage belt.
Stacey Nishimoto, Stylist and Makeup Artist "My look is very minimalist, but decadent. I'm influenced by '70s music, '90s style, Twin Peaks—I'm all over the place!"
Style advice: "Always take one thing off before you leave the house. Invest in a solid pair of shoes, a nice bag and a good coat."
LA hidden treasure: "I adore Scout in Hollywood (1646 N Cherokee Ave). The designer/owner Joey Grana has an incredibly beautiful eye. Everything in that store is just gorgeous."
Stacey is wearing a Rodebjer dress from Opening Ceremony, a vintage motorcycle jacket, a Tiffany & Co cuff and vintage boots.
· Nasty Gal [Official Site]
· Nasty Gal Brings Coachella to Hollywood's Roosevelt Hotel [Racked]
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