Annette Tang, Social Media & Website Director
Even though I work from home, I don’t like to treat it like I am. I still always get up, shower, do my makeup and get dressed.
I’m Annette from The Versastyle. I’ve been blogging/instagramming for awhile and my followers know me for my monochrome vibes.
Annette in Vegan leather belted overshirt jacket
WORK & TALENT
What did you study in school and how did you start your career in fashion?
I actually studied Criminology, Psychology and Social Behavior at university. I originally planned on going to law school or working in law but at the end of the day I think fashion is my second nature. Since my mom and aunt were both designers, I grew up watching fashions shows and reading Vogue magazines.
To pursue the industry, I got a job at a footwear company as a doing sales and product analysis which allowed me to work closely with both sales and product development. Over time, I eventually learned both sides of the business and took over designing. I oversaw the Product Development department and a team of designers.
After designing, I spent a little time as a fashion editor for an online magazine.
What is your main job now?
Currently I manage websites and social media for various brands. It’s fun because I get to do a variety of things I love. There’s the creative part of course with photography but also being able to work on analyzing sales and building a website is something I find really satisfying.
Annette in Vegan leather belted overshirt jacket
How did you come up with the name "Versastyle"?
It actually a play on the word “versatile.” I’ve always been about wearing outfits from day to night or wearing a jacket or shirt 20 different ways. In college, I would have a daytime look and then add some jewelry and change my shoes and have a whole new outfit so my friend would joke that’s “versastyle.”
What is your main objective behind your Instagram account & blog?
It’s always been a creative outlet for outfits and photography for me. I love getting dressed and sharing my favorite looks and pieces I’m currently loving. The photography part is something I get obsessed about. I actually enjoy being behind the camera more and can spend an annoying amount of time shooting something as simple as a donut. I just find it oddly satisfying.
How did you start developing your presence in social media?
I started several years ago after I had a blog. Instagram was just getting big and it just made sense. I made it a point to post everyday, build a community and just be consistent. And as I kept on posting, the monochromatic theme just organically happened.
FASHION & LIFESTYLE
How would you describe your personal style?
It’s an off-duty/on-duty style. It’s a mix of causal pieces like tees and hoodies styled with blazers or jackets. I love mixing high and low pieces too. At the end of the day, I just always like to be put-together.
Annette in Vegan leather belted overshirt jacket
Love your monochromatic theme! How do you feel about wearing color?
(Laugh out loud) I look ridiculous in color. I think I honestly felt like that since a kid. I remember in kindergarten my mom made me wear a sweatshirt and pant set that was dark red/pink with teal polka dots. I cried all day.
I’ve gone through moments of wearing certain colors for a pop but at the end of it, I always got over color quick and would sell them or gave them away so it just like a waste of money. I much prefer black, white, grey – camel/tan when I am in the mood.
You mentioned you work from home a lot - what do you wear?
Even though I work from home, I don’t like to treat it like I am. I still always get up, shower, do my makeup and get dressed. I do love to try out outfits that I have in mind and there’s been times I have changed multiple time a day. My go-to currently though is faux leather leggings and oversize tee.
Do you follow trends at all?
I do but I don’t let them dictate everything I wear. I am also careful to pick trends that have some longevity and also actually look good on me, fits with my style.
Where are some of your favorite places to shop?
I love the usual Zara, H&M, Nordstrom and high street spots but I also love boutiques with a cool selection like The Dallant. It’s really about finding perfect pieces for me with a cool fit – which up until more recently was hard to find so I used to also shop in the mens department a lot.
What do you think about when you make purchases?
I always think about how often would I wear an item and how many ways can I style it up. If I can’t wear it in 20 ways, I think twice about buying it.
What is your go to outfit?
Jeans or faux leather leggings with tank top and black blazer. Shoe choice – heels, boots or sneakers - is dependent on my mood and vibe.
What is one fashion item that you've worn the most often?
Hands down, blazers. I love them with jeans, shorts, skirts, dresses, leggings, you name it. They just complete an outfit and always make you look put-together, confident, like you know what you are doing.
-
For more on Annette-