Your Style: Ann Chafoulias

Ann Chafoulias: Give traditional a little twist

From an LBD (little black dress) to Batman PJs

Motto: Follow the rules, don't be a 'fashion victim'

Ann Chafoulias, traditionalist. She adores the style of former First Lady Jackie Kennedy and Vogue magazine fashion icon Babe Paley, who set standards for 20th century sophistication as early as the 1930s.

Outside of the fashion world, Chafoulias has founded two businesses and is active in civic life. "I love and support the arts," she said. "I am on the Rochester Art Center board, on the CUDE (Committee on Urban Design and Environment) board and 'Seeds of Wisdom,' an initiative to build a school in South Sudan. I love to read. More than anything, I love my family and my proudest 'achievements' are my two exceptional daughters!"

What is your signature style?

Traditional with a little twist

Does your style match or complement your personality?

The little "twist" may reflect my personality.

Do you ever go vintage shopping? And if so, do you have an all-time favorite find?

Anyone who knows me knows I was born in the 60's and knows I love the 60's era of style the best. I have not found it, but my favorite "would be" find, would be vintage Channel.

Are there particular individuals or designers from the 1960s who, in addition to "Channel," you idolize? And why?

Jackie Kennedy and Babe Paley were my style icons. Why? Because they are classic. All these years later, they are still the epitome of beauty and style.

Jackie Kennedy once said a simple yet classic dress "can take you anywhere." What is your most valuable wardrobe piece?

Hate to be so cliche, but the LBD. Dress it up or down.

What one thing should every well-dressed woman have in her wardrobe?

Without a doubt, the little black dress. It is one piece! You can travel and not have to worry about different pieces. It can go day to night. It's classic.

Is there something people would be surprised to know you have?

Fleece, one piece Batman pajamas.

Has your style changed over the years?

Not really.

Based on your love of the LBD, it may not be necessary to ask, but what is your favorite color to wear?

Black.

Is there a color you think of as not flattering for you?

I pretty much only wear black, tan and red.

Any particular bit of style advice you would like to offer?

Do not be a fashion victim.

What is the most outrageous piece of fashion advice you have ever received?

"You could wear anything" … that is not true. All us woman have our own unique challenges to work around.

Is there one style rule you think all women should break.

I actually like style rules. For example, a woman of a certain age should dress her age, etc

What are a few items one can incorporate to freshen their look?

Stick with classic pieces and add new stylish shoes and a new accessory.

On the home front, how would you describe your décor?

Updated traditional, tone on tone, grey is the new beige — greige!

Does your style carry over into your professional endeavors?

I have two businesses. One reflects my personal style, the other reflects my personality and both reflect my lifestyle.

You mention you have two businesses, would you elaborate a little?

Sure. One is called Sapphire Concierge. It is a concierge service much like a concierge in a hotel, yet away from a hotel. In fact, many tasks involve personal shopping and styling for clients. My personal style fits that particular company. I like wearing dresses a lot because they are one piece.

The other business is called Essential Cold Pressed Juice. It is a fresh-pressed juice shop. We needed more freshness in Rochester! You feel great after adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet. In a way, you could consider this part of my style because having a healthy lifestyle helps you look and feel better. When I am working at my shop, I am wearing an apron!

Almost finally, do you have a pet? And, if so, does your pet reflect your style?

My (new) business is my new pet. I love it, nurture it and want to share it.

And, any parting comments?

If you have daughters, try to dress in such a way that doesn't embarrass them. Don't try to dress like them.

Also, the woman who invented Spanx deserves to be the billionaire she is!

Anne Murphy is a Rochester freelance writer who has been a professional journalist for more than 30 years.