I’m a senior occupational therapist working in psychiatry and criminal justice. I also speak at events about mental health, maintaining wellbeing and neurodiversity in the workplace which is super important to me. Last, but not least, I run SASA, a career resource platform for millennials in various career fields.
2. How do you define fashion and or style?
I like to dress according to my mood. Sometimes, I’m high glam, casual, or smart if I’m going for more corporate attire. I tend to go for versatility because I get inspired all the time. That’s what I love about fashion, it’s evolving and once in a while, something gets brought back from the past.
3. What influences your style? ie travel, work, movies, magazines, social media trends, celebrities, color, etc.
Currently, I would say social media trends and TV shows, because that’s all you see now! I would love to incorporate more 90’s/early 2000s styles back into my outfits again. There are also loads of influencers, such as Melissa’s Wardrobe, who absolutely kills it with all her outfits.
4. How has your style evolved?
I was definitely more creative and carefree when I was younger. Some of my fonder memories were during the sixth form when my friends and I would rock up to school in all these bright colours and patterns, whilst trying to adhere to the uniform policy – we still got in trouble anyway!
5. What does your dream wardrobe consist of?
Firstly, neutrals, because you can never go wrong with a basic fit for the days where you just can’t be bothered or need to pop out quick. I’d also stock up on some timeless pieces because I do want to try and reduce my fast fashion intake. Also, lots and lots of bags too!
6. If you were to give fashion advice to your younger self what would it be?
Just go for it, people may laugh or look at you weird but that’s the beauty of fashion, it’s a freedom of expression.
7. How important is it to be body positive and to appreciate the skin that you're in
For many decades, certain body types and sizes have been considered most acceptable by society. Body positivity encourages a rejection of ideas that bodies must fit a certain mold and encourages people to accept and celebrate their body as it is. It’s taken a while for me to be comfortable in my skin, and I give credit to choosing to consciously love each part of me every day.
8. What do you love about jewelry? What is your absolute favorite, is it earrings, necklaces, etc.
Can I just say I love them all? I’m really into dainty jewelry at the moment such as Saint Kojo because it’s not too overpowering and compliments you in the way it should.
9. How do you incorporate accessories and jewelry into your daily looks?
I elevate my outfits by incorporating smaller pieces into my looks. For instance, if I’m wearing a bold necklace, then go for more subtle rings and earrings. The key is to work out what the focal point is and make sure other accessories and clothing don't detract from it.
10. What are your non-negotiables... What must you have/wear/do? and what are your, “I’m never ever doing or wearing that”?
I don’t actually have non-negotiables. But I’m not a big fan of colored tights, I’d have to see it on Beyonce or Rihanna first to even consider wearing that!
11. Tell us why you choose fashion and style. So what we mean by that is, we don’t have to dress up, we don’t have to adorn ourselves with jewels and embellish with accessories, but we do, we choose to… why do you?
I believe it’s a freedom of expression to re-create part of your identity over and over again. I choose fashion and style to express self-love and open myself to new experiences.
12. What’s your favorite fashion/style quote or mantra?
Fashion is like eating, so you shouldn't stick to the same menu.
13. How and where can people connect with you?
IG: @jenokolo
Website: www.wearesasa.com
Social media links
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jenokolo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-okolo-870088b1/?originalSubdomain=uk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenokolo/?hl=en
Fabulously said Jenny- fashion is a freedom of expression. So go ahead and pick your favorite pieces, whether they be quiet and dainty, or loud and bold!
XoXo
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