1. Who is Laura Czapski?
Hi, my name is Laura Czapski with Houston House of Colour. I am a style and color consultant based in Houston, Texas. I guide my clients to get out of their comfort zone and achieve confidence and self-empowerment by expressing themselves through color and style. House of Colour has been such a gift to me that I can't wait to share the profound experience of learning your best colors and style with others.
2. How do you define fashion/style?
Fashion is here and now; it is in all the stores, what's popular or "in". Style is individual - a glimpse into your personality, your values, and the way you want to express yourself to the world. Style is ever-changing and evolving with an individual's life experiences. My personal style tells a story to those around me. It sends a message to the world about who I am on the inside: unique, fun, quirky, polished, and approachable.
3. What influences your style?
Art! Wallpaper! Flowers in the park! Local thrift shops! I am always exploring for style inspiration.
4. How has your style evolved?
In the past, I would play it safe. I was drawn to the sale rack (and black) because it was easy and readily available. My husband used to joke and say, “Just because it is on sale doesn’t mean you need it,” but sale equaled victory in my eyes! I looked twice at funky pieces in the stores but wouldn’t buy them because they were outside of my typical t-shirt and khaki shorts uniform. I envied those who were confident and who didn’t feel pressure to conform to expectations. I knew it was time to reinvent myself and my style after my House of Colour Style Consultation. I realized that to feel my best, I needed what I wore and what people saw to match my inner self: an artist who works in style. Style is how I express my creativity. I rarely wear the same outfit combination twice. I wear what feels good at the moment. House of Colour enabled me to step into this freedom to express who I wanted to be. They gave me the language and tools to feel confident in my own skin by unearthing and unveiling what was already there.
5. What does your dream wardrobe consist of?
In my dream wardrobe (and I’m almost there!), everything mixes and matches harmoniously. I’m all about timeless pieces that fit my personality/style, with a sprinkle of trendy items, vintage handbags, and a drawer full of oversized glasses! I am totally into the dress with sneakers trend, I hope it stays. It focuses on cute on top, and comfort on the bottom, and sneaks are a great way to add a pop of color to any outfit. I’m also a big fan of swimwear with ruching – it accentuates curves, adds interest, and forgives in places where we may be a little self-conscious.
6. If you were to give fashion advice to your younger self what would it be?
If you love it, wear it! Your style doesn’t have to make sense to others – if it makes you feel good mentally and physically, it’s a win! Stand tall and rock the headscarf.
Hundreds of women walk through my door, all with different – and beautiful – bodies. We are all unique, and yet body image is something ALL OF US struggle with at some point. But the body is a gift. It enables us to become moms, run marathons, and take long walks with our besties on the beach! House of Colour celebrates and promotes body positivity in all we do. When you value yourself on the inside and find worth in your body for what it does, you can fall in love with your outside as well.
8. What do you love about jewelry and what is your absolute favorite?
Jewelry can tell a story about your past, present, or future. It can remind us of a joyful moment, a triumph, a trial, or that the best is yet to come. (Brides, I see you! xo) With just one glance, jewelry can change our mood. I love that jewelry can be costume or fine, and the perfect piece of jewelry in your collection does not have to be the most expensive. My most treasured piece is a Scorpio medallion from my Grandma Ruby. We shared a love of fashion, color, and makeup – and we are both Scorpios, too!
9. How do you incorporate accessories and jewelry into your daily looks?
I adore anything vintage: bag, scarf, blouse, necklace, or funky bracelets…yes, please! Accessories always add interest and variety to my look, which is essential since I never want to look boring!
10. What are your non-negotiables that you must wear and what you will never wear?
Lipstick is an accessory and I never leave home without it! It gives me confidence, and color and finishes my look. Non-negotiables include my watch (a gift from my husband), a vintage ring my boys gave me for Mother’s Day, and my grandmother’s wedding bands, to name a few. My arm is full of bracelets combined with a statement necklace, oversized glasses, and a headscarf. Iris Apfel says it best, “more is more and less is bore”— I can never have enough accessories on! I avoid wearing something just because everyone else is. I wear what feels like me!
11. Tell us why you choose fashion and style?
I choose fashion and style to give myself (and clients) a boost of confidence! I am a cheerleader for individuality and expressing one's authenticity. One you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you are happier, more productive, and motivated! I want to a that for myself and for my clients!
12. Favorite fashion quote
“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak” – Rachel Zoe
Laura, that was so colorful and energetic- thank you! Keep treating your body right and decorate however you want. As stated above, your body is a gift, and style is a way to express creativity!
XoXo
Golden Stories