Name: Abby Lavin
Occupation: Account Manager
Nationality: American

Abby effortlessly pairs comfort with style–a signature look for this energetic, sassy and adorable girl who always spruces up simple outfits with rare accessories. Her wardrobe "canvas" includes a black jersey dress and bright blue leggings ("I have three pairs in different colors!") by basics depot American Apparel. For us in Shanghai, Email Fashion Plaza's array of shops can offer many similar pieces. Her spunky personality shines through as a patron of shops called Annie Creamcheese and Commander Salamander, where she discovered the chunky belt and colorful tote–but sorry, these are finds from her hometown of Washington, DC. Abby's turquoise "tri-diamond" necklace comes courtesy of her thoughtful boyfriend, and her enormous silver ring is a souvenir from her stay in Cairo. Back here in Shanghai, "I'm a huge fan of the shops in metro stations, from the South Railway Station to the Xujiahui metro shops," Abby says, showing off her prized black pumps, a surprise mid-commute find. This self-confessed homebody may be happiest making omelets at home, but also likes to visit Bling, Kiitos and The Glamour Bar for dancing and delicious cocktails, and her style resonates her versatility. "Style means doing whatever you damn well feel like," she says. "I would never tell someone, 'dress for comfort,' or even, 'just be yourself,' because fashion [is about] getting to try on different personas." Multiple personas aside, one maxim rings true when it comes to shopping: "If you're not crazy about something, then don't buy it," Abby advises. "Conversely, if you see something that makes you do a little jig, then you absolutely must buy it. Money is no object–it evens out nicely.

Fashionista by Emily Chu
Photographer: Mao Dou
Studio: Ringier Studio