About Bridget

Read the Article from the Decatur Daily TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2006

DAILY Photo by Emily Saunders "Clothes are more of a canvas for my accessories," says jewelry designer Bridget Troup. Style File Fashionable folks in the Valley Click on image for larger view.

Name: Bridget Troup

Age: 37

Hometown: Decatur

Family: Married to Frank Troup.  They have a 5-year-old daughter, Fleming.

Occupation:  Troup is a jewelry designer.  She works primarily with semi-precious stones, gold and sterling silver, and recently started her own company, "Bridget Troup Designs."

How would you describe your style?  "Vintage, eccentric and sexy at the same time.  I'll mix clothes from upscale boutiques with thrift store pieces.  I like to find things no one else has."

Who or what inspires your style?  "My style comes from looking at a lot of fashion magazines and recreating the looks I think will look good on me.

"Also, I didn't have much money when I was younger so I had to get creative and develop my own style.  I started shopping at thrift stores and also had things made.  Antique stores help me tap into my creative side, too."

What are your secrets to being stylish every day?  "I try to choose pieces that accentuate my best features.  I've also learned that a good haircut and clear skin make me feel good and stylish no matter what I'm wearing, even if it's my husband's boxer shorts."

What fall items or trends are you most excited about?  "Belts.  I haven't worn or wanted to wear one in years and now I do.  I also like handbags that have pins and old jewelry added to them."

Describe you foolproof outfit: "Jeans and a cute shirt.  But accessories are the big thing for me.  All I need is a good bag, good shoes and good sunglasses.  Clothes are more of a canvas for my accessories."

What one wardrobe component could you not live without?  "The stud earrings I wear all the time.  I don't even know what stone they are.  It's kind of an iridescent color, but they go with everything."

What advice would you give someone on finding their own personal style?  "The biggest mistake people make is wearing something that doesn't look good on their body type or something that isn't age-appropriate.  Everyone can have sex appeal, they just need to wear what looks good on them.

"Also, don't spend a lot of money on something unless you know you can still wear it 10 years from now."

— Kate Klepper