Then there is the actual fashion. A colorful array of shoes, tops, slacks and designer handbags poke from the closet Wideman enhanced with a pantry door.
But don’t think this 17-year-old fashion fanatic is superficial.
Her passion goes beyond the latest trends.
“I love style, but I also love people,” said Wideman, who has raised $6,000 since April for Women at Risk International.
She’s sold tons of handmade bracelets and other jewelry at school and her church — Grace Community Church in Huber Heights — for the Michigan-based nonprofit.
Its mission is helping women and children escape and avoid sexual slavery and human trafficking.
“Women are making beauty from their pain,” Wideman said.
She did a research paper on human trafficking last spring and later learned about WAR.
“I couldn’t believe what was happening. God just put into my heart that these women are your sisters,” Wideman said.
The Troy Christian High School senior said she was in to the Hollister Co. look, like many of her peers earlier in her high school years.
Now her dress is more influenced by indie rock and folk music.
“I kind of grew up (and away) from caring about what everyone says about my clothes,” she said. “That’s very me, doing my own thing and my own design.”
When it comes to dressing, Wideman is not a minimalist.
“I’ve never been told to be modest,” the former Dayton Children Medical Center volunteer said. “I usually wear too many clothes rather than too little.”
Q&A with Kayleigh Wideman
Q What was the last article of clothing or accessory you purchased and from where?
A I got some great deals at The Gap at the Jeffersonville outlet mall on a purple argyle sweater and cream colored crotchet cardigan. I also visited Urban Ava’s in Tipp City recently, and purchased an adorable wallet.
Q What is your favorite fashion trend, old or new?
A Mix-matching layers to create an intriguing, urban look. Also deep hues of gold and teal in jackets and cardigans always catch my eye.
Q What fashion trend do you hate most?
A An excess of Gothic black and metal, I've never been a great fan of hard-rock fashion.
Q What is your favorite footwear line?
A Christian Louboutin is my favorite shoe designer, the fashion he creates is just beautiful. Usually I opt for Target shoes, but I also like browsing Urban Outfitters and Aldo.
Q Who is you favorite fashion designer?
A Stella McCartney is my favorite designer. Everything she creates is lovely. I love her ease at making unique minimalist designs, and her tailoring is beautiful. Celine is another favorite, for similar reasons.
Q What television show has the best fashion?
A “Gossip Girl” by far. Eric Daman is the best. Part of their show is fashion, and each character’s style represents an aspect of the current runway trends.
Q What is your favorite local shopping destination?
A I usually raid The Gap at the Mall of Fairfield Commons, but I also enjoy Urban Ava’s in Tipp City; the neighborhood is quaint, and the shop is so unique and trendy.
Q What piece is your closet is desperately missing?
A More spring/summer wear. Like flowy skirts and dresses in pastels, and bright pieces in unique patterns.
Q Who is you timeless fashion icon?
A Audrey Hepburn was always classy, modest, and lovely. She could glamorize anything to make it her own, like her signature big sunglasses or diamonds and pearls.
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