In BUST’s Fashion Nation series, we talk to people about their personal style.
Michelle Norris
Photographer, Tropico Photo
Atlanta, GA
Tell me about this outfit.
The earrings are by Wasted Effort. Both necklaces were made for me by my mother-in-law—the T stands for Taco, my dog, and the other one says Forrest, my husband! I wear them almost every day. The pink jacket is a vintage find from I Am That Shop online. The purple vintage sleep top is from…I can’t even remember where! The trousers are vintage from a shop in Savannah called The Future on Forsyth. The zebra slides are Sabahs. I’ve become obsessed with animal prints and slides for their comfort
Were you always drawn to fashion as a form of self-expression and creativity?
Yes! Since I could first dress myself I’ve been a fan of bright colors, anything shiny, and all the patterns. It’s an integral part of who I am. I haven’t always implemented colors in the most tasteful ways but I knew I wanted them around. My relationship to color is constantly changing and I find that it can be a reflection of my emotions or whatever phase of life I’m in.
Does your style influence your photography or the other way around?
I think they influence each other. Sometimes I’ll find a great location and I’ll build a look for it. Other times, there will be something I’m dying to wear and I’ll throw it on and go in search of a great shot. With my photography company, Tropico, the look and feel of the overall shot comes first and style complements it. At that point, it becomes more about the color story than anything else.
Do you have any advice for folks who want to have more fun with their style?
Just jump in! Maybe start with a few bold accessories or try mixing pieces in your closet that you hadn’t imagined together before. I think it’s important not to take it too seriously and be open to experimenting. Sometimes I wear something that I might not repeat, but at least I had a good time! –Nina Karin
Tell Your Own Color Story With Michelle’s Bright Picks
1. Take Shape Studio Matisse Plant Beaded Earrings, $128, takeshape-studio.com
2. Hope Macaulay Wonderland Chunky Knit Cardigan, £320, hopemacaulay.com
3. Livia Rubin Azalea Colourblock Trench Coat, £295 (SOLD OUT), oliviarubinlondon.com
4. Mala Studio Mini Mikado Bag, $210, studiomala.com
5. Nikki Chasen Lou Skirt—White Zebra, $198, nikkichasin.com
6. Charlotte Stone Paz Clog Boot In Lilac, $272, charlotte-stone.com
This article originally appeared in the Winter 2021 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!
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