FP Me Stylist Of The Week: FPKJ

Every week, I always ask the same final question to the featured stylist…

“…What does being ‘free’ mean to you?”

And every week, there is always a different answer — never the same one twice. I love hearing what everyone has to say, and this week, KJ couldn’t have answered the question better:

“…Everyone has a choice to let their spirit fly free and color the world how you were meant to.” 

Today, KJ takes us on a ride into her life in Arizona where she seeks out beauty and adventure in her everyday surroundings. Get to know more about this FP MIT, and get inspired by her gorgeous pictures below!

Get the look: Babydoll Lace Inset Swing Tunic, Runaway Slouch Cutoffs

Where are you from? How has this shaped the person that you are today?

I started my life in Minnesota, then when I was two we packed up and moved cross-country to Tucson, Arizona where I spent the majority of my childhood. I moved back and forth between the two states a handful of times which I believe has made me into an adventure-loving people person. I’m very nomadic because of how I was raised.

Get the look: Stripe Boyfriend Shirt, Flat Top Felt Hat

Where do you currently live? Can you tell us a little bit about your neighborhood?

I currently live in the safe, little (but growing) town of Gilbert, Arizona. We have plenty of little parks and lakes nearby, where I take the newest member of our small family, Ruby, to play. I live about 20 minutes from the base of the Superstition Mountains where I go hiking, occasionally take a few FP Me pics and do a little yoga here and there. 

Get the look: Run A Way Maxi, Vegan Shell Game Gladiator Sandals

How did you find your way to Free People? What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Free People is a lifestyle brand, a lifestyle that is happy, healthy, trendy and a little sassy. Working for FP Chandler is an experience like I’ve never had before. I’ve met some of my closest friends through my job, whether it be a coworker or through a collaboration inspired by Free People. That has been the greatest reward that Free People has given me.

Get the look: FP ONE Modern Mexico Dress, Wrapped Rounders Sunglass 

What do you think makes a great picture?

Authenticity. All of my pictures are styled based on color schemes. To me, that is most definitely one of the most important aspects of a photo. I base the location of my shoots around color and mood. Another method I use when looking for inspiration is listening to my favorite music, usually it’s something a little older like Eric Clapton or the Doors.

Where are some of your favorite places to take FP Me pics?

I’ll take FP Me pics wherever I see fit. If I find a cool door or just really awesome lighting, I will always utilize that. 

Get the look: Lovely Lace Layering Cami, Boyfriend Shortall

What are some of your favorite blogs + Instagram accounts to follow? 

Some of my favorite blogs/accounts I follow are the accounts of friends, like: @itsnatalieallen, @meganjennifer, @madeleinealexandra and @newdarlings. They are all so unique and creative beings. I draw a lot of inspiration from my friends.

Get the look: Van Halen Tank, Wrapped Rounders Sunglass, Matador Hat

What are three things you can’t live without?

My puppy, Ruby’s, kisses, roadtrips to places I’ve never been with good company and MUSIC!

Get the look: We The Free Lily Dip Dye Tee, Runaway Slouch Cutoffs, Wrapped Rounders Sunglass 

What songs have you been listening to on repeat as of late?

“Cut Your Teeth” by Kyla La Grange (Kygro remix), “Heart It Races” by Dr. Dog, “Untrust Us” by Crystal Castles, “The Great Fire” by Future Islands, “Fall In Love” by Phantogram… I could go on forever.

Get the look: FP ONE Ruffle Bottom Mini Dress, Caspian Tall Lace Up Boot

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I’ve never left the country so I would definitely grab my passport and travel to each corner of Africa. I would start in Morocco, find my inner tourist in Egypt then complete my dream of volunteering in Madagascar.

Get the look: New Frontier Boot, Matador Hat, Beatnik Tunic

What does being “free” mean to you?

I believe freedom comes from within. Everyone has a choice to let their spirit fly free and color the world how you were meant to. I try to always listen to myself and my own thoughts and in doing that I believe I set myself free. 

Get the look: FP One Short Sleeve Printed Peasant Top

Be sure to follow KJ on FP Me and Instagram!

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