Warning: The below photos are going to give you serious sunshine envy…
Being born and raised in Florida, everything about Leah’s FP Me profile is making me miss my sunshine state dearly. I had the pleasure of meeting her last year in Miami when the team and I headed down for the Free People Miami Beach store opening. As the store manager, Leah’s got the FP Miami style on lock. Bold prints, bright colors… her photos capture the essence of South Florida, and may or may not make you dream about a tropical vacation for the rest of the day. Get to know more about Leah below!
Get the look: Havana Set
Where are you from? What’s your fondest memory of growing up there?
I’m from Waynesville, NC, it’s about 20 minutes west of Asheville, NC. One of my fondest memories growing up there was taking trips in the summer with my entire family to ‘sliding rock.’ It’s this giant natural water slide in the middle of the woods; it was pretty magical. I still like to go when I get the chance to visit home.
Get the look: Hendrix Fringe Leather Jacket
When did you decide that Miami was the destination you wanted to be?
I’ve always been a beach babe at heart! Something about the sun, salty air and crystal blue water has always drawn me in; so when I graduated I knew the best place to find all of those had to be Miami.
Get the look: Just Because Slip, Strappy Back Bra
What’s one thing you’ve learned about Miami since living there that people might not expect?
Miami is not only about night-life but is immersed with extremely creative and artistic individuals. There is an emerging culture of young artists in Miami and it’s incredible to be surrounded by such inspiring talent and young adults who are following their passion.
Get the look: Kingsley Dress, Harpoon Wrap Sandal
How did you make your way to Free People?
I worked with Urban Outfitters for just under 3 years and was constantly asking when Free People was going to make it’s way to South Florida. When I found out that it was actually going to happen I immediately connected with Mel on Linkedin and hounded her for weeks for an interview. Luckily my persistence paid off and I found my home here with FP!
Can you give us a little glimpse into a normal day in the life of Leah?
I ALWAYS start my morning with coffee, then I like to walk over to the beach (I’m lucky enough to live a block away), in the afternoon I go to a yoga or barre class with my friends and in the evening I really enjoy walking to the grocery store and then making dinner ( I find cooking really enjoyable), and I always love to end my day cuddling on the sofa with my 2 fluffy kitties and a good movie.
Get the look: Whitney Bra, Trinity Shrug Sweater
If your best friend were doing an impersonation of you, how would they quote you?
“So my kitties did the cutest thing!”
Get the look: Big Dipper Oversized Tee, Fringe Coin Necklace
How do you think your personality reflects in your personal style?
As a taurus, I’m a very laid back person and that really translates into my style, I love fashion but prefer to be comfy and casual at the same time; anything flowy or oversized, but I also love pops of prints and patterns, and at the moment anything white.
Get the look: Nanda Bandeau, Nanda Bottoms
What are three things you absolutely can’t live without?
My fluffy kitties, Tallow and Gypsy, my turquoise jewelry, and a good cup of coffee.
Get the look: Free Swing Cami, Strappy Back Bra
Get the look: Jen’s Pirate Booty Tahitian Top, Harpoon Wrap Sandal, Rolling Black Round Top Hat, Everything Rosey Pencil Skirt
For anyone visiting South Beach, what’s one thing that you would, without a doubt, recommend they do/see?
I always tell everyone to visit the Wynwood arts district. It’s an immensely inspiring area of Miami. Every wall is covered with artwork and it’s emerging with art galleries, craft beer bars and new restaurants almost every day; and it makes for a pretty interesting place to people watch.
Get the look: Tattered Up Shred Slip
What does being ‘Free’ mean to you?
Free to me means living simply, authentically and with a desire to immerse yourself in the moment.
Get the look: Camp Vibes Sleep Kaftan
Be sure to follow Leah on FP Me and Instagram!
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So much beauty here! I love her outlook and her thoughts on being free meaning to immerse in the moment :)
Warm Regards,
Alexandra
http://www.littlewildheart.com
Beautiful!
very inspiring!
What fabulous outfits! I love the same laid-back, bohemian style!