FP Me Stylist of the Week: FPkaty

FPKaty… oh how I miss you.

Not too long ago did this gal grace the Navy Yard with her presence. A PR intern she once was, but more like a muse to me. She was my go-to whenever I needed pictures for the blog. Her presence in front of the camera made my job really easy. She was always down to pose, and always had a few key game changers when it came to styling an outfit. She has that tomboy, Lou vibe, but adds touches of femininity in all the right places. I’m so glad we had the chance to get to know each other. In a few short months, she became one of my really good friends, and I’m excited for you all to get to know her a little bit more below. FPKaty, It’s been a pleasure…

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

I grew up right across the river from Portland, OR in a small town called Camas. Portland is a gem, and I credit my creativity to having the city’s colorful canvas at my disposal throughout my childhood. Being surrounded by such a beautiful landscape everyday was a privilege.

Get the look: Side By Side Slip

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

I currently live in an amazingly quaint apartment with my best friend and our two kittens on top of Queen Anne in Seattle, WA. Queen Anne has it all – A weekday farmer’s market, my favorite taco joint, the most popular lookout point in Seattle, countless “free libraries” lining the neighborhood streets… I could go on and on. The best part is that I can watch the sunset over the city skyline and see the Space Needle from my apartment’s rooftop. It’s kind of magical.

Get the look: Skinny Strap Brami, Draped in Plaid Shirt, Free Bird Straight Leg

 How did you find your way to Free People?

I had followed and admired the brand and blog for years before I applied for a stylist position during college. It was the perfect fit, and I’ve had an amazing past three years working with the company in different positions, coast to coast!

Get the look: Electric Orchid Print Swing Tunic

What was your experience like interning at Home Office?

Interning at Home Office was an unforgettable experience. I was constantly surrounded by strong, creative, ambitious people who supported my ideas and challenged my skills. My team gave me the opportunity to touch different areas of the company that interested me, from blogging, to styling, to joining the brand’s music committee! Hands down, the biggest highlight of my internship was the people. The friends I made while living in Philly are some of my favorite people in the world. It was truly one of the most rewarding summers of my life.

Get the look: Diamonds in the Sky Dress

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who aspires to intern here, what would it be?

As simple as it might sound, Free People is all about letting your true colors shine through. It wouldn’t be the same brand if it weren’t made up of such diverse talents. Being yourself is key, and having an open mind will allow you to learn SO much more than you ever thought possible. Oh, one more tip: Remember to have a great sense of humor. The folks at Home Office are some of the hardest working people I know, but that doesn’t mean they’re all work and no play!

Get the look: Easy Livin Slip

What does a day in the life of Katy look like?

No day is typical, but most weekends start with me snoozing with my kittens, drinking hot tea and spinning whichever vinyl I’m feeling that morning (the volume always too loud). After, I try to keep a strong sense of spontaneity, so I can be found anywhere – My favorite used bookstore in Capitol Hill, my go-to record store in Ballard, jogging around Green Lake or exploring the farmer’s market in Fremont. Regardless, my days always end surrounded by friends, whether we’re watching a movie on my couch or watching the city sleep into the early hours of the morning.

Get the look: Gwen Leather Choker, Draped in Plaid Shirt

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is pretty simple. I appreciate all types of fashion, but I tend to dress on the minimal side. My go-to outfit is jeans, a tee and sneakers or Birkenstocks. That being said, I’m a sucker for anything flowy – Dresses, sweaters, etc. Comfort is key!

Get the look: Dusk Til Dawn Shift, Vintage Charlie High Top

What is one of Seattle’s best kept secrets?

If I were to tell you, it wouldn’t be a secret! Just kidding. Sureshot Espresso is really special to me. It’s the type of hole-in-the-wall place you accidentally stumble upon (I thought it was a camera shop for a couple of years). They have the BEST white coffee, chai (get the Big Train!) and scones (raspberry almond is my favorite).

Get the look: Tattered Flag Scarf, Raw Hem Denim Cutoff, Extended Brim Clipperton, Confection Tube Top

What music festivals are you looking forward to this year?

I’m most jazzed about Sasquatch! and Pitchfork, as I will be attending both this year. Sasquatch! is my favorite festival – It’s out in the middle of one of the most beautiful areas of rural Washington, and everyone escapes to this world where our tents are our homes, our neighbors become our best friends, we eat hot dogs for every meal and no one showers (so glamorous!). Everyone roughs it all weekend, all in the name of music. This will be my first year attending Pitchfork in Chicago, and I bought my ticket almost solely to see Mac DeMarco live.

Get the look: Short But Sweet Half Slip, FP ONE Crochet High Neck Bra, We the Free Oasis Tee

What essentials do you always carry around with you?

A few things I try to have on me at all times are a good book, headphones and a pen. You never know when you’ll have a few minutes to sit down and read, stumble into a new park that reminds you of your favorite song or discover a restaurant you *must* jot down. Also, Chap Stick. Always.

Get the look: Animal Instincts Romper, Grizzly Brushed Beanie

What are five songs you can’t stop listening to at the moment?

I can’t narrow it down! “Let It Happen” by Tame Impala, “Violently” by Natalie Prass, “The Wheel” by SOHN and the entire new Father John Misty album have been on repeat lately. Also, one song I never get tired of: “I Could Be Wrong” by Chromeo and Ezra Koenig.

Get the look: Whitney Bra, Isabel Choker

What does being “free” mean to you?

Free is the independence to do what you want with your life, regardless of the consequences.

Get the look: Florence Tied Sides One Piece

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