Defying Fashion Norms: Gina Kieslich’s Bold Approach to Ageless Style and Self-Expression

As someone who revels in the classic elegance of all-black attire and seldom ventures beyond this monochromatic comfort zone, I find myself fascinated by fashion enthusiasts who excel at blending colors and styles with remarkable flair. Gina stands out as a true master of this craft, continually showcasing innovative combinations of hues and silhouettes through her thriving Instagram channel. As brand founder, I deeply appreciate Gina’s willingness to embrace and support new design concepts, including those that challenge traditional norms. In our latest blog entry, we had the privilege of asking Gina about her evolving personal style, her approach to ageless fashion, and how she uses style as a tool for self-expression. She also shared her thoughts on overcoming fashion stereotypes, incorporating key elements into her signature look, and her advice for embracing unique pieces like capes.

Gina, your personal style has become a significant part of your brand. How has your approach to fashion evolved over the years, and what role has your ageless attitude played in this evolution?

"My approach has definitely widened over the years. When I was in my 20-30’s, the only fashion I was exposed to was what was in my local department store. Now I can explore fashion from around the globe…igniting my ability to represent all facets of my personality and energy thru my style. It’s a very freeing mentality, and I don’t inhibit my exploration by adding “age” to any style criteria or shopping site." 

In your opinion, how can fashion serve as a powerful tool for self-expression and confidence, especially for individuals who feel constrained by traditional style norms?

"There are “norms” and then there is “normal for me”. Once we start to think of style in the context of “for me”, then fashion serves you to please you, empower you, celebrate you. These are not ways of thinking that come naturally to everyone and not everyone around you will understand or accept the “for me” once you express it. Keep going because the reward is greater than the struggle." 

What are some common misconceptions about personal style and age that you encounter, and how do you challenge these stereotypes through your work?

"I would say, the biggest misconceptions are that as we age we aren’t cool anymore and we shouldn’t be sexy. We should not adopt the “it girl” trends, or bare our body in a sexy manner. I challenge these notions by showing that we can do these things while remaining mature and sophisticated in our execution. Which is something I believe is that extra ingredient (maturity, sophistication) that comes with age."

What are the key elements of your signature style, and how do you balance staying true to your personal aesthetic while adapting to new trends and influences?

"The first element is color. Although I do occasionally mix in neutrals. Other elements are pencil skirts, belts, blazers, wide leg pants and I can’t live without a bustier or bra-top. I view trends and influences not as a place for disruption or a sweeping overhaul of my style but an opportunity to explore minor tweaks to already key elements (as mentioned above). I also recognize that not everything will suit my personal style. I need to be ok with saying “that will just not look good on me or suit my body”, and move on. The final test is always in how it makes me feel. At the end of the day, I dress for me."

Your quote, ‘Don’t stand in the shades, make them’, suggests a proactive approach to style. How do you encourage your followers to create their own unique fashion statements?

"I love this quote on so many levels, so thanks for asking. It is really a multi-faceted declaration about finding your light and what makes you shine, and then not being afraid to show it. Take charge of your personal style. On the flip side - don’t stand behind others or let them cast their style on you as you might never truly be seen. 
By demonstrating, thru my editorial-style poses that personal style is joyful, energetic, confident and even emotional at times, I think people can see that fashion should be fun and expressive no matter your age." 

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in promoting an ageless attitude in fashion, and how have you overcome them?

"I have been very fortunate on my journey in promoting ageless attitude in fashion on IG. I know of others who have been harassed for their ageless style and attitude and voice. I think Taylor Swift said it best “shake it off.” 

Looking ahead, what trends or shifts in the fashion industry are you most excited about, and how do you see these developments aligning with your personal style philosophy?

"I am loving seeing more upcycled pieces and the conversation of eco-friendly being talked about as part of the larger message across the fashion industry. Also influencers who are shopping vintage or second-hand and bringing it into their current style. Brands and stores are becoming platforms to sell pre-loved versions in exchange for credit to purchase a new item. These shifts are essential to our economy and globe. I have always shopped vintage and secondhand and treasure these one-of-a-kind pieces. I also donate, consign or recycle all textiles in my household. Nothing ever goes in the trash." 

Can you share a memorable moment or project in your career that particularly resonated with your mission of advocating for personal style and an ageless attitude?

"I have always been a fan of picture books and grew up flipping thru print magazines so earlier this year I created a coffee table book/magazine entitled “POSE: the art and wisdom of being bold, being beautiful, being ageless, being yourself, being seen after 50.”  I wanted to bring together imagery and quotes that might inspire women to not only express their personal style but to also continue “being” after 50. I am so grateful to have it include inspiring quotes from a dozen women, from around the globe."

How does your persona/ professional life and experiences influence your style choices and the way you present yourself on social media?

"I am a very visual person and my entire professional career has been spent in marketing and working with creative people. I am also an amateur photographer and art collector. So color, texture, balance and my preference for more editorial-style imagery all come very naturally to me. I am also a high-energy person and am a “mood” dresser and I talk about the energy and mood and expression that wearing something you love provides."

Are there any designers, brands, or other influencers that you particularly admire or have collaborated with that align with your vision of ageless style?  

"There are two women whom I have followed for years that I most closely identify with and admire, when it comes to ageless style: Roz Kaur (@roz_creativestylist) and Renia Jaz (Venswifestyle). They both express such freedom in their style choices and are not inhibited by preconceived notions of what a woman over 50 should wear." 

Capes have a distinctive elegance and versatility. What is your personal view on capes, and how do you incorporate them into your wardrobe? What draws you to this particular garment?

"Shape (silhouette) is a big part of what I think about when I dress. I love pieces that have a dramatic shape and flow, and capes definitely fall into that category for me. There is something inherently elegant about them." 

You own our cape, The Artiste. What was it about this cape that caught your eye, and what do you particularly love about its design and how it complements your personal style?

"I love how something that is so function (and rugged) is also so pretty. The bow collar is my favorite part along with the hood and the overall relaxed shape. It’s so dramatic in nature. I don’t have to sacrifice functionality for style and making a statement…which I love to do. It was perfect for sitting in the stands at my son’s rainy football games. Long enough to sit on and not overly tailored to coordinate with jeans and rain boots and yet I still felt sophisticated and beautiful." 

For those in our audience who are intrigued by capes but feel unsure about how to style them or which one to choose, especially when considering their functionality as rainwear, what advice would you offer? How can they incorporate capes into their wardrobe in a way that feels both stylish and practical for various weather conditions?

"You have so many styles to choose from - from short to long to more tailored to traditional. Honestly, some of them are so beautiful I would wear it even if it was a 10% chance of rain. As with other style coats, the shorter versions tend to lean more toward a day wear vibe vs the longer versions feel a bit more formal and evening appropriate. I would also consider how much you are doing while wearing the cape. The Celeste offers more freedom in the arms for carrying a bag or performing tasks than The Artiste does. The cape is not just outerwear, it’s statement wear so it becomes more than just functional, it becomes part of your style - sophisticated, beautiful, even daring."

Gina’s journey through the world of fashion is a testament to the idea that style is not confined by age or conventional norms but is rather a vibrant expression of individuality and confidence. As a respected influencer known for her fearless take on ageless style and self-expression, Gina’s insights offer invaluable perspectives on evolving personal style and overcoming stereotypes. We are thrilled to feature her as the inaugural contributor to our new blog section, "Expert Speak." Her advocacy for embracing unique fashion choices and incorporating distinctive pieces, like capes, into everyday wear perfectly aligns with our mission to celebrate fashion as an ever-evolving narrative of personal freedom and creativity. Her bold use of color and style even inspires me, a devoted lover of all-black attire, to consider adding some vibrant hues to my own wardrobe.