Bakersfield Look - Michelle Carpenter

Written by Bakersfield Magazine

Are you a Bakersfield Native?

Yes, I was born and raised here. But for the first two years of my marriage I lived in Santa Barbara.

Is there a beauty product that you absolutely can’t live without?

Wow! I don’t know if I can narrow it down to just one. If I must choose, I would have to say it’s mascara!

Do you think Bakersfield has a style?

We are very casual...which I can relate to!

Describe your personal style.

My style would best be described as simple, tailored, and comfortable with a touch of classy.

How long does it usually take you to get ready in the morning?

Well, with a 3-year-old, a 7-year-old, and a spoiled husband, I take what I can get (which is not very much). I would have to say about 30 minutes with a shower.

Is there a celebrity or person in your life that you get your style from?

No, but I know that even though my mom passed away when I was young, I learned a few things from her. She always wore jewelry; bracelets, earrings, necklaces, etc., and always had well-manicured nails. So she must have instilled in me that those were somehow feminine qualities, because to this day, I can’t leave the house without my nails done and jewelry on. I even wear earrings to go to the gym!

What is your favorite item of clothing?

In the summer it’s flip flops and in the winter it’s Uggs.

What are you wearing?

The shirt is from Macy’s, the scarf I borrowed from my sister who bought it in Italy, the skirt is Diane von Furstenberg, the boots are Impo Stretch from TJ Maxx, the purse is Mondani, and all the jewelry is from Fabrie Jewelers.

Does your style change when you are not at work?

When I’m just relaxing and hanging out at home, I live in jeans and sweaters. I love being comfortable.

How do you personalize your ‘business’ look?

Since my office is in the comfort of my own home, I generally personalize it with a pair of comfortable pink slippers. When I head out to the ranch, I wear a pair of jeans and tennis shoes. And when I go to a political event, I wear a simple and classy dress, a pair of heels, and, of course, my favorite (and timeless) pieces of jewelry.

What are your favorite places to shop in Bakersfield?

TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, and my favorite jewelry store: Fabrie Jewelers.

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have made?

In junior high, I made the horrible mistake of wearing crazy neon colors and thinking I looked cute rocking the Aqua Net “straight up” bangs.

Are you a bargain hound?

Absolutely! I never pay full retail price for anything!

What mistakes do you think men make when they dress?

Sloppiness. I don’t like when men wear baggy clothes. And that wrinkled, unkempt look is just simply unacceptable. Have they not heard of an iron?

Article appeared in our 26-6 Issue - February 2010