Emily and I have known each other for years, and as you'll see below, she leads a pretty colorful life. She's always game to try new things (food, places, experiences), and considers her friends more like family.

Emily is the Director of Communications for Benchmarc Restaurants; she oversees both the group's and Celebrity Chef Marc Murphy's public events, appearances, social media & partnerships. In a word: she's a boss. In getting to know Emily, I was always impressed by the way she sets goals for herself and swiftly accomplishes them. Before she worked for Benchmarc, she spent the better part of a year looking for the job, never losing patience or settling for something not quite right. This is the way she lives her life and a lesson I cherish learning from her; when it comes to big decisions, playing the long game is almost always worth it.

Emily and I spent a chilly afternoon a few weeks ago hanging in her apartment and going through her closet. I just know you're going to love her (and her apartment)! Emily's words are below:

How would you describe your style?

I don’t even think I have style! But if I had to try to describe it, I’d say it’s a combination between classic “New York” with lots of black and pops of colors and patterns mixed in that reflect my personality. I try to be comfortable no matter what and love a good lip-gloss.

Jacket: Forever 21, Top: Old Navy, Jeans: Topshop

Who is your style icon?

I have style crushes on Lauren Conrad and Olivia Palermo. Yes, I realize they both might have started on a reality show back in the day but they’ve grown their brands into amazing successes’. Lauren’s style is beach chic, effortless and feminine with lots of blush, white and gold undertones. Olivia wears floral, faux fur, fun prints and leather. I feel like my “style” is a mix between the two of them especially because I live in the city but grew up on the East End of Long Island and go back and forth so I have that constant struggle of city verse beach wardrobe.

Favorite brand or retailer?

I mix it up a lot and I think it changes with my mood and budget! Zara has classic basics like t-shirts, dresses and blazers. Old Navy has revamped recently and I really like their bright bold jackets and they actually have great shoes. Then I love to splurge on Parker and cashmere sweaters and scarfs at Club Monaco. I will never stray from shopping online at Nordstrom and ASOS, plus you can’t beat their return policies.

What is your general approach to fashion?

Confidence. If I like it, feel good in it, then I wear it. I don’t really follow trends and just try to dress in a way that I feel happy and that is practical for my life. Some days that’s a dress or black jeans, a fitted jacket or blazer and booties. Other days it’s more casual with ripped jeans, an oversized top or sweater and my “sneals” sneaker heels or flat boots. In the summer, I’m always in an easy breezy work dress or a romper and a great pair of gladiator sandals.

If you had to wear one piece of clothing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

My high-waist jeans from TopShop. Specifically the Jamie, they are the most comfortable jeans you will ever ever wear and they literally look good on every single body type. Trust me. They also don’t ever stretch. I love them and feel great in them.

What is your earliest fashion memory?

Overalls. I was born in Vermont and lived there until I was 8 and I had these overalls as a kid that I loved a lot. I’m happy to see they are making a come back.

Any tips or tricks with regards to style, beauty, or shopping that you want to share?

I really believe a manicure is an easy way to express yourself; it adds that “Je ne sais quoi” to your outfit and can make a huge impression without actually saying anything. Also don’t ever underestimate the power of a good cocktail ring, statement necklace and perfume.

Thank you so much, Emily! I love you :)