Tai Beauchamp of InStyle

Is there anything Tai Beauchamp doesn’t do?! As a style expert, on-air host and national correspondent for InStyle, Tai is completely immersed in the world of fashion. And that means she’s got quite a few style tips for you -- so take note and learn all about Tai’s passions, inspirations and favorite designers.

I-ELLA: Tell us a little about what you do.
Tai: As an entrepreneur, I do a host of things. My most extensive professional background is in magazines, where I was a beauty editor. After leaving publishing, I began working in philanthropy as a consultant, which I still do. Today, I am a style expert, on-air talent/host, entrepreneur and the national correspondent for InStyle magazine. I inspire women through style!

I-ELLA: Please tell us about your time at fashion week.
Tai: Fashion Week is not nearly as crazy for me as it once was when I was required to be backstage and [at] events from what felt like sunrise to sunrise. Today, I attend presentations that I am personally interested in or ones where I am on assignment. The joy of FW is being and feeling inspired by the creativity of the designers. There is a creative energy that seemingly permeates the tents and NYC. Then there are lounges at the tent, like the InStyle Lounge, where you can mellow out a bit. And of course, there's always a glass of champagne at the end of the day or a tall glass of Sparkling Pelligrino or Zico during.

I-ELLA: If you were not a ___, you would be a ____.
Tai: Stylish humanitarian … Fashion-conscious teacher.

I-ELLA: Who or what inspires you on a daily basis?
Tai: I'm constantly inspired by people, especially young people I meet here in the states, but also abroad in underdeveloped countries in Africa or South America who are so dedicated to building and fulfilling their dreams.
I'm also inspired by and through travel. There is nothing like visiting a new town or provence for the first time and learning about and connecting with its culture. Paris, and France as a whole, is one of those places that I visit (at least once a year), and I feel so enraptured and taken by the culture. It's almost like my very own "Midnight in Paris."

I-ELLA: Please describe your personal style.
Tai: Effortless, feminine and sophisticated with a moment or two of extraness! I love a statement shoe or bold accessory.

I-ELLA: Your favorite designer/brand?
Tai: Favorites? I appreciate different designers for different reasons. I am really loving Rachel Roy right now for her feminine dresses with interesting silhouettes; Suno for their risk-taking appeal. Their mix of prints and bold colors are forward, statement making and chic! The line is also sustainable and their lengths are well-suited for my 36" inseam. For every day suiting and clean lines with some detail, I go to Emporio Armani or J.Crew. I also respect and admire designer Byron Lars' for his interpretation of sheath dresses and figure flattering seperates. He incorporates such refined yet alluring details that wear and translate well from the office to evening

I-ELLA: What is the most important piece of fashion advice you have ever been given?
Tai: Don't force fashion, as it may not agree with your style.

I-ELLA: How often do you edit your closet? Do you have any tips for our members?
Tai: I certainly don't edit my closet enough. I hoard everything! I'm good about storing. I change over my closet two times a year. It's then that I store pieces I haven't worn in two seasons, and I donate pieces I know I won't wear again.

I-ELLA: If you could raid anyone's closet, past or present, whose would it be?
Tai: I wear a lot of black, so I’d be too thrilled in Coco Chanel's closet. My red nails and lip would fit her aesthetic perfectly. And though she's at least three sizes smaller than me, I think I'd really enjoy Kerry Washington's closet. She always looks radiant and pulls off bold colors with elegance and sophistication. When I'm not swathed in black, I certainly enjoy color.

I-ELLA: Three simple rules to live by.
Tai: Kindness is far too underrated and costs nothing. Apply it! Accept yourself and others. Mascara, never leave home without it! If your eyes are the windows to your soul, your lashes are the frames!

I-ELLA: What's next?
Tai: I'm in such a great place right now. I feel so fortunate to be an entrepreneur who works in fashion, media and philanthropy. And yet, this is only the beginning. More TV, more content development, more travel, hopefully developing a new something, perhaps a book or product … I have quite a few things up my Dolman sleeve!

I-ELLA: What are your top picks on I-ELLA.com

Tai: The Celine Gorgeous Skirt, Oscar De La Renta Vintage Bolero, and the Vintage Satin Beaded Clutch.