25 Most Stylish Bostonians of 2008 -- Leah Ikeda
Leah Ikeda
Job: Manager at Beehive, sake sister at Pho Republique
Residence: South End
Age: 29, "and I'm looking forward to 30"
How would you describe your fashion philosophy? It's not really a philosophy, it's more like a dementia. It's always evolving. I try to be a little theatrical and throw in a little Asian sprinkling. I also like to support local artists, and almost everything I wear is from a local store or a local jewelry designer. The local artists here are so creative and talented - and they're the only ones who understand me!
Who has most influenced your look? Cruella De Vil? And then Madame Butterfly. Those dames really knew how to dress.
What's the most far-out item in your wardrobe? I have a giant feathered headdress which sits about a foot above my head. It sort of moves when I move - people try to kill it when I wear it! It's from Marie Galvin of GALVIN-ized Headware. Her pieces are whimsical and fortified and really creative with great early 20th-century flair. I wear her pieces probably every day. If I had a choice between losing my fiancé and her pieces, I would be so single!
What one item of clothing would you never be caught dead in? I'm willing to give anything a try.
Has too much sake ever led to a regrettable fashion choice? I would never blame just the sake. Are you kidding me? My favorite accessory is a glass of sake.
Which is harder - pairing the perfect wine with your meal or pairing the perfect accessory with your outfit? I think it's more about pairing the perfect wine with my outfit. 