Tuesday Takeover: Telana McCullough

Aug 17

I’m proud to welcome the stunning Telana McCullough to takeover Tuesday! Telana McCullough is a trailblazer in all aspects. Currently working as a Staff Attorney for the Oklahoma State Department of Education, and serving as the Diversity Committee Chair for the Oklahoma Bar Association, Telana has shown her dedication to our community. Serving as an example to young girls all over Oklahoma. You should not only want to be part of your community’s change, but you should instead strive to lead it.

Telana’s uses her style to encapsulate her motives throughout any given day at work. Viewing her clothing as “armor” helps Telana ensure she feels confident, beautiful, and ready to handle any task with ease. I’m so excited to share Telana’s tips and tricks on how to make any work outfit bold, fun, and most importantly- helping you make your fashion statement!

Okay! It is hard to put a label on my work style. In many ways, I'm a minimalist who appreciates nice things. Of course, I mix in some theatrics too. Ultimately, I do what I want to do. I wear what feels natural and good to me. I am not rushing to find out what some people think is “in” right now. I’m sure the style will make its way to my favorite store. Then, I will decide whether it is a no or go for me. And, I follow business professional attire guidelines that make good sense. I value pieces that are simple yet stately. I don't like frill or clutter or styles that are too busy.

I believe in functional fashion. Different clothes and shoes boost different emotions and serve different purposes. I use that to my advantage. Most days, I want a peaceful aesthetic, and some days I need some fire. Many of my clothes remind me of a song that carries me through my day. Functional shoes are essential as well. High heels are my preference in terms of looks. However, I keep my flats nearby because I have a daily goal of walking and climbing as many stairs as I can. I also enjoy classic and big accessories. My outfits are my armor for going out into the world. I ask myself which armor will help me take care of my business best that day.

Above all, my style reflects some of my personal values, including freedom, creativity, self-respect, authenticity, determination, courage, growth, poise, fun, and self-love. I love my dark skin, and I wear colors that accentuate it. I love my curves, and I wear styles that compliment them. From my braids, twists, or Afro puff to my hoop earrings to my nails to my clothes, I have a work style that I am very proud of because it reflects me.

Stay Faithful to Your Favs

Simply put, Calvin Klein gets several of my work wardrobe coins. I adore a good sheath dress. Calvin Klein sheath dresses are the most popular thing in my work wardrobe because they are always just right. I've tried to break it off and see other designers, but I've ended up right back in Calvin's reliable arms. The dresses are perfect because they fit nicely and stretch to give my curves a sweet church hug, which works great for me in the work environment. The pink heels give me all the positive P!nk, Elle Woods, and Patti Labelle extra vibes I need. So naturally, this outfit gives me strong Chaka Khan and Whitney Houston's "I'm Every Woman" energy.

Stay Bright Never Boring

Bright colors are my favorite colors to wear! I do tone it down for work, so the focus won't be on me looking like a highlighter (as my best friend would say). Pairing brighter pieces with darker colors gives me the balance I need. Anytime I wear this blazer, yes, I hear Coldplay's "Yellow" in my head all day. This outfit gives me an extra dose of grounding, comfort, and calm.

Work Place Vibes: Powerful, Flexible, and Free

I've been a fan of jumpsuits for a long time, but in a cute and casual capacity. However, I recently started noticing and liking them for workwear. My mom gifted me this jumpsuit because she knows how I appreciate color, Calvin, and pockets for my snacks (functional fashion). The last time I wore this outfit, I found myself spontaneously doing some kind of river dance and wobble mash-up. This outfit makes me feel especially powerful, flexible, and free.

Makeup: Sierra Foulger

Photos: Maryh Lashell