Kimberly Kong, the woman behind the local glam-on-a-budget blog, Sensible Stylista, and the bicoastal food blog, Nomtastic Foods, isn’t your typical beauty blogger. Sure, she’s a great go-to for tips on fabulous fashions, but her day job is perhaps even more glamorous. She’s a Juilliard-trained pianist who teaches her musical craft at Johns Hopkins University. But, to Kong, whether it’s beauty, food or music, it’s all just inspiration. “I’ve been a creative all my life,” she says. “All art inspires me.” Here, she shares some of her faves.
Perfect Purse
“Every woman needs an investment bag, and to me that is my Boy Chanel bag. This piece oozes edgy, and it’s a design that will last the test of time.”
Smile Style
“My Tiffany T smile pendant is classic and goes with everything. Style it up with a beautiful dress or wear it with a simple jeans-and- tee combo.”
About Face
“Skin care is very important to me and I’m big into K-beauty. Sooryehan Bichaek True-Rejuvenating Yoon Cream keeps my face hydrated all year long.”
Cool Cosmetics
“I use It Cosmetics’ Je Ne Sais Quoi and NYX Super Skinny Eye Marker religiously! The lippie adds a beautiful tint while moisturizing, and the NYX eyeliner helps me get the perfect cat eye without breaking the bank.”
Star Bright
“The Evening Star Cafe is easily one of my favorite restaurants. Make sure to try the wild mushroom bruschetta and chicken fried oysters when you go!”
Line Up
“I’m a sucker for statement jewelry and Full Line offers bold earrings for affordable prices.”
Cat’s Meow
“A pair of fun sunnies can do wonders for a potentially blah outfit. These Tory Burch cat eye sunglasses are a classic design perfect for everyday wear.”
This post originally appeared in our February 2020 print issue. For more profiles on Northern Virginia notables, subscribe to our newsletters.