Meet STYLE’s Contributor of the Month : Sommer Lee Johnson

Each month get to know one of our exceptional talented and stylish Contributors.  This month Charlotte STYLE Magazine introduces you to Sommer Lee Johnson – mother, blogger, animal lover and marathon runner.

Tell the readers a little about yourself.

I’m a mother of two, the Boy (11) and the Girl (9), and wife of one. I want to rescue every stray animal on the planet and if left up to me and me alone I’d probably be on Confessions of an Animal Hoarder if I actually did rescue every stray animal. I’m a Duke fan living in a house full of Tar Heel lovers (but they already know the deal–Go Devils!). I love food, running, and family. I’m a big mushy, hopeless romantic–but you would never know it.

What is your drive or inspiration for writing/covering stories?

The art of writing is one that has had my attention for quite some time. The world around us is an interesting and complex place. Couple the two–writing and the interesting nature of the world–and you have every reason for ever writing anything. When I write about something, whether it’s a subject I know well or not at all, it is like opening a present–the discovery of knowledge is one of humanity’s most amazing gifts from God.

What is the one thing in your closet that you consider a “classic” that you can’t live without?

Sneakers. Yes, I have heels, boots, sandals, and all of that, but let me tell you–a sneaker can’t be beat. It’s the universal symbol of getting things done. Think about it. When you see a woman in a skirt or a suit with sneakers on–what is your first impression? “Oh she’s about to go in and get it done. Let me move out of her way.” I love sneakers–especially my running shoes.

Who inspires you?

The Girl, my daughter. She inspires me to be free. Her spirit is so free and her thoughts are always on the tip of her tongue and it makes me want to just be happy and free and honest like her. I always smile when she is around. She comes into a room and says, “Go mommy, go mommy” and I start dancing without thinking about what I am doing. She helps me to breakdown and let go–to be so little and do that is amazing. I want to be like her when I grow up.

Sommer, "The Boy" and "The Girl"

If you could write about anything, what would it be?

I usually write whatever comes to my brain anyway, but I suppose if I had to choose a specific topic it would most likely be about living a healthy lifestyle. What does fashion mean to you? I use to fake this answer and say “Fashion is everything. It’s exciting and yada yada” but if I may be completely honest, fashion is just clothing to me. The art and the time that goes into it is interesting and pretty amazing. The shows are exhilarating, and the talent of some people to put things together and make it look amazing is awe-inspiring. But for me, unfortunately, when I think of fashion I don’t think about the components it took to put it together. I think about how it is going to make me look, what is it going to fit like, and can I clean the house in it.

Name 3 beauty products that you can’t live without?

OMG, this is so right on time. Ok, I’m 32 and noticing that my skin isn’t exactly 17 year old skin at this stage in the game, so I began searching for things to buy. I was so overwhelmed by all of the anti-age/wrinkle stuff that I didn’t buy a thing! I am going to have to get something soon because I can’t be 35 looking 75. So as of now, my fave beauty products are my E.L.F. smokey eye shadow kit. Love love love it. Everything I need for everyday, date night, and slutting it up is right there. Yes to…chapstick is my go-to lip balm. I have one in my camera bag, clutch, and every day purse. Can’t leave home without it. Finally, Eucerin body lotion is a must. I simply can’t live without it.

Sommer and her "Runner-in-Crime" Aisha

What’s your favorite trend this season?

It would have to be prints.

Describe your personal style?

Simple, easy, with a pop of “daaaaamn” every now and then. I like classic style. Ralph Lauren makes me drool. Simple elegance is it.

When did you realize that you wanted to be a writer?

When I was 3. I learned to read and write at an early age and I fell in love with the written word. I’m not a hugger (with strangers). Most of the time, I’m not the warmest person in the room, so writing was my way to break out of the shyness and move into a different part of the world.

If you could borrow any celebrity’s closet for the day who would you choose and why?

Oprah. Have you seen her button down shirt game? Love it.