Editor’s Note: This story appeared in the December 2015 ORANGE Issue IV.
By Jenna Meltzer
Moving from the land of combat boots to the land of cowboy boots, Jackie Bruni did not know what to expect when she left behind New York City’s edgy fashion scene for Austin’s conservative charm. Culture shock turned into an opportunity for Bruni to show Austin her unique city style when she started her own blog, SoHo to SoCo, which now has over 2,000 followers.
Bruni’s grandmother used to make custom couture dresses for her to wear as a child, and her mother was in the textiles industry, so it wasn’t long before Bruni began to work with textiles herself. “When I was five, I was making dresses for my Barbies and putting on fashion shows,” Bruni says. “If you look at my baby pictures, they’re all of me dressed up in crazy costumes with tons of jewelry and makeup on. I would go out in public like that.”
Growing up in New York City, Bruni developed a headstrong personality, which is reflected in her fashion sense. “I think my style shows how much of a risk-taker I am,” she says. “I try to stray away from the norm.” Bruni confidently rocks her unique clothing choices — feeling positive and comfortable in her own skin while wearing an outfit is all that matters to her.
This winter season, Bruni is excited to break out her fur vests. “They’re so cute and timeless and can really make an outfit. You can layer them or wear them on their own and their super warm,” she says.
There isn’t a single word that can describe Bruni’s style because it is constantly changing with her mood. “I think I’m definitely more edgy, but one day I can be grungy, and the next day I could look more refined,” she says. “I think that’s the best part about fashion. Your persona can change with your outfit.”
Bruni first decided to create an Instagram to showcase her outfits and personal brand after receiving multiple compliments from people about her clothing choices. “It’s a great way to show people what I’m really passionate about and to get my name out there,” she says. It is Bruni’s hope to learn more about herself and her style with the feedback she receives from her Instagram.
If she had to choose her favorite item in her huge walk-in closet, Bruni says it would have to be her beaded Anna Sui chiffon top. The shirt was given to Bruni by the iconic designer herself after she completed a summer internship with the label. “It’s incredible. I still haven’t worn it yet because I’m too scared that I’ll ruin it,” Bruni says.
Bruni’s internship helped her figure out how to balance a conservative style with her own added edgy touches. “Even though I’d have to look more professional, I’d still pair an outfit with really cool jewelry or accessories to make it more me,” she says.
As an Austin transplant from New York, one of the fashion capitals of the world, Jackie’s expertise in the latest styles inspires her followers to be unique and to express their individuality through their clothing choices — no matter how outlandish they may be.
Follow Jackie’s style on her Instagram account: @soho2soco
