Creator of Milk Teeths, Ashley Baluyut, has an incredible eye for hidden gems. The Orange County native frequents op shops in her area, wading through piles and piles of musty garments to find the most incredible one-off pieces. Photos of her outfits are teamed with charming posts about where she found it and where she wore it. A recent recipient of Refinery29’s Next Big Style Blogger award, don’t be surprised if you spot her front row at Fashion Week in the not-too-distant future.

When and why did you start blogging? I officially started style blogging in July last year. I wanted to dress better myself and figured that documenting what I wore would jumpstart my creative juices!

What is the story behind your blog's title? I like antiquated words and phrases and I always thought milk teeth was a cute way of saying baby teeth. Before I started style blogging, my blog was just a general diary so I came up with a title that I liked - fashion was not on my mind at all. I had to add the "s" because milk teeth'' was already taken! 

What are your favourite blogs?

1.            Liebemarlene (http://www.liebemarlene.com)

2.            Bleubird Vintage http://www.bleubirdvintage.typepad.com)

3.            Junkaholique (http://www.junkaholique.com/)

4.            And many, many more!

How would you describe your personal style? Kind of all over the place! Super girly one day and really grungy and boyish the next. My only stipulation is that I have to be comfortable in everything I wear, shoes included! I'm definitely not someone who values fashion over function. As for influence, history influences my style, hands down. Old movies, TV shows, even literary characters…

What are your earliest memories of your love for fashion? I remember being 11-12 and being really into designer name brands for some reason. This is bizarre because I don't care for name brand or designer things at all now, but there was definitely a period of time when I would flip through my mum's Vogues and soak up all I could about what was going on in fashion. Even earlier than this I remember dressing up in my mother’s old clothes - but I think everyone does that!

Who is your style icon? A little clichéd, but Audrey Hepburn. She just oozes style. Even when she wore jeans and a button-up shirt she looked amazing. Looking good in such simple clothing is the ultimate style test, in my opinion.

What are your top three styling tips? A slouchy men's cardigan goes with anything and everything. Red lipstick can add just enough intrigue to a simple outfit to save it from being boring. Brightly coloured or patterned socks peeking out from your pant leg can add just the right touch of wit to an outfit. I love when I see seemingly sombre dressed people and then catch a glimpse of a bright sock when they sit down.

Who are your top three favourite designers? Miuccia Prada, Sonia Rykiel and Erin Fetherston

What's your trend forecast for the coming season? Buttoned-up collars, penny loafers, and teddy-boy style. At least, that's what I'll be in to!