As a teenager and young adult, I did as many “über-girly girls” and obsessed over the pages of fashion magazines. I drew sketches of outfits and collaged my way through countless issues of Vogue, Elle and W. I longed to create the perfect “look,” have the most polished hair, and be the most interesting looking girl in the room.

Now, as a 30-something young woman, I have less and less time to dedicate to my personal aesthetic. I’ve narrowed my concern for what’s in vogue, but still long to be noticed and want to stand out. I find my inspiration not from the pages of top magazines, but rather from my clients.

As a stylist and owner of Bardot, a salon in the Harbor District, I interact day in and day out with a myriad of clients from every walk of life. Everyone from the 20-something, rainbow-haired rebel to the 70-something retiree focused on comfort sits in my chair over the course of a day. I see it all. And, I’m inspired by it all.

Having grown up here, I never expected my inspiration could be found in Washington. However, I’ve come to realize while one can buy the latest fashions, a sense of style must be earned and often comes effortlessly. If you stop and pay attention you will come to realize Washington has a number of style icons. Whether she is a violinist with a flare for monochromatic eleganza, beautiful blond with extreme attention to detail and perfection, timeless diva draped in gingham and southern style, or he is a gentleman artist who still fits into a “sample size,” they can be found blazing trails in the Harbor District.

From Russell’s and Bloom to the roughly 45 salons and beauty shops in the area, Washington is a destination for style. I’m proud to be a member of the Washington Harbor District Alliance — cultivating other shops, boutiques and businesses — enhancing our reputation.

As you seek inspiration, don’t forget it can sometimes be right in front of you. And you sometimes have to step away from it to find it. Next time you’re in the Harbor District look for those intoxicating spirits of whom I speak. They could be wearing royal blue — from shoes and hose to fingernail polish and hat — subtly saying, “Look at me once, and you’ll remember me forever.”

Katie Paul is owner of Bardot and a board member of the Washington Harbor District Alliance.