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6 6 M A C O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M A P R I L / M AY 2 0 1 9 Spark that joy, y'all Let yourself shine this spring BY HANNAH JETT MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAVE BJORKMAN C arrie Bradshaw, the fictional character known for one of the most incredibly iconic apartments of all time in the equally iconic TV series "Sex and the City", once said, "I like my money right where I can see it: hanging in my closet." As Marie Kondo's "Tidying Up" Netflix series is sparking conversations and inspiring cleaning out, the most important aspect about her teachings are only keeping items that "spark joy." It is also worth noting, though, that there are some items that we will, plain and simple, never part with. Whether it 's a dynamic pair of heels, a noteworthy clutch, or a stellar suit – there's peace in a piece with meaning and memories. Although this isn't a how-to on closet cleaning or organization, it is a how-to on loving your skin and what you're in. So, even though often times growth comes with change – like organizing or switching up your wardrobe – sometimes growth needs to begin with loving the lot you've got. Let your soul shine and let your joy be sparked, y'all. The world will be a better place because of it. Cierra Stokes MACON NATIVE Cierra Stokes knows a thing or two about style. As manager of Karats and Keepsakes, her expertise is admirable and trustworthy. Some of her most prized personal items include tan over-the-knee boots from Goodnight Macaroon, high-rise black Pistola Waxed Skinny Jeans, and Karli Buxton's Vallen Necklace. "I love how this piece of jewelry is two- toned. With the chain being gunmetal and then the pendant being gold, I can pretty much pair it with any outfit," Stokes said. "I wear this from errands to going out," she says about her White V-Neck Z Supply pocket tee. Frequently seen rocking her cheetah belt from Karats & Keepsakes, she said, "Cheetah is a neutral in my book, so it goes with me everywhere. It's the perfect accessory!" Her tip for her look to remain relevant yet refined is a three-month rule. "If I haven't worn something in that time frame, I will go ahead and get rid of it," she said. "Of course, my staples always remain in the closet and I can't imagine parting with any of them." For Stokes, the three-month rule keeps her organized but most importantly it keeps her from holding onto something that she thinks someone else may want. So far, she has not regretting giving up any piece. Stokes defines staples as items you reach for at least once a week. "I change my closet each season, but the 'staples' are always in there no matter what," she said. In her home, Stokes said she's inspired by e Home Edit. "I follow them on Instagram and I'm obsessed with all their organizing tactics and techniques," she said. "I'm also motivated to stay organized by the fact that I currently have a super small closet, and I have to be able to pack a lot into it. It definitely keeps things clean and holds me accountable."