Fabulous, modern, and classic are just a few words to describe the apparel at Belk and Arlene Goldstein, Belk INC.’s Vice President of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction.

Arlene Goldstein has over twenty-five years of fashion industry experience under her fashionista belt. She has traveled all over the world to some of fashion’s hot-spot cities in search of emerging trends and brands for Belk stores.With her signature styling and Southern fashion charm, Arlene truly exemplifies Belk’s motto “Modern. Southern. Style.”

I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Arlene at the 2014 Spring Preview at Belk the Summit. She looked amazing—sporting a leather moto jacket, printed dress, and leopard heels, which is her favorite “color” *wink* What fashionista doesn’t love leopard?!

The Spring Preview was spectacular, and I cannot wait for the trends to hit the racks! I sense a shopping spree in the near future *wink*

After Arlene’s presentation, she sat down with the VIP to chat about her favorite Spring 2014 trend, personal style, and more!

Now, without further ado, I present to you the VIP interview with Arlene Goldstein, Belk INC Vice President of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction.

VIP: What is your favorite Spring 2o14 trend?

Arlene: I love jet setter because I love the prints. Since I travel so much, I wear a lot of black, and the jet setter trend is a chance for me to integrate some “Oh WOW!” pieces without stepping too far outside of my comfort zone. I also love the accessories–the tribal twist is definitely fabulous!

VIP: Oh, yes! Accessories make all of the difference! So, when you are not traveling with Belk, what are some of your favorite things to do?

Arlene: Well, I have a slew of grandkids, and I love being with them anytime I can! I enjoy going antique shopping too–I love old stuff. Also, if I happen to be in town when the flea market is, I love going out to it to see what all I can find. If I leave with one little trinket–I am happy. 

VIP: How would you describe your personal style?

Arlene: I think it is classic with a twist. I like to ensure that I have the basic building blocks of a wardrobe like those great, timeless pieces that can take you from season to season. 

VIP: What is your favorite fashion era and why?

Arlene: I love the 40’s because they were very romantic and sort of the post-war ear where the hemlines got longer–which we can see the hemlines dropping again in today’s fashion trends. Also in the 1940’s women were very chic–they dressed from head-to-toe with marvelous style and elegance. 

VIP: What is your favorite fashion season?

Arlene: Definitely fall!

VIP: What is your favorite fall fashion piece?

Arlene: Absolutely a jacket!

VIP Question: What is one item in your closet you would never toss out and why?

Arlene: I do not know that I have one piece, but I really love keeping accessories because you can wear older jewelry with more trendy jewelry for a look that is totally your own. Also, I would never toss out anything that was vintage. 

Keep up with Arlene Goldstein on Twitter @BelkFashionBuzz. Be sure to check out her writings for the Huffington Post for fun and fabulous fashion articles you will love!

Twitter: click here.

Huffington Post: click here.

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn