Today's approach to fashion has become less trend-driven and more individual. Hawai'i's fashion-forward often embrace an eclectic pairing of vintage and one-of-a-kind pieces with off-the-rack garments and accessories. If they don't find exactly what they want, they go the do-it-yourself route, deconstructing and reconstructing originals. Even the role models they choose are individualized.

We see these influences at every meeting of The Advertiser's Fashion Forum. That inspired us to dig a little deeper to find out who the members' fashion icons are, and to launch an occasional feature, "My Fashion Icon."

We begin with Tina Vines, who's energized by the look of Lulu Guinness.

TINA VINES

Age: 22

Profession: Assistant store manager at Betsey Johnson, Ala Moana, and aspiring fashion designer.

My fashion icon: Lulu Guinness, British accessories designer.

Why I chose her: "I love her lady-like, classic style. She designs things that are classic yet fun. I also love the European touches she adds to her work."

Key style elements: "Pearls! Lulu always says 'Put on your pearls, girls!' They are the ultimate classic accessory. Red lipstick. A glamorous dress. Lulu says to 'create a style that is uniquely yours, mix vintage with modern and couture with chain store.' A handbag with personality. Killer heels."

Where I found the key pieces: "My dress is Betsey Johnson. My shoes are Via Spiga from Nordstrom Rack. My pearl necklace and earrings were a Christmas gift from my mom. My faux pearl bracelet is from Forever 21. My handbag is Nine West. My vintage hats were graduation gifts from my mom and dad. My hatbox is from Ross. My Lulu Guinness book, 'Put on Your Pearls, Girls!' was a major find at Nordstrom Rack. I bought copies for my friends and family."

How to update hair and makeup? "Lulu's hair and makeup are very simple. She has short dark hair, which has a slight curl. Her makeup consists mainly of her signature red lipstick."

What car would she drive? A Mini Cooper. It's classic, chic and British-style.

What would be on her iPod? "Something classy like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald. Listening to this type of music makes me feel like I live in a more glamorous, sophisticated time. I think Lulu would agree."

What shows would she TiVo? The Style network; classic movies on Turner Classic Movies.

Reach Paula Rath at paularath@aol.com.