Back on My Feet Baltimore Gala

The ensemble sported by Michelle Stafford, 41, not only showed great style, it also reflected several aspects of the Phoenix resident’s life.

As a yoga teacher and owner of Divayogi, Stafford said she’s learned the confidence to own her body and be proud of dressing to flatter it.

“Your body is your billboard. … [My peers are] like, you have three kids and you have a six-pack? How do you do that?” said the mother of three sons, 21, 19 and 17.

Stafford said she had a good example to follow. “My grandmother always dressed up. She had the hats, the gloves, the jewelry. She used to model for local stores… I love how women dressed in the ’50s. I really like it when women dress up to put that effort into accessories and look so put together,” Stafford said.

Stafford’s yoga philosophies also have helped drive her shopping patterns.

“I’ve [become] more mindful. Because I don’t believe in wasting, I go to consignment shops, thrift stores and fashion swaps,” she said.

Then there was the party’s sneaker theme — a perfect fit for Stafford’s personal dress code.

“I do wear high heels, but I also bring back-up shoes to parties all the time, because I dance at events. Your outfit should not stop you from living your life,” she explained.

HER ENSEMBLE: Adriana Papell vintage black dress with faux wrap top and ribbon appliqued black taffeta skirt from Sass Upscale Resale Boutique. White crinoline petticoat, and black-and-white magazine cover patterned patent leather bag embellished with rhinestones — both from Goodwill. Matching earrings and necklace of rhinestones, brass and crystal from Pakistan that were a gift. Guess silver sneakers from Gabriel Bros. Samsung sport watch. Silver and rhinestone bracelet and big ring that were gifts.