“You can’t sit with us.” The infamous Instagram (IG) meme of a very 1990s Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss perched on city steps holding cigarettes, looking both menacing—and extraordinarily chic—is the same phrase that was a running theme in the 2004 cult classic film Mean Girls. But we’ve evolved from a world filled with style snobs to one in which everyone counts. We can confidently note that social media has completely democratized fashion as we know it, and it’s no longer a club for the elite. In fact, all you need now is a little ingenuity, passion and maybe a selfie stick to bring your #OOTD (outfit of the day) to the masses. The following 10 guardians of personal style (residing from New York to Paris) provide us with endless fashion inspiration on IG, Periscope and Snapchat without the aid of glam squads or professional lighting. There’s something unpretentious and unrehearsed about their posts—that’s exactly why we’re so addicted. Finally, we can sit with them. — Ericka Goodman

 

@GabiFresh

Gabi Gregg became a style blogger out of necessity (GabiFresh.com). She saw the lack of resources for younger trendy women who wear sizes 14 and up, so she decided to fill the void. Her blog and IG page act as a curvy girl style guidebook and provide endless inspiration to help real women nail what’s in vogue perfectly.

“My Instagram is a mixture of my more fashion-forward outfits and my laid-back casual days because I like to give people access to all sides of my life. I try to stay consistent with the filters and use clear photos so my feed looks clean and attractive.”

 

@DapperLou

This former stylist and Brooklyn, N.Y.-native, born Lougè Delcy, is an influential men’s fashion and lifestyle blogger (dapperlou.com). His artful eye brings gentlemanly polish to street wear, keeping it approachable. He also takes his followers on graffiti and art gallery treks.

“My feed usually corresponds with my current look, so if the visuals are vibrant, so is my personal style.”

 

@AlealiMay

This image consultant, model and blogger (alealimay.com) could just go along with being the prettiest girl in the room, yet she bucks the “supersexy equals hot” trend by opting for a baggy, nearly tomboyish approach to style. Her aesthetic has been so sought after, she’s collaborated with brands including Audi USA, Nike and adidas.

“It’s all about the details, which create character. I think my personal style reflects my mood, history, interests and [need for} comfort.”

 

@Guerreisms

Karl-Edwin Guerre is a notable street-style photographer (guerreisms.com) who also steps in front of the camera every now and again. And when he does, style gods pay attention—his interpretation of “casual fly” is reflected in a sublime use of tailored pieces and mixed prints.

“I’ve been blessed to shoot some of the most stylish men in the world, and my IG account documents my life behind the camera.”

 

Read more in the September 2015 issue of EBONY Magazine, on stands now!