Chelse Ehni has a life full of purpose — in the community, at work and on the home front. She has made that her mission.
In 2023, Ehni and her husband Bryan cofounded Honor Bound Veterans. The organization, she said, “combats veteran isolation by offering engaging, community focused activities.” A financial adviser with Edward Jones, she adds, “I have a passion for helping people accomplish their goals through collaborative planning.”
Outside of work and volunteering, Ehni says, she and her husband thrive on being the parents of two children and living here with We with their rescue boxer mix named Katelyn.
“One of the things I love about Rochester,” she says, “is that we have so many people from so many different backgrounds. We don’t all have to agree, but we can appreciate all.”
The sense of purpose that figures so strongly into Ehni’s life also figures into her style. “I value sustainability and that carries over into my style. I believe in repurposing. You don’t have to end a chapter, you can always weave something into a new one,” she said.
Joe Ahlquist / Post Bulletin
Please tell us something about your style.
I would describe it as eclectic. I’ll develop a vision for an outfit and work to construct the vision by finding high quality, timeless pieces from a variety of sources.
A little history?
Growing up, my mom and I would go to consignment stores and estate sales where we would find ornate, stand out pieces of clothing, shoes and jewelry.
How does that carry over to now?
I think a lot of vintage and pieces that have been used by others can always be woven in, kind of preserving our style heritage. I focus on that and I think it creates elegance and it’s also attainable. Instead of purchasing new clothing, you can find pieces and reuse them.
What do you wear to work or at home or out and about in Rochester?
I very much dress up when I go to work — typically skirts, dresses, suits. Out and about, including as a parent, I wear a lot of my business attire. It is a reflection of who I am and I wouldn’t want to be caught in less flattering attire.
The most important component of your wardrobe?
When I was first married, my grandmother, who was not my biological grandmother but an adopted grandmother, gave me her wedding ring. She only had one son he was a vet and he died by suicide. And that ties into why our nonprofit is so close to my heart. Her husband was a World War II veteran and they met at a Red Cross station in Paris. The ring is the most sentimental piece I own. Something that tells a story is the most significant to me.
In the way of bags?
I have a vintage (Louis Vuitton) that I love. I have it with me all the time. I only have one and that’s fine. You don’t need a ton. You cant carry multiple.
And favored shoes?
I have a pair of silver heels that are silver leather, they are not comfortable, but they are very cool.
And outerwear?
I love a long wool or cashmere coat because they are warm and the cold is not fun. Right now, I have a camel one that I’ve had for years. I picked it up at a thrift store. I think I spent more on the dry cleaning than I did on the coat. It’s from England and it’s just gorgeous. Any long wool or cashmere coat is my go to for the winter.
Preferred season and colors for clothing?
Fall is great because you can layer scarves and boots and be really cozy. … I try to have a colorful wardrobe, but I can’t say I have a favorite color.
What do you hope to teach your children about style?
I think it is really important, the way you present yourself. It’s not everything, but being put together and paying attention to the details speaks a lot to who we are as people. If we’re paying attention to what we’re wearing and we’re putting our best foot forward, everyday, even if it’s hard to face the day, that can make a difference.
Joe Ahlquist / Post Bulletin
Do you know someone who has unique style? Send nominations to
with “Your Style” in the subject line.