Rachel Sutherland, 33, is the Style editor for the Charlotte Observer. She has covered fashion and beauty for the Observer since September 2007.  She's not big on rules, but does adhere to a few principles when it comes to style: You don't need to spend a million dollars to look like you do; No one has to know what size you wear unless you tell them, and most importantly, self-confidence is sexier than any stiletto or tight dress, and it matches everything you own.  She was recently completed her first triathlon. The Michigan native is a graduate of Wayne  State  University, and started her  journalism  career  at the  Battle Creek Enquirer before

before moving to Charlotte in 1998 to join the Observer.  She lives in the Lake Norman area with her husband, Patrick and children, Nathan and Vivian. She is a frustrated crafter and adores all things vintage.