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from combat boots to cabi

Local Veteran Michelle DePass is Curating Confidence, One Closet at a Time

Article by Lindsey Hickman

Photography by Kat Bradshaw Photography

Originally published in Lebanon City Lifestyle

For Michelle DePass, style isn’t just about clothes—it’s a form of art, a means of empowerment, and a celebration of life itself.

From an early age, Michelle viewed the world through an artistic lens. “I could draw almost anything as a child,” she recalls. “The 80s were a colorful, culture-rich time, and I started caring deeply about aesthetics—my outfit, my surroundings, everything had to be visually fun and pleasing.” That eye for composition, color, and creative energy followed her into adulthood, where it now defines her work as a cabi stylist and personal fashion curator.

Before launching her styling business, Michelle carved out an inspiring path through military service, nursing, and motherhood. A combat medic in the Army Reserves and a practicing nurse, she poured her heart into healing and service. But a decade after discovering the cabi brand, she found a new way to lift others up—through fashion.

“I was introduced to cabi in 2014 by my childhood best friend,” she says. “It was a perfect match—sophisticated, high-fashion clothing designed for real women in real life.” Over the years, Michelle became a devoted client, drawn to cabi’s ease, elegance, and timeless silhouettes. “Eventually, I realized I was always reaching for my cabi pieces. Joining the brand was the next natural step—I wanted to bring that same joy and confidence to other women.”

This fall, Michelle is unveiling her newest venture: a home-based boutique showroom here in Lebanon that promises to be as inviting as it is stylish. “The space will be layered with treasures, textures, and good vibes,” she says. “Think: fashion pop-ups, laughter, great conversation—and maybe an aperitif or two. Girl time reigns supreme.”

Her styling philosophy is both artistic and intentional. “I love curating looks like a story—each piece speaking to you like an old friend,” she says. Michelle is a champion of versatility and vibrance, whether it’s through standout accessories, bold color palettes, or a perfectly chosen topper. “Leopard is a neutral now,” she laughs, noting that this fall’s wide-collared leopard jacket and bold candlelight-orange coat are must-haves.

Michelle’s goal? To help women glow from the inside out. “If you don’t glow, it needs to go,” she insists. From closet edits to seasonal styling, she guides clients with care and intuition. “Fashion is a subtle social signal. We want it to align with our goals and feel authentic.”

Her background in nursing and military life has only deepened her passion for helping others. “After completing those early life goals, I realized I could still serve—just in a new way,” she shares. “Fashion is another way to uplift, inspire, and connect.”

Her advice for women looking to revitalize their wardrobe? Start with a closet edit. “We remove the ‘closet shamers’—you know, the pieces that no longer fit or spark joy—and we build a wardrobe that truly serves your life.”

With a heart for community, a sharp eye for design, and a mission to empower women, Michelle DePass is styling so much more than outfits—she’s styling confidence, creativity, and connection.

experience the joy of fashion that fits your life—beautifully Instagram @dashofsass24 | michelledepass.cabionline.com | dashofsass24@gmail.com