Interview with Couture Carrie and Under the Sheets-shhh

Please meet today's guest blogger Couture Carrie. Go over to her site today, to see my answers to these same questions. For me, we changed question #6 to what my thoughts are on specific pieces to San Francisco.

1)Who are your fashion icons and whom would you interview if you had the chance?
My fashion icons include Chloe Sevigny for her individuality, the Olsens for their trendsetting

 knack, Sienna Miller for her ability to be cute and sexy at once, and Kate Moss for her easy chic. If I could interview a few designers, I would probably choose up-and-comers like the Mulleavy sisters at Rodarte, perhaps one Couturier, such as Christian Lacroix, and Norma Kamali, for her staying power in the industry. 

2)What piece of clothing could you not live without?
My skinny jeans. I wear them as pants or as leggings, year-round, and have them in gray, ink wash, ivory and black. My preferred denim designers are J Brand and Superfine... incredible fit, and they stand up to multiple washings (never put your skinnies in the dryer, darlings – it destroys the stretchiness!). On a budget? Try Silence & Noise at Urban Outfitters.

3)What is your definition of Couture?
I am a traditionalist, so for me, Couture is a very narrow category, defined by the iconic French and Italian houses where every piece is painstakingly created by hand, and typically custom-made for a particular client. Couture is delightful, fanciful, exquisitely wrought, and an art that ought to be preserved! Dior, Lacroix, Chanel, Valentino and Armani spring to mind. But there are lesser-known couturiers as well. This Bordeaux velvet embroidered coat was made by Couturier Franck Sorbier.

4)Your thoughts on east vs. west coast style. 
For me, East Coast style is more tailored, and often relies on darker hues. New Yorkers are notorious for wearing black year-round. West Coast style feels more easy and relaxed, with more casual fabrics, and a plethora of colorful prints. 

5)Your advice on how to be comfortable in your own skin.
Know your strengths and flaunt them. Never draw attention to your weaknesses. Appreciate your body as a well-oiled machine... Feed it properly and get plenty of exercise so that you always feel physically strong; it can help when you are feeling emotionally weak. Never feel bad for feeling bad. Trust that anything is possible and that your dreams CAN come true with perseverance.

6)Specific pieces for New York.
Blazers, and lots of them... from the latest boyfriend blazer to the peak-shouldered Balmain. High-heeled shoe boots. Asymmetric dress in a jewel tone. Ink wash skinny jeans. Wellies for rainy days. A killer clutch for evening and an oversize slouchy carry-all for day.

7)Growing up, what did you want to be? 
Initially, I aspired to be a gymnast. When it was clear that my height would be an impediment to this goal, I decided it would be more practical to be a novelist. As a teen, I changed my mind again and decided to follow in my mother’s footsteps and become a lawyer. Though I practiced law for two years, it wasn’t my calling, so I defected from the legal profession to become a teacher. I think I am still in the process of “growing up”, so I imagine there are a few more career changes in my future! 

8)Where do you get you inspiration for your posts?
Street style, celeb stalking, fashion glossies, runway shows, models, art & architecture, music, and nature. 

9)Blogging 101 advice. How to become successful in the blog world.
Be consistent. Include captivating photos. Give back to your readers by commenting on their blogs and offering exciting contests. Never let advertising overtake your site. Remember why you began blogging in the first place: passion for fashion!

10)How would you rock out on the catwalk?
I would stomp it out like a pro! Dream shows: Sonia Rykiel, because the models are always smiling; Christian Lacroix Couture, because wearing art is such a treat; DSquared2, because the mood is always so hip; Dolce & Gabbana, for the sheer drama and the exquisite corsetry.