Tuesday, May 26, 2009

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. 

25 comments:

MS said...

Great interview! I've been looking for a new brand of skinney jeans that fit fabulously. Can't wait to check them out.

Just became a follower on her blog. I will start checking it out.

Anonymous said...

This is such a fab interview. You asked some great questions. CC is amazing and I read her blog every morning when I wake up! Loved her answers!

xo, Becs

Children of the 90s said...

I love this interview! Can't wait to go check out her blog. Thanks for posting!

Char said...

great interview

Dollface said...

Such a cute idea to interview!! I may do this some post... and gorgeous couture photos!! xxoo

Couture Carrie said...

It looks fab, darling! Thank you!

xoxox,
CC

WendyB said...

Great interview -- I love reading about other people who have had multiple careers.

Laura said...

Underfunded Heiress: Her suggestions for skinny jeans are a must. I am in love with J Brand.

stylewithbenefits: So glad you liked the questions. We had a great time and it shows through. Love your blog!

Dream Sequins said...

Yay. Loved this interview and loved that you traded answers, too! That's fabulous. Love Couture Carrie and it was fun to learn more about her, and also about you! "Trust that anything is possible and that your dreams CAN come true with perseverance." Love it and living it everyday.

Unknown said...

I read your interview in CC..and it is just fabulous! I love the purple scarf one...you made me laugh! BTW you got an award!!

marlynn said...

love it! great interview, great photos. thanks for visiting my blog. love yours & am going to sign up to follow you now!

freeteyme said...

It's always good to learn something new about CC! Loved the gymnast answer and #9!

ChikitaRosemarie said...

lovely interview.. i agree about the east and west style! and i also adore the number.9 answer..

great job cc and laura! :D

adore both of you..

3 Bay B Chicks said...

What a fantastic post exchange. I loved reading both this post and yours on Couture Carrie.

You represent fashion in San Francisco well, my friend! I never leave the house without my oversized sunglasses or my hobo wallet.

-Francesca

~DokterKenny said...

ugh...fashion it all seems so tiring and unending. All a guy needs is a couple pairs of good shoes, jeans, t-shirts, a few nice button ups two good suits and a decent basic tux. :-)

Annie Spandex said...

I've come here from Carrie's! Cool how you swapped interviews :)

Debbie said...

How fun this is! Can't wait to check yours out.

Elizabeth said...

wow! Love the blog and the interview was great. I'm gonna pass the skinny jean info to my daughter. I've been telling her for 6 months they're 'out' wishful thinking on my part.

Anonymous said...

Woo woo for Carrie- I was like "oh my goodness she is interviewing my friend" that is really uber cool--

Excellent interview, I like the variety you have on here.

MaryRC said...

what a chic chick, i may have to stalk her. sienna miller is very very beautiful, i did her makeup and hair a few times back in the old days. sweet girl too.

Eda said...

Great interview!I love Carrie's blog.

chauss said...

cc rocks!!! great interview . :)

William Street Store said...

This was a great interview and I loved your answers!

I am glad you found me as now I can see your gorgeous blog! xxx

Gabbi said...

Wonderful interview dear Laura, I loved learning more about CC and also loved reading your interview on her blog. I loved both of your cat walk answers... xo

ps. really want those Silence & Noise bleach white twig jeans!!

jewseyk said...

i love your blog i especially. like your topic on east coast vs west coast fashion i defiantly agree I'm moving out west in 3 weeks I'm born and raised on the east coast now I'm going to be a west coast girl but i want keep my east coast style lets see maybe ill start some trends newcoast style hmmm ideas ideas ....<3