Designer Dialogue: Nicole Richie
L&T: Why did you become a fashion designer?
Nicole Richie: Fashion has always been a huge part of my life, whether it’s playing dress up with my dad’s costumes, watching my mom get glam-ed up for an event, or creating my own ice-skating costumes for competitions, it’s just something that felt close and natural to me and when the opportunity came, I knew I had to jump at it.
L&T: What obstacles did you face to get where you are today?
Nicole Richie: It’s one thing to love and be passionate about fashion, but it’s another to learn about the business inside and out. It’s not an obstacle exactly but learning about the industry as a whole has opened my eyes to an entirely new experience.
L&T: What was the inspiration behind your latest collection?
Nicole Richie: The Fall 2011 Winter Kate collection was inspired by style icons of the late 60′s/early 70′s, such as Penelope Tree, Peggy Moffitt and Edie Sedgwick. We incorporated a mod twist, while continuing to stay true to the brand’s signature style. Minimalist pieces are paired with kimonos and bed jackets with a hint of Far East influence, a popular and coveted trend of the 70′s, visible in the prints and color palette.
L&T: What is your favorite trend this season? Ever?
Nicole Richie: I’m not really about trends, it’s more about what you love and what feels right and is comfortable.
L&T: Who is your style icon?
Nicole Richie: My mother
L&T: What advice would you give an aspiring fashion designer?
Nicole Richie: Take it one day at a time
L&T: What is your favorite place to go on vacation? Favorite city?
Nicole Richie: Morocco, Thailand, Paris, New York, etc…
L&T: What is your favorite restaurant in New York?
Nicole Richie: Blue Ribbon Sushi
L&T: What is the one item you couldn’t live without?
Nicole Richie: There are too many things!
Nicole Richie is the designer of Winter Kate and House of Harlow 1960.
