July 16, 2007
I've adored fashion writer and downtown style icon Lynn Yaeger for years. I finally nailed her down for an interview. Enjoy.
Describe your look?
It’s really an array of different influences: backstage at the ballet, 1920s flapper, Victorian farm girl, overgrown babydoll, etc.
I was devastated at the loss of Isabella Blow. Did you know her and did you consider her a kindred spirit?
Alas I didn’t know her, but of course I always considered her a kindred spirit and greatly admired her. There are so few of us who dress up every day.
What designer under the radar will be a household name sooner than later?
I have no idea, I'm terrible at that sort of thing
When you wrote “truly wacky style doesn't date” in the NY Times Style Magazine I felt you were speaking directly to me. Have you always had a wacky style?
Yes always wacky, but it has changed a bit over the years—I used to wear vintage almost exclusively, and now my clothes are all new.
Did you ever not stand out in a crowd?
I hope not.
Are you still considered a fashion outsider or have the A-list labels caught on to your influence?
Well I do see some of my hallmarks show up on the runways from time to time, but I’m still definitely an outsider. You’d be shocked if I told you all the things I don’t get invited to.
Who do you think is underrated in the design world? Dare to say who’s overrated?
I actually think Vivienne Westwood has never really gotten the credit she deserves.
You’ve said in past interviews you return many things you buy. What was the last thing you took back?
Oh my God, I have been on a massive buying-and-returning spree at Barneys this season. Already bought and returned a certain Dries Van Noten dress twice, am thinking of buying it a third time…
You once stopped me at a party to tell me you loved my outfit (Miu Miu graphic shorts, metallic blue Versace sneakers). It made my night. Do you constantly find personal style you admire on the streets of NYC?
I wish I found more. New Yorkers are so tame, it’s depressing.
What’s your key to happiness?
At the risk of sounding like the rat in Ratatouille—be yourself! An artist can come from anywhere!
Comments (1)
congrats on the interview Presh! YOU my darling, are a true fashion icon!!
Posted by Presh | July 17, 2007 5:37 PM
Posted on July 17, 2007 17:37