Photos by Chloe Horseman

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in a suburban town in New Jersey. Honestly, I had a lovely childhood and developed my appreciation of Autumn there because I was surrounded by trees and greenery always. It could get kind of boring, as all suburban towns do, which is why I think I thrive off the New York City energy so much.

How did you first get into fashion? What drew you to it originally?

I was always interested in fashion—I would always dress up for school (yes, I was that girl) and would constantly be on Tumblr searching for new fashion inspiration. I was always drawn to fashion because it was creatively freeing—you could reflect your mood or your personality in whatever outfit you wore that day. It can truly be a way to artistically express yourself.

Where did you learn photography and modelling?

I have practiced photography for years…I never had lessons or went to classes, I sort of just threw myself into it. Same with modelling. I am so used to “modelling” for my own photos that it is something that I am comfortable with now, though it took a while for me to be okay with it. It is all about practice and patience. I am still most definitely an amateur photographer, but experimenting can teach you so many things about photography. Just doing something with passion and an open mind is the first step to being successful at it.

Who are some of your favourite designers and why?

I loved, and still love, old Céline and now currently admire LOEWE, Acne Studios, Totême, Max Mara, Jacquemus, and Khaite, because they all are unique and creative yet have a timeless quality to them. I will forever admire Phoebe Philo for her work at Céline because she created such elegant pieces that are meant for the modern-day business and fashion woman. The pieces are different but you could still wear them years from now and have them be a staple in your wardrobe forever.

What are some of your wardrobe staples?

My wardrobe staples include a camel coat, black pointy boots, a medium-washed pair of denim, white sneakers, a navy turtleneck, a white t-shirt, a black leather jacket, loafers, a little black dress, a classic bag, a pair of Manolos, and Wolf Circus jewels of course.

How would you define your personal brand?

I truly don’t know if one specific word could describe my style, but I could sum it up as this—neutral, minimal, classic, and a bit European influenced. I love the simplicity of Scandinavian and French dressing, so I try to mimic that in my own style, while adding some New York business sort of vibe. I wish I could categorize it in a certain way or with a certain word but it’s difficult!

What made you want to start your blog NYC Bambi?

I actually never set out to be a blogger—I didn’t know that I could have it as my job until three years in. I started my own personal Tumblr to document the photos I took, as a sort of personal photo diary, and then the photos started getting noticed and a lot of people asking for fashion advice came my way. I loved talking to everyone and building a sort of community. Then Instagram became a big thing and I started my own account for fashion on there. Brands started reaching out to me, I moved to New York, and that is when “NYCBambi” was born. It all happened naturally and I am so glad it did, because it made me fall in love with fashion, photography, and writing. Now I couldn’t really picture myself doing anything else, and I am so lucky to have a career out of a job that I love so much.

What do you turn to for inspiration when you're experiencing a creative block?

I started on Tumblr and it is still my go-to for inspiration when I am in a funk. I also love Pinterest to create mood boards. Getting out, traveling, and just appreciating the little things always works too. Sometimes I gather the most inspiration just by taking a walk on the Upper East Side or sitting at a coffee shop.

 

What are some things that you know now that you wish you knew when you started?

I wish I knew that when you really push yourself and pour extra time and effort into a project, it reflects and makes your work so much better. I also wish I told myself to stop setting un-needed pressures on my shoulders. I wish I could tell myself that I would make it work and everything would be more than okay, and to surround myself with people that care with real friendships.

What would you like to see yourself doing in 5 years?

I hope that in 5 years I am still working in fashion and on Instagram, but that I have more creative power where I can create content for brands or assist styling on shoots. I want to be behind the lens a bit more, and not only focus on my own work. I hope to still be traveling consistently, with an apartment in New York City with my man and a dog, and just being happy creating.

What would you do, see or learn if you had more time?

I wish that I could travel the world and see every single little place that exists. I think there is so much endless beauty, inspiration, and knowledge that can come with traveling. I would also love to constantly be learning whether it be in school, an online class, or seminar. Though I am still in school with one more year left and can’t wait to graduate because it will give me more time to work on what I am passionate about, I love learning new things in all subjects. I wish I had the extra time to get a master’s degree in business or writing… maybe down the road…

How do you currently like to spend your free time?

Things have been so manic and so physically demanding lately, as I walk all over New York City for meetings and photoshoots, I love just winding down with Adam and having a class of wine and some cheese at a cozy restaurant. My favorite thing is to cuddle up in bed or on the couch with him and watch a movie. We will also stroll through art museums or our favorite parts of New York too. Having nowhere to be, no deadlines, or no emails to answer is pure bliss for me, since that is what my life consists of, so anytime I can just freely wander is how I love to spend my free time.

What’s your favourite colour to wear?

CAMEL!