Who among us does not want to look
like a real Parisian? They are born with an intrinsic sense of style, and it’s
all so effortless. One of our favorite lines, Loup, captures that chic factor
that French girls do so well. The collections are like incredibly cool cheat
sheets to mastering that effortless, fashion-forward but trend-transcending
look. Having these pieces in your wardrobe means an easy-breezy getting ready
routine: just wake up, slip into one of these ensembles, and boom. We talked to
Loup’s designer, Danielle Ribner, about the brand’s blend of tomboyish and feminine,
fashionable and classic, stylish and low-key.
Sobbing on Fifth: Loup adapts
quintessential French chic for the American girl – what about French style do
you find so appealing?
Danielle Ribner: There's something
effortlessly chic about French style that feels timeless and simple yet
powerful. They're typically really
great at taking clothes and making them feel really personal, and less trend
driven. And I love how they make masculine items feel really feminine as well.
SOF:
What elements of French style do you think the American girl can adapt and work
into her routine? Any style advice?
DR: I would say less is more when it comes
to adapting French style to the American girl, and that’s what we try to do at
Loup. Pairing a great dress with flats and just a bright red lip is an easy way
to get that chic look in the Spring. Or if you’re wearing a more casual t-shirt and
pants look, throw on a bandana scarf and a messy bun. I also think wearing a
more masculine, losoer jacket over a feminine look is a great way to get that
effortless look. I think it’s all about keeping it simple and then
adding one or two personal touches, and never trying too hard.
SOF:
Who would you say is your ultimate style icon?
DR: Jane Birkin is a huge influence at
Loup, but Charlotte Rampling, Anjelica Houston and Lauren Hutton are also so
endlessly iconic.
SOF:
Are there any women – French, American or from anywhere in the world – that you
think exude that quintessential look effortlessly?
DR: Alexa Chung has seemingly effortless
style and really shows her personality through her looks. I love seeing what
Kate Bosworth wears, and I think she really personifies an easy American style.
I also really love how artist Ana Kras presents herself.
SOF:
Who is the “Loup girl” – who do you have in mind when you design?
DR: When I design, I try to create clothes
for the modern girl who goes out and works everyday, but also likes to be
creative and enjoys her free time, and of course loves the same French icons
and vintage influences that inspire Loup. I try to give the Loup girl clothing
they may love to find in a vintage store, but made to work in their modern
lifestyle.
SOF:
Is there anything or anywhere that inspires you from collection to collection
beyond the theme of Parisian style?
DR: Oh yes, tons! I watch old movies all
the time and that gives me a lot of inspiration. I love going to the galleries
in NYC and seeing new and challenging art. I also just love watching women
walking around New York, they are the ultimate inspiration.
SOF:
If you could be anywhere in France right now – a café, a gallery, a boutique, a
spa, anything – where would it be?
DR: I would absolutely love to be at a cafe
in Paris right now, drinking a coffee, eating a croissant and people watching
all afternoon.
SOF:
A question we always ask on SOF: What is the last thing you bought?
DR: The last thing I bought was a vintage
red and navy blue striped t-shirt at Assembly in NYC. I'm pretty obsessed with
stripes and there's basically no way I can say no to a vintage striped t-shirt.
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