Native New Yorkers and fashion designers Larissa Muehleder, Heart Roberts and Nia Thomas are winning this year and we love to see it! As part of the Black & Positively Golden (B&PG) Change of Fashion program they are getting funding and major mentorship with fashion executives for their craft. During NYFW they walked some of their unique designs in McDonald’s “House of Arches” Fashion Show.
Larissa Muehleder, is from Nigeria and raised in Brooklyn, her vibrant heritage is reflected in her designs. Fellow Brooklynite Heart Roberts brings alternative and grungy fashion to the forefront. Nia Thomas might be born and bred in NYC but her fashion is all about escaping to that luxurious oasis with her resort-wear!
We don’t like to brag, just kidding yes we do, NYC is one of the major fashion capitals and these three New York natives prove it! Check out our interview below where we get their style scoops, where to shop and how the city has impacted their creativity.
How would you describe NYC style?
Larissa Muehelder: In New York, you’re either an over the top, best dressed, statement maker, or your style is giving “Please don’t look at me. I’ve been working all day.” There’s no in between.
Heart Roberts: My NYC style is very quintessential New York, mixed with a lot of grunge/punk influences. Lots of fitted caps and baggy jeans alongside distressed hoodies and denim paired with a gigantic puffer coat. I just love to look like a mixture of things you have seen before with some never before seen pieces.
Nia Thomas: My NYC style leans toward the chic, with a palette of darker hues punctuated by intriguing accessories. I’m drawn to the bold statement of chunky jewelry, especially pieces with organic forms. And, of course, comfortable footwear is essential since I’m always on the go.
How has growing up in NYC impacted your designs/how you think about style?
LM: NYC is a city of main characters. Living here and growing up here has shown me that as long as YOU feel confident in what you are wearing, you are never wrong. With this mindset I’m able to create freely and allow my intuition to guide me in creating new trends.
New York is a city that is so incredibly expensive but the kids here find a way to take the cheapest clothes and make them their own fashion statements. In High School I was known for wearing mismatching Nike dunks and carrying a spray painted gold duffle bag that had speakers built into it, which I used as a school bag and nobody could ever tell me I didn’t look fly. We use our personal style to relate to one another and the confidence is palpable no matter what brand or lack of brand you’re wearing. Even if you don’t like someone’s fit, you can’t convince them they didn’t slay!
HR: Growing up in NYC has incredibly impacted my style, just solely because the street style and creativity in this city is off the charts. Seeing the looks people would put together just to run some errands or head into Soho was super inspiring to see as a teenager.
I would pay a lot of attention to what I was seeing around me, what my friends would put together and I would put my own personal spins on classic NY looks. Just watching people step out of their comfort zone to put together a great look regardless of how freezing it was, was super inspiring!
NT: Growing up in NYC instilled in me a deep appreciation for originality and the courage to experiment fearlessly. This city has been my canvas, allowing me to explore countless style personas, from punk to preppy to a 60s-inspired flower child. There’s a unique sense of safety here that empowers you to push boundaries.
What is your favorite shop (boutique/thrift etc). in NYC and why?
LM: 3NY – they were one of my first ever stockists and always support new brands who push the creative envelope. The owner, Sam Desner, has an amazing eye for new talent and I always find my statement coat for the year there.
HR: Some of my favorite boutiques/thrift stores in the city are Beacons Closet, Crossroads, and L train Vintage. I source a lot of my materials from these stores as I am an upcycler, so as I am shopping for materials I’m also shopping for my personal closet and these thrift stores you will find some of the best second hand pieces in the city for a great price!
NT: For unique finds, I adore DUO NYC in the East Village for their curated selection of vintage shoes and bags. Ellen Ludlow 123 in the LES is a treasure trove of authentic vintage apparel, all sourced right here in the city. For fine jewelry, Bernard James in Greenpoint, Brooklyn is a must-visit, and Kalimera in East Williamsburg offers a stunning array of vintage silk slip dresses.
In terms of style and fashion, is there anything you wish you’d see more of in NYC?
LM: NYC gives you everything you need. What more could you ask for? I’d love more places to wear our style out to, that’s all. You can’t have too many rooftop bars.
HR: In NYC I would love for more people to take risks with your looks and fashion and don’t rely on labels to make your looks extraordinary. Don’t be scared to step outside the box and wear different brands that you haven’t heard or seen before and just be super open minded when it comes to fashion.
NT: I believe that with a little exploration, you can find anything you desire in New York City.
All images by Photo by Greg Kessler.