DORÉ

A single Google search of Ilkin Kurt could build an entire mood board. Her style is endlessly inspiring in it’s ability to be both spontaneous and “on brand.” We’ve featured Ilkin once before on the streets of Sydney but when she dropped by New York, we couldn’t help but expand a bit on our fashion crush and ask her to show us a few more looks. Read on to find out how this buyer shapes her style.

Describe your style in 3 words.
I don’t have 3 words to describe my style. I can only say it is very experimental and impulsive. It really depends on my mood and the weather.

What is your ideal outfit or uniform to wear every day?
A classic throw-on dress or shirt/jean combo. I think any woman can look elegant, simple, yet very attractive in a good cut shirt and pants.

Who are your style icons?
I don’t have any style icons, but I really admire/respect a few names… Loulou de la Falaise and Elsa Peretti for their unstudied style and pure approach to life. I have to say I always get inspired by pretty much every picture of Sade and Grace Jones. They are the power houses!

As a buyer and brand consultant, do you approach dressing yourself with that same refined eye? Or do you allow yourself a bit more freedom when shopping for yourself?
Dressing yourself aligns with your mindset. When you buy for a store your priority is the store’s vision aligning with customer’s need and want. Surely you can feel a buyer’s touch and vision as the whole process involves educating customers too.

In terms of a refined eye, I’m a good vintage collector. I guess it comes from my childhood. These days my only shopping destinations are the vintage stores where I can find an amazing Mugler jacket or 70’s/80’s YSL or 90’s Prada. I can go WILD!

I was shocked to hear that your red boots were from Zara. What are your tips and tricks for mixing high to low brands?
I know, everyone kept asking me about those boots during NYFW and had the same reaction. I guess people expect you to wear some trendy high-end labels and they get shock with the reality. I packed 2 boots for NY; these guys and black Alaia’s. It is hard to give general tips as everyone has a different body type and approach to fashion. I can only say if you like something don’t worry about what other people will think about your choices, go with your guts: ‘Why not?’