New York State of Mind

REBECCA MINKOFF

Author, Cofounder Female Founder Collective, and Fashion Designer

NEW YORK, NY

Rebecca Minkoff was 18 years old when she moved to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming a fashion designer. Spoiler alert...it worked out. Today, Rebecca is a world-renowned fashion designer, author, Superwomen podcast host, cofounder of the Female Founder Collective, empowerment specialist, and proud mother. Her fearlessly true-to-self approach to fashion and interior design inspires millions of her fans around the world to express who they are and be decisive in what they love and stand for in life.

In our recent Q&A with Rebecca, she shared how to make bold and smart design choices by trusting your instincts. It’s time we all channel our inner Rebecca Minkoff and go for it.

K: Rebecca, how does the design of spaces in your home help you be a better, stronger, more creative person?

R: Design in my home is incredibly important and linked to my mood. With my design partner for the space, Steph Gaelick Designs, we created a home that truly reflects my aesthetic, relaxes me, inspires me and, as my refuge from the city, gives me a sense of calm and serenity. For me, the kitchen is that serene space that opens up to the living and dining areas. I love being able to look out from the kitchen island and be present with my family and guests.

K: We enjoy seeing your Instagram posts that show fashion complementing interiors. In your opinion, how do fashion and interior design relate and influence each other?

R: Fashion and interiors are incredibly linked—just as music and fashion or food and fashion, maybe more so! I think that smart design, creating spaces that are authentic to your personal style and usage of the space, can inform and inspire creativity. It certainly does for me. My home is the backdrop for much of my imagery, so having a space that reflects me is integral to my creative process.

K: What would you say to followers out there “liking” pictures of bold, vibrant spaces but who are a little hesitant to make it happen in their homes?

R: I always say take the risk! Buy something that makes you just a little bit uncomfortable. Notably, that will always be what you get complimented on the most.

K: How do KOHLER finishes like Matte Black and Vibrant® Brushed Moderne Brass speak to you and your personal style?

R: Hardware has always been one of the standout features of my brand, often known for its dog clips, studs, and zippers. When selecting my finishes, I want to choose ones that are reminiscent of my best-selling finishes on my bags. Matte Black is one of my best-selling hardware colors and KOHLER Vibrant Brushed Moderne Brass is an ode to the first dog clips that were on all of my bags. In my home, choosing something like brass or black for a faucet finish might seem bold, but it’s really a versatile choice. You can do so much around it to make the sink, vanity, or bath space stand out or seamlessly blend.

K: How does your city and community impact your design choices?

R: I think there are many trends that occur regionally and locally that, when working with local creative designers, you can tap into in a way that can make your home more unique and special. As our homes have become our living/working spaces, we must make them more creative and inspiring. The more we do that, the happier and more creative we will be!