CAROLINE VAZZANA

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEXANDRA FOLSTER, CLOSET IMAGES BY: JULIA FEIGUS

Hi Caroline. Tell us a more about yourself as a designer, stylist, author and CEO?

I started my career working in the editorial world at Teen Vogue and InStyle before going out on my own and becoming my own boss. I wrote my book, "Making it in Manhattan," as a guidebook to help others break into the industry. Today, through my social media, I get work with a wide range of brands by lending my unique voice and style. 

How would you describe your evolution as an artist throughout the years?

My style has definitely evolved over the years. I've always loved color and maximalism, but it wasn't until recently that I really found my personal sense of style and became comfortable with who I am as a creative. It's important to realize that life is too short to wear boring clothes and at the end of the day no one is really judging you. Once you realize this it'll make experimenting with fashion so much easier. 

What fashion and styling trends are you inspired and excited about this year?

Thankfully color, sparkle, and maximalism is here to stay! I just got back from Paris fashion week, and we saw so much color on the runway which is always a yes to me.

What are the challenges and the highs that you’ve experienced in your career so far?

Just like any career, working in fashion is a lot of hard work. There’s constant highs and lows, so learning to navigate that flux is really important. Also, it's really easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others which is never good. 

How did you rise above these challenges?

If I'm feeling down sometimes, I need to just take a little break from social media and that is okay. Doing things that spark my creativity like flipping through an old fashion magazine or walking through my favorite neighborhoods in NYC always help me refocus. 

Is there something that you wish more people knew / more people are aware of regarding what you do? (insider secrets/ behind the scenes secrets, etc.)

There's actually a lot of thought and planning that goes on behind the scenes of what you see on social media, ranging from organizing shoots to scouting locations and editing. There are so many hours that go into it that no one ever sees. 

What inspires you?

There's so much that inspires me, but New York City is one of my biggest inspirations. Just walking down the street you see so many stunning buildings and everyone has their own unique sense of style which always inspires me. 

What’s your ultimate goal?

It's so hard to pick just one, but to just be truly happy and to do what I love. I have always wanted to work in the fashion industry since I was a little kid so getting to do what I do now is my biggest dream come true. 

What are your dream projects?

Some of my dream brands to collaborate with are Miu Miu and Gucci, and I would love to work on more design collaborations with brands I love.