“Make whatever it is you’re wearing, your own”-Devon Windsor
Dev’s track choice:
I have always been curious about how models develop their individual sense of style. Think about it for a second — models are the interconnecting bond that travels through all aspects of the fashion world, at one point or another. They are flown out to meet renowned designers, walk couture house runway shows, interact with premier stylists, pose for established photographers, and chat with the Anna Wintours and Diana Vreelands of our generation. Considering that these select individuals are lucky enough to firsthand experience a great deal of the underlying activities that collectively make up how fashion is presented to today’s consumer, aren’t you curious as to how they are able to create their own unique fashion identity?
This past weekend I reached out to Devon Windsor (IMG), who is not only one of the most sought after models at the moment, but also my peer to provide me with insight regarding her personal sense of style and spending habits. Enjoy!
Fashion Talks
T.K.O: Taking a second to consider your fashion sense during your upbringing in St. Louis, before the lights of Chanel and Dior runways; prior to photogs snapping away on the streets of Milan, pre hailing New York City taxi cabs, and before your television debut during last winter’s Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, how would you say that your fashion sense has evolved over the course of the last year? Has there been a significant change between “Devon Windsor, high school senior from St. Louis” and “Devon Windsor, the professional fashion model”?
D.W: When I was in high school I guess I had some sense of style, but I would say it was more so a reflection of what other girls were wearing, rather then who I was. So when I broke out of the stereotypical Tory Burch and Lilly Pultzer I quickly developed my own sense of style. By being in the shows and seeing the new trends, along with what other models are wearing, you learn to take what the new fashion season brings and then put your own twist on it. In general, I would say I migrate towards a lot of blacks, leather, jeans, and boots. However with summer coming up I am wearing more color and dresses.
T.K.O: Good for you! You can never have too much black. Not only are we both young adults, but we are also fashion enthusiasts, so “the urge to splurge” bites us twice as hard as everyone else. How do you personally decide whether a particular piece is worth investing in and purchasing at the moment, versus later down the road when you have more money saved?
D.W: There are many fashion pieces you can buy that you know will be timeless such as a charming watch or a nice Chanel bag; so for most it is obvious which pieces I will be using for a long time. For the others I try to mix expensive designers pieces with things from Zara, Urban Outfitters or Topshop. Such places have great basics that you can pair with an expensive jacket or something. Personally I attach more importance to having a nice bag, jacket, and shoes — you can look amazing; no one cares where your white t-shirt is from.
T.K.O: I love that logic. Great advice! Ok this is the scenario: it’s nice out, you wake up feeling great, and the laundry is all done; you are going to walk out of the house wearing _____.
D.W: Probably something really simple: shorts, a cool t-shirt, maybe a comfy dress.
T.K.O: I feel that. What has the highest priority on your “shopping wish list” at the moment?
D.W: I really want to invest in a nice watch and also some summer sandals. The whole Birkenstock, “Jesus-looking” sandals are really in at the moment.
T.K.O: Sounds like you are on top of the latest trends. Sandals are definitely making a strong comeback this summer. I could never pull off the sandal look, but you certainly could Devon. Rewinding it back a couple months, you actually caught my attention in last year’s Marie Claire’s “How to Wear It” spread in which you convincingly rocked the latest that higher end streetwear fashion has to offer (Hood by Air sweatshirt and Nike Air Maxes). You have conquered the “rocker grunge” look (standard vintage tee, contrast flannel and black leather jacket), and finally proven that looking “Calvin Klein chic” is effortlessly doable. Would you say that you fluctuate between these various looks on a day-to-day basis, or is there a particular look that appeals to your sense of style the most?
D.W: The leather and vintage look is nice and easy in the colder seasons!
T.K.O: No doubt! You have been around timeless designers, routinely get outfitted by world-class stylists, and mingle amongst fashionable peers; I have to know, what is the best piece of fashion advice that you have come across?
D.W: It’s so un-original, but just make whatever it is you’re wearing, your own.
T.K.O: Golden. What is your favorite store abroad that you wish was here in the U.S? (I hear Colette in Paris is a must-stop!)
D.W: I honestly haven’t had much time to stop and shop when traveling for work so I cannot give the best answer. But the vintage stores and boutiques in Paris and London are amazing!
T.K.O: Treat yourself next time you’re overseas! One of the perks of work requiring you to travel non-stop is that you get to take in the endless fashion statements that the world has to offer. Is there a particular region or designer that inspires you the most? How so?
D.W: I think it is hard to single out one or two designers that completely wrap up the entire seasons trends. Because just like when you dress yourself, you put your own spin on things; it is the same for designers, all doing the same sort of things but making it their own in a certain way.
T.K.O: Now that you’ve mentioned it, I have to agree! Let’s wrap up on a lighter note; I hear you are quite the cook, and an exceptional baker — if Devon Windsor were a food she would be a _____?
D.W: Chocolate chip cookie!
Dev, thank you so much for taking time out of your crazy schedule to chat with me. Keep up the amazing work, and take a vacay or five this summer. Always rooting for ya!
-T.K.O
MCMXCII 