It’s been some time since we’ve featured an ‘It Girl’ here on Third Looks. In case you haven’t seen the other It Girl features, I’ll recap what the label means to me. These are girls who are are free-thinking, charismatic and stylish. These are the girls the world needs more of; the ones that eventually be be at the top of their respective fields.
With that out of the way, I’d like to introduce you to Rachel Hodin. She’s a New York native who grew up in the heart of Manhattan. The first time I met her Rachel was wearing 6″ Wheat Timberland Boots and pulling them off perfectly; a good start to any friendship. Rachel’s warm presence is balanced by a healthy dose of cynicism, in other words she’ll politely cut through the bullshit. Rachel is extremely well read AND will show up to your function in an effortlessly fashionable ensemble. What more can you really ask for out of friends in this city?
Rachel is currently a freelance writer for the The Local (New York Times Blog). You can read her very first published book review HERE.
A special thanks goes to Rebekah Seok for photographing this feature.
Look 1
Gap Denim Jacket
Ekhaus Latta pink fuzzy irrationally expensive cropped top [Ed.Note Rachel’s Description]
Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony black and white Checkered Pants
Tsumori Chisato socks
Vintage Gucci loafers
Look 2
Kenzo striped dress
Acne Denim Jacket
Tsumori Chisato socks
Vintage Gucci loafers
What sparked your initial interest in clothes and fashion?
I guess it all started with Clueless. Traveling with my family at a young age–to paris and london–definitely helped as well.
I’ve never really been interested in fashion, per se, more so just looking good. I went to college in DC and that definitely inspired me, though in a reverse sort of way. i guess i was inspired to look good by all of the terribly and monotonously dressed people in DC. (hope I don’t offend anyone)
You’re able to really mix designer items with vintage items and make it look very seamless. It’s a pretty delicate balance so how do you make it work?
I don’t tend to focus on the actual designer–just the piece at hand. If I like it, then I’ll wear it. Some of the pieces I like end up being designer, some end up being vintage. Most of my purchases are on impulse; I can’t seem to delay gratification.
Look 3
Rag and Bone Red Jeans
American Apparel cropped black top
Jimmy’s vintage Dior Monsieur bomber
Timberland Boots
How do you think growing up in New York has influenced your style?
I think the city’s diversity and freedom of expression (encouraged by my parents) influenced me the most. I would find a “trend”–or my idea of one–and cling onto it for dear life. I became obsessed with the color neon green and made sure that every subsequent clothing purchase for the next year was of that hue.
Probably my biggest fashion influence growing up in the city were my best friends’ moms. Seriously, it’s an untapped fashion resource in this city.
I’ve been exposed to high fashion since I was very young. I’ve grown up with a ton of privileged kids and most of all what i’ve learned is that privilege does not amount to style.
Look 4
Vintage Rifat Ozbek Dress
Acne Leather Jacket w/ Detachable shearling Collar
Balenciaga white shoes
When you put together an outfit is there an you generally start from? (ie a jacket, shirt, jeans or shoes?)
Not to toot my own horn or anything, but I’ve recently amassed a dope collection of pants, so lately that’s where I’ve been starting.
What are some of your favorite places to shop in the city?
Narnia, Assembly NY, Brooklyn Flea, Edith Machinist, Opening Ceremony
Who’s style do you admire and look up to?
Don’t really look up to anyone’s style in particular. I admire people who dress for themselves, who incorporate their culture and background into their sartorial choices and, of course, my friends’ styles.
Be sure to follow Rachel on Twitteror visit her on the floor of Opening Ceremony in Soho. Rachel covers book readings and signings at the Greenlight Bookstore and you can read her work on The Local.
Words by Rocky Li
Photography by Rebekah Seok
Styling assistance by Jimmy Jimeno
