The Creatives: An Interview with Christina Tyler

Christina Tyler of Madewell was one of the best shop-keeps around for a brand that has easy cool written all over it! It is my go to source for tees and tops and I absolutely love that they have partnered with Sessun, See by Chloe, H by Hudson and hard to find Attic and Barn that makes the most gorgeous retro patterned silk blouses.  Quick with a smile and spot on fashion advise, I had come to trust her eye for fit and fabric, along with the way she championed the individual in every Madewell gal. Currently working in the Home Department of Urban Outfitters at their Philadelphia corporate offices, I caught up with her recently for a Creatives Post.

What are your predictions for trends in the New Year?

Camo is having a MAJOR resurgence this year, I can feel it already! Army green and canvas jackets have been everywhere, but I think we’re going to see a smattering of modern camo prints on everything from bags to jackets and denim, you name it!

When was the last time you had a fashion epiphany?

I can’t say I have them very often… I just get fashion-excited when fashion week hits and looks come down the runway that I never knew I needed! I mean, 3.1 Philip Lim’s tribute to punk rock 90s vibes? And Dries Van Noten’s light & airy grungey plaids? LOVE!

What is your favorite High brand, low brand? How do you mix high and low?

I’m obsessed with Richard Chai, Philip Lim, Band of Outsiders, and I’m loving the Rochas revival! I mostly shop at Madewell, J. Crew, Free People, and Urban Outfitters, and try to emulate the looks I love most on the runways with what I have. Work with whatcha got, ya know?

What is your go-to uniform for a day of work? The weekend?

I’m lucky enough to work in an environment that has no dress code, so you can always find me in a pair of skinny jeans and biker boots and a few layers on top. Chambray, all the way! 

What is your favorite ILR piece and why?

I love the drape circle & barre drape necklaces… I used to be really into statement jewelry, but I’ve recently discovered an appreciation for all things dainty, and these guys are the right mix of tough/industrial and delicate!

Who are your style icons?

Marina Munoz is the ultimate. She has an impossibly cool style and manages to look super feminine and sexy while living in menswear. Taylor Tomasi Hill is an obvious choice, but I love her bold color choices and silhouettes… and that she can rock some high tops with a tulle Comme des Garcons skirt! I also love Jenna Lyons, Caroline de Maigret, and Ada Kokosar.