In My Shoes: Kim Hersov
Kim Hersov is an American Editor, Creative Director and Consultant. Raised in California, she studied history and art history at Georgetown University, and worked at American Vogue in New York before moving to London. Kim was Editor at Large at Harper’s Bazaar and Porter Magazine and has consulted for brands including Celine, Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton. She was co-founder and Creative Director for the brand Talitha and is currently working on a vintage-focused concept brand, launching soon. Follow @kimhersov
Tell us a little about you.
I started my career as a Market Assistant and then Associate Editor at American Vogue before making the UK my home, working at Harper’s Bazaar in a variety of styling and editorial roles, including my column - Catwalk to Closet. I went on to Porter Magazine where I had my own video column for The Edit. I am currently launching a vintage-focused lifestyle concept called The Quaintrelle (coming soon). Most importantly, I am a mum of three boys, Alexander, Luke and Aidan, and I have a bonus daughter, Elfie.
How do you start your day?
On a good day I start my morning with meditation followed by a strong cup of coffee – and a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda in a glass of water is another morning ritual. I have also been doing ‘Morning Pages’ (from Julia Cameron’s The Artist's Way) off and on for the past 5 years.
What is your fashion philosophy?
I am a maximalist at heart and probably a bit of a very tidy hoarder so I guess my approach is one of more is more - or of the importance of layering! I also love the idea of ‘shopping in my closet’ and rediscovering and rewearing old pieces.
Can you share your top tip?
I guess to be brave and not to be defined by fashion trends or by a particular style - you can embrace different ways of dressing. I would also say to invest in statement pieces (they tend to have longevity) and also to embrace the idea of shopping from one’s closet; there is so much to rediscover simply by restyling or even altering old pieces.
What inspires you?
Vintage inspires me! I love the individuality and the history of these pieces.
And who inspires you?
Talitha Getty is an obvious icon as she inspired my former brand.
How do you unwind?
I unwind with a glass of red wine (or vodka soda), and our miniature dachshund, Winston, who always makes me smile when returning home after a long day. I have also recently learned to crochet (a lockdown discovery), which I find quite meditative.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow where would it be?
I would return to India! I spent 5 years travelling there regularly when I had Talitha - and I fell in love with the country. I miss it tremendously! And there is so much yet to explore in that magnificent, magical place.
Which shoes do you love this season?
The Rupert Sanderson shoes that I love this season are both the shearling boots and the jewelled slippers. They are first and foremost WARM which is essential! As a Californian I have never fully embraced the winters here (nor the necessity of socks) and I find both these warm and cosy. Flats are also essential as I am constantly walking in my neighbourhood of Notting Hill - for work, errands and the school run. These shoes reflect different aspects of my style and I love them both equally.
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