INSPIRATIONAL TAYLOR WOMEN - INTRODUCING KIRSTEN NAGEL #09
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We have long admired Kirsten Nagel for her professional work ethic, vibrant and bubbly personality and her innate sense of style. We recently sat down with her to catch up and hear about why she's such a fan of the taylor brand.
Tell us a little about you?
I’m a Marketing and Sales Manager in my mid-twenties, living and loving life in Wellington. I feel so grateful to work in my dream job at Yu Mei alongside strong and inspiring women (and men), and the opportunities I have to travel the world telling our story.
How would you describe your signature style and what does it mean to you?
In short, my signature style is masculine and anything black. I like classic shapes and quality fabrics, always with a focus on tailoring. With a largely-monochrome wardrobe, layering different textures is important. I love playing with proportions and wear an oversized blazer with slim pants and a crisp shirt layered with my favourite taylor undone mesh tunics. I always go for two-piece suits that I can wear together or as separates because the endless pairing possibilities prove they’re invaluable wardrobe investments and I also love the look of a power suit with sneakers.
Wearing classic tailored pieces and masculine shapes makes me feel powerful and confident - on days when I suffer from crippling Imposter Syndrome, donning an oversized blazer is like a suit of armour that reminds me I can achieve whatever I set my mind to, with the right attitude.
Where do you look to for style inspiration?
A few of my favourite instagram ‘influencers’ are Danish natives Josefine Haaning-Jensen and Sophia Roe who always look understatedly stylish. My job also informs what I look for - I’ll always have the next season’s colours, shapes and leathers in my mind.
A blogger I’ve been following for years, Jane Aldridge, has curated an enviable melange of vintage and designer pieces and isn’t afraid to layer huge tulle skirts or quirky oversized jewellery. Though her style does not speak to my own minimalist sensibilities, I love that she’s not afraid to take risks and wear what she feels good in, rather than what’s ‘current.’
What draws you to the taylor aesthetic?
From my experience in working in the fashion industry, it’s not easy to create a brand that appeals seamlessly to a wide age demographic, so I admire the timeless and ageless aesthetic of taylor. My Mum and I can borrow from each others’ wardrobes, which is probably my favourite aspect! We’re always excited when the other gets a new taylor piece, as it’s an addition to both of our collections. This also speaks to our shared goal of becoming more conscious consumers: I’m looking to consume only the minimum of what I need, to build a considered wardrobe of quality pieces that will stand the test of time. And I love that taylor is made in New Zealand! Coupled with the timeless/ageless aesthetic, I feel that taylor is ahead of the curve for rejecting trends in favour of a long-term approach to dressing.
What is your favourite thing about shopping at taylor Wellington?
The service is second-to-none. I love that Renee and Liv recognise my Mum and I and even remember our previous purchases, so they can give expert advice on how to pair new season pieces with those in our existing repertoire. They always have great styling advice and will suggest trying pieces I never would have considered, yet soon become wardrobe staples.
Outside of work, what are you passionate about?
I love cooking and browsing recipe books for inspiration. When eating out, my favourite spots are Nightflower for bespoke cocktails and the most welcoming service, Rita for a special-occasion dinner, and Viva Mexico for the best Mexican in town.
Where would we find you on the weekend?
Walking through the Botanic Gardens, up Mount Victoria or Central Park - a nighttime trip to see the glow worms is so romantic. Planning - I love making lists (and the illusion of organisation they exude), setting goals and planning meals for the week ahead. Self care Sundays - curled up on the couch with a book and my dog Alfie perched sweetly on my lap.
What has you excited from AW20 motion, space & form?
I love Joel Shapiro’s work so was excited to see his forms as a reference point for the collection. The colour palette is great, I’m excited to add some colour to my wardrobe and this collection feels like the perfect starting point. I’ll be adding a pair of ivory Attained Pants and the mesh long sleeves in every colour to my wardrobe this season.
To see more of Joel's work and the inspiration for our latest collection click here.
