How much of a role model is your mother for you when it comes to fashion and makeup?
Ivy: One of the greatest, if not the greatest. I think sometimes we maybe have a little different taste in style. But she, like institutional knowledge and fashion, is so useful. And also that she exudes confidence in the closet. You know, it’s her happy place too. This allows me to feel more confident not only in myself, but also in the way I express my gender through clothing.
Carlo, what is your story? How long have you been involved in fashion?
Carla: Holy goodness. I have been an artisan clothing designer all my adult life and did that for about 20 years and then transitioned into jewelry design. Once my kids came along, I couldn’t regularly go to Asia to check clothes. So it kind of took off.
And yes, I have always understood that I can express myself without words through my wardrobe. I think there’s a parallel between Carrie [of “Sex and the City”] and I manifested: We both understand the power of nonverbal communication. And you know, I’m a bit of a chameleon at this. One day I can gravitate towards a very minimalistic, clean look and the next I can go full frills and bows. I will not box myself. It’s the way I express myself.
Carlo, it’s probably fair to say that your closet doesn’t look like the closets of most of our listeners. What would you like to share with the average Texan about fashion?
Carla: I think I would like to share that you have to listen to your gut. And the best way to do that, if you’re interested in fashion, is to look at what’s happening on the runways – but don’t use it as a doctrine. Use your own, you know, weather vane instead. If you don’t like something, don’t force yourself into it just because you think everyone else is wearing it. If something really feels right to you, I give every woman permission to buy the same pair of pants in 10 colors if you feel good about it.
Ivy, as you continue to explore fashion, what do you think we can expect from you that is a little different than your mom?
Ivy: That’s a really good question. I honestly think my mom knows more about styling than I do. So I’m kind of in a phase where I’m figuring out what really suits me in terms of my personal style. I think I’m just into more exploration and I hope to see my style evolve into a more defined aesthetic over the next few years, if that makes sense. But honestly, my mom really is a role model and proves that you really don’t need to define yourself in one particular thing. You know, one day you can wear patterns and the next day just solid colors.
Carla: Yeah. And you know what else, Ivy? You never stop growing, so you never feel pressured to have a defined style.