Nicole Richie has come a long way since her days as Paris Hilton’s sidekick on the reality show The Simple Life. Since then, Richie, daughter of music icon Lionel, has forged her own path, establishing herself not only as a fashion force to be reckoned with on the red carpets, but in the design realm, too.
Nicole Richie’s first line, House of Harlow 1960, made its debut in 2009 with a collection of bold statement-making jewelry pieces, large paparazzi-proof sunglasses and exotic skin bags and shoes. In 2010, her more ethereal line, Winter Kate, followed in its footsteps. One year later, the diminutive mother of two made a triumphant return to television as a judge for both seasons of NBC’s reality show Fashion Star. This spring, she officially launches House of Harlow 1960’s ready-to-wear line, which previously appeared in the form of a capsule collection. “The collection really is reflective of the way I like to dress,” explains the L.A. native. “It’s relaxed but with a lot of detail-oriented design elements, and it’s very easy to wear. There’s a carefree vibe that I love, especially for spring/summer dressing.” Wallets at the ready! —Lesley McKenzie
Why did you decide to branch into clothing for House of Harlow?
We have such loyal fans for the brand’s accessories, so it felt like the natural next step to offer ready-to-wear. We wanted to tell the full story of the brand by offering something to pair back to the accessories, for a complete head-to-toe look.
From where do you draw your design influences?
For the debut spring/summer 2014 collection, we were very much influenced by the eclectic European style of the 1920s, and the 1960s and ‘70s. So there’s a bit of a vintage feel that makes the styles feel classic and timeless.
What will we see you wearing from the spring collection?
Definitely the silk pieces. There is a great pair of silk overalls that I can’t wait to throw on. I love the cropped tanks, too—they’re clean and simple with a tailored, structured design.
How much of a departure is this line from Winter Kate?
This line has its own personality entirely, because we’ve taken the aesthetic that we’ve honed for our House of Harlow 1960 accessories and translated that to the clothing. It has a distinct femininity but is also decidedly contemporary with more stylized and utilitarian pieces. And we’re excited that we can offer this level of design at a more accessible price point—everything in the collection ranges from $60 to $300.
How would you describe the line’s aesthetic?
Free-spirited, contemporary and romantic.
When can we expect to see a kids line?
Hopefully soon. I’d love to keep growing the line to incorporate other categories. You’ll just have to stay tuned!
Who do you consider your personal style icon?
My mother; she was fearless in her fashion choices.
What is your fashion mantra?
Take risks.
What are some of the stores you like to shop at in Los Angeles?
Barneys, and for vintage finds, I love Decades.
Where do you like to get pampered on a day off?
The Argyle at Sunset Tower Hotel.
I like their hot stone massage.
Feb 11, 2014 – Where LA
