One of the most creatively challenging parts of fashion is styling. Creating new looks again and again, for varying circumstances requires an unlimited supply of vision. Meet Katherine Lande. Katherine works as Fashion Editor for Palm Beach Illustrated and on assignment as a stylist and consultant for many projects with her company KL Style Inc. She was also the photo stylist for Rizzoli's Palm Beach Entertaining, with all proceeds benefitting the Children's Home Society. Katherine took time to respond to some questions about the heart of fashion styling.
Palm Beach Illustrated
How did you become a stylist?
In a strange sense I think one is born with a sense of style. Yes, certain things can be taught and learned, and certain elements of it are picked up along the way, but I truly feel like either one has the eye for it or they don't. With that, I got lucky to be in the right place at the right time, and worked very, very hard. I also believe having the outlook that styling is a practice that evolves over time has been instrumental.
Palm Beach Illustrated
How do you see styling as collaborative?
Styling on a photo shoot or with a client is a complete collaboration, and one of the many reason's why I love it. I often say that producing a photo shoot is like putting a jigsaw puzzle together. The stylist is just one piece of the overall vision that everyone on the crew, from the photographer, to the model, and hair and makeup artists are all creating together.
see more behind the scenes at Katherine's Instagram
How do you see styling as guided by an artistic vision? As an art form?
When you deconstruct a particular style or look, its really all about layering, color and texture combinations, balance and overall composition. Every look can speak its own language once its styled. And I've always loved the idea of being part of creating a beautiful picture that speaks a certain message or inspiration. Whether its reality or fantasy, the idea that creating something visual through the art of clothes has always been intriguing to me.
Elle McPhereson for You for The Daily Mail
What are some of the challenges of your work?
When I'm in the position of having to act as producer and stylist on a shoot, balancing the art of business vs creative can get a bit tricky. Plus trying to figure out how to be in two places at one time is always a challenge. Another challenge is being based in a smaller resort town. I try to travel as often as I can which is always extremely helpful with staying inspired and on the cutting edge of what's happening in the fashion industry.
above and below for Palm Beach Charity Register
If you had an unlimited budget and any photographer, what would be this dream shoot?
Right now I'm really being inspired by the work of Guy Bourdin. The budget wouldn't matter… just anything with him!
Instagram Inspiration from The Deux Luxe
Katherine is ever present with social media. She has new website, The Deux Luxe which chronicles her inspirations. She can also be found at Instagram and Twitter. Below, Katherine at Villa de Rothschild in Cap Ferrat.
Thank you Katherine!
