The bright, eccentric New Zealander consistently outpaces the zeitgeist.
Karen Walker and husband, Mikhail Gherman, are not only partners in life but also in steering her eponymous label. Don’t expect the duo to follow prescribed directions, they’re just fine relying on their internal GPS to navigate.
Firstly, they are pointedly anti-brand, you won’t find ‘KAREN WALKER’ emblazoned on her ever-popular sunglasses. Their DIY advertising aesthetic, despite being a cost-cutting measure, has enthralled instagram. If it seems like they can do no wrong, it is clear that clever partnerships and the ability to intuit the next big thing are the key to the label’s success.
At NYFW Karen Walker showcased what we can call art chic—a look tinged with retro nostalgia, albeit with a singular chic touch that renders even red plaid fresh. The slightly over-sized proportions and ladylike silhouettes edged up to masculine cuts, keeping it interesting. It’s a compelling collection.
A NYFW veteran, Karen Walker the label, has a bigger girl brigade than Taylor Swift with the likes of Charlize Theron, Anne Hathaway, Alexa Chung, Christina Hendricks, Lorde, Rihanna, and Lena Dunham making up a solid celebrity fan base.
Images @Dan Lecca for Karen Walker