Last month’s “Recessionista Fashionista” article had many of you buzzing and emailing me requesting more budget friendly fashion tips.
By Maria A. Pardalis
Although I adore haute couture and know how to shop while remaining recession friendly, I am not an expert. That is why I decided to feature Esther Nash, an artsy fashion designer who is signed with Ikon Model Management’s Celebrity Division and has her very own “Recession Collection” clothing line. Esther and her designs have been featured in over 300 publications nationally and internationally. She designs jewelry, sportswear, rock star glam wear, resort wear, swim wear, hats and more.
I was intrigued to learn that she is Greek-American and not only designs clothing but also struts down the catwalk in them. Esther’s designs are very futuristic, heavily textured and colorful. I had the opportunity to interview Esther to discuss her career and frugal fashion tips.
MAP: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, who is Esther Nash?
EN: A 4th generation New Yorker known as a celebrity fashion expert, socialite, fashion host, and model.
MAP: You mentioned that you are part Greek, however you are identified as only being “Jewish and a Latina” in the media. Why have you never acknowledged being Greek?
EN: My parents divorced when I was very young and I was raised by my mother. I was never told that I am half Greek. I later learned that my father is 100% Greek from Athens, where he resides to this day.
MAP: Why should we feature you in NEO?
EN: Greek society has heavily contributed to culture and the arts and NEO’s readers will be very proud to have me as one of their representatives. I have received awards and scholarships from the National Academy of Design and NYC Art Students League. I am proud to say that I graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology and took part in the Cooper Union Portfolio intensive summer program.
MAP: What inspired you to become a fashion designer?
EN: I love art, beauty, style, fashion and color. I already had two art gallery presentations in SoHo and in Chelsea of my fashion art work. I am planning on a third Fashion Art Presentation for 2010-2011. Expect an invite!
MAP: Who is your favorite designer and why?
EN: Betsey Johnson, Alexander McQueen, and Stella McCartney. They are all individuals and think outside the box just like I do.
MAP: Tell us about your fashion mantra.
EN: My fashion mantra is: “Be seen and be remembered! Make the impression of a lifetime the first time with your Esther Nash design. Sparkle and shine like the superstar that you are!”
MAP: Your clothing line Babydoll appeared in Sex in the City, how did you manage that?
EN: That is top secret. I will give you a hint, when you are talented they find you. My designs have also been seen on Playboy TV, MTV, VH1, Gossip Girl and Ugly Betty.
MAP: What advice can you give to other Greek-Americans that wish to take a similar career path to yours?
EN: Never let go of your dreams or you will always look back in regret. If you have to work 5 minimal jobs at a time to make your dream a reality, then do it. Do not be afraid of being alone, you must sacrifice and be disciplined if you want to accomplish greatness. You may have to say goodbye to friends, family and significant others.You can’t have everything so you must choose wisely.
MAP: Have you ever participated in Fashion Week?
EN: Absolutely! I even walked down the runway for Anna Wintour in one of my shows. I recently participated in “The Chocolate”, a well known charity that selects designers and pastry chefs to create a fashion design 60% chocolate and 40% fabric.
MAP: What are you working on now? You have accomplished so much at such a young age, what is next?
EN: Showing my new line of Rock Star Glam Wear, preparing for my role as a fashion host for TV, meeting with film directors, finishing my autobiography and first line of Fashion Self Help books. I am also raising funds for my Not- for- profit organization (Art Gallery for Youth). My PR gal Shelly and IKON Model Management have huge plans for me on becoming a house hold name. I am looking forward to my follow up interview with NEO to share more.
Esther’s Top 5 Frugal Fashion Tips
1. Raid your mother’s and grandmother’s closet!
What is family for if they can’t help you accessorize? You can never go wrong with vintage clothes. Just try to select classic pieces that you are able to work into your wardrobe.
2. Swap clothes with your friends.
It is important when you are making friends to select girls that are about your size.
3. Always wear jewelry
Despite tough times, it is important to wear a bracelet, necklace, watch and earrings. It is what separates a plain Jane and a diva. It is also conversation starter. I promise.
4. Shop in your closet!
Create new outfits by layering, mixing and matching your current wardrobe. This can easily be done by wearing a turtleneck and blazer over a dress for an entirely new look. Tights can instantly transform an outfit; a shirt is now a new dress!
5. Only buy the essentials.
A few good items that every young lady needs in her closet are: a cocktail dress, dressy shorts, skirt, blazer, clutch bag, platform wedge heels, pumps, and dressy flats.
If you are interested in learning more about Esther or want to join her “in list” go to www.ESTHERNASH.com.
For my fellow New Yorkers, go to Allan & Suzi to check out Esther’s line.
