For this week’s letter, I spoke with Christine Gachot, the co-founder and principal designer of Gachot Studios. To me, Christine is the archetype of a certain professional, creative New York woman—poised, decisive, and seemingly always in motion. Her studio of nearly 50 designers is behind some of the city’s most stylish spaces—Jac’s on Bond, Pebble Bar, the Glossier Flagship—as well as dozens of residential and commercial projects across the country. Christine is booked and busy. Her calendar is packed with travel, meetings, and lots of events, and her wardrobe reflects it. She wears a lot of designer, mostly Khaite, and sticks to a rigorous edit. I respect the commitment. I love talking to high-achieving women who take style seriously. It was fun to peek inside of Christine’s closet. Here’s what she’s been living in lately.
By the way, before we jump in, many of you asked about Michelle’s shoes from last week’s letter. They are here and here. Send me questions anytime. I am always trying to be better about links!
Describe your personal style. What are you living in right now and why?
I would call my style classic American, with an edge. As a designer, I appreciate craftsmanship and tailoring – the fabrics and silhouettes of a garment are incredibly important. I’m a Khaite loyalist and have been a fan since the beginning – knits and trousers from early collections continue to be staples in my closet: her pieces are just timeless elegance and quality. I also admire that the designs are suitable for a wide range of ages and body types, it’s refreshing.
I adore my Khaite t-shirts, denim and knitwear. I’m also always in my Bottega Veneta blazers and heels – they’re incredibly reliable. I just bought a Saint Laurent tie that adds a trendy touch to my wardrobe. So chic.
How often do you shop?
I constantly have events on my calendar. If there happens to be a specific theme or dress code, I understand the assignment and I’m running with it. It will become my mission to find the perfect look, so I’m always keeping my eye out for occasion-worthy pieces. I also tend to shop seasonally. I have the pleasure of attending a few of the shows, and if I see something I love, I’m not afraid to shop right off the runway – I’m always up for a little fun!
Where do you shop the most?
My #1 is everything Khaite! I also find myself very drawn to Bottega Veneta, Saint Laurent and Victoria Beckam. All are tried-and-true essentials. I gravitate towards buying pieces that become part of my collection, pieces that I’ll have forever. I don’t necessarily feel the need to follow trends – I know what I like and what I feel my best in. Understanding my style and building my collection helps me to ‘shop my wardrobe’ – my closet has become a reliable toolbox that I can lean on for whatever I need for both my day-to-day looks and special occasion outfits.
CHRISTINE’S MOST WORN
Khaite jeans, knits, and tees
Blazers
Best buy of the last year?
The Khaite Simona bag, I can’t put it down! I’ve bought multiple. It’s unexpectedly practical – they look relatively small, but I promise, it absolutely fits everything you need. I also appreciate the versatility – it’s quickly able to transition from day to evening. I can easily throw it on my shoulder or wrist, it’s a standout for sure – the workhorse of my handbag toolkit. If someone is going to hold onto this bag after the East West shape is ‘done’, it’ll be me, gladly.
What’s your go-to out for a night out?
For a special event night out, I take the dress code seriously – I don’t mess with etiquette! If an event is black tie, be assured I know what that means. For a fun night out grabbing a cocktail, I’m probably in a Saint Laurent cami with jeans and a blazer from my collection – it’s usually that simple. However, I’m always up for a great pair of heels – that’s where I can go a bit daring. Although I’m simple and comfortable in my style, occasionally I’ll take a risk on night out – I stray from my uniform and have fun with it!
What are you currently searching for?
I’m thinking ahead to Fall. What does this look like for my wardrobe – do I need another bag or jacket? Maybe a fresh pair of kitten-heels? I’m getting organized.
What’s your go-to bodega/coffee/grocery-run outfit?
For a quick run to the bodega, I’m definitely in my Khaite denim, with my favorite Loewe penny loafers – a casual but put-together look. The loafers are a new favorite, they’re comfortable enough that I wore them on a flight to Dubai. Amazing.
Loewe loafers and Loro Piana Bag
Does your style change when you go to work?
No, my style doesn’t really change in the studio. I have a formula that I pretty much stick to in both my personal and professional life. However, I certainly feel influenced by my team – I’m constantly surrounded by creative designers and artists who have elevated tastes and style. And my boys are always ahead of the game. They knew jorts were a thing before I did! I’m not ashamed to say I had them on last summer with a little heel. I feel lucky to be kept up to trend by those around me, and then I’m able to make each look my own.
I’ve been very into cool-toned metals recently, and I believe this is a reaction to my designers switching it up last season and moving away from gold. We’re all influencing and inspiring one another, and the fashion spans a wide range of ages and demographics – I really appreciate this aspect of the studio’s culture.
What clothing item or accessory do you always travel with?
I’m always with my Acqua di Parma cognac leather jewelry pouch. It was a very thoughtful birthday gift from a friend, and it comes with me everywhere. I’m traveling constantly, and always with my jewelry, so this is my go-to. It holds everything – earrings, necklaces, watches. Practical and chic!
Jewelry Roll
MORE TO SHOP….
Gachot is one of my favorite firms - I feel they can do no wrong. The Pendry Manhattan West is SO mindblowingly perfect to me. I RAN to read this issue when I saw who it was about!
Great post! So many of my favorite picks at the end. Not a KHAITE fan.. but love to see how Christine Gachot styles her pieces.. & could those Loewe loafers BE any better?????