In Uniform: Cortne Bonilla’s Enviable Closet Curation

Rip & Tan: In as many words as you prefer, what is the essence of your everyday uniform?

Cortne Bonilla: Effortless and relaxed, in neutral tones and added details. I used to call myself a minimalist, but that actually isn’t entirely true and doesn’t capture the characteristics of my entire wardrobe. Although I naturally gravitate toward browns, creams, black and grey, all of the pieces I wear the most have details either in silhouette or texture. I also rely heavily on contemporary accessories—like a chunky leather bag or grungy footwear. 

Rip & Tan: Regardless of season, what are three pieces every woman ought to have in her closet?

Cortne Bonilla: A button-down, in whatever hue and fabric speaks to you, is essential. I truly believe that no wardrobe is complete or comprehensive without those everyday staples to dress up and down. 

A funky skirt. Again, regardless of personal aesthetics and choice, a skirt (think a vintage pleated option or a textured maxi) can be worn with T-shirts, knitwear, cropped blouses, and more. 

A comfortable pair of jeans are always needed. Something that makes you feel confident and free. For me, that’s a low-rise pair of baggy denim.

Rip & Tan: How does living in New York influence the way you approach your wardrobe? 

Cortne Bonilla: What makes New York so unique is that there is no formula to being—there is no right way to dress, act, or look, and that’s what gives the city the creative energy it holds. In New York, you need outfits for every season (because we have all four!) but you also need things that are easy to transfer from place to place—shoes that are good for walking, a dress that can go from a coffee shop to a dinner event. It makes you get expressive with your wardrobe, in a freeing way that exists nowhere else to this level. 

Rip & Tan: What are a few of the ways you make getting dressed feel special and intentional? 

Cortne Bonilla: Depending on what I have going on for that day, I’ll plan my outfit the night before based on the occasion. I don’t like rushing when I get dressed—I like to think about how I want to feel that day, and that usually includes putting on a favorite item of mine. Luckily, working in fashion, I’ve been able to curate a wardrobe that I 100% love—every single item in my closet is a favorite piece of mine. When I get dressed, the intention is for me to say something without speaking.

Rip & Tan: On those days when outfit indecision strikes, what’s your one look that never fails? 

Cortne Bonilla: Oh this is easy for me. A suit is my go-to, paired with sneakers for the day, and a heeled loafer or slingback for night. In the summer, I stick to trousers and tank tops, or an oversized white dress. It never fails! 

Rip & Tan: What’s your accessorizing strategy? Any spring and summer must-haves?

Cortne Bonilla: I feel naked without a good pair of earrings on, and my staples are unique takes on a classic hoop, usually in gold. Twisted, and sculptural. In the warmer weather, you can always catch me in a chunky flip flop, or satin ballet flat. 

Rip & Tan: How do you define timeless style? 

Cortne Bonilla: Timelessness is relative to the person—if you’re a grungy girl, then a leather jacket always works. It depends on your personal style ethos. However, I do think that a timeless piece isn’t marked by a specific trend. Some trends are more timeless than others but hyper-specific trends can be pinpointed to a year, and even a particular month. Timeless is looking like yourself, no matter what.