In Uniform: How Kristel Kalm Perfects Fall Style

Rip & Tan: How would you define your personal style? 

Kristel Kalm: I would define my style as minimal, casual and classic. I have a strong affinity for high-quality items, neutral color palettes, and clean aesthetics.

Rip & Tan: When in doubt, what outfit combination can you always count on? 

Kristel Kalm: I can always count on an all-black outfit. It’s my go-to choice for its versatility and the way it effortlessly adds a touch of sophistication to any occasion. For fall, it would be a pair of black trousers paired with a black cashmere sweater and black leather loafers.

Rip & Tan: From what you’d wear to what you’d do, walk us through an ideal NYC day. 

Kristel Kalm: My ideal day would begin by passing by my favorite coffee shop, followed by a long walk with my puppy.  I would spend some time capturing content, running errands and maybe visiting a museum. For comfort and style, I would wear trousers, a white tank top, and an open button-up shirt.

Rip & Tan: As a self-proclaimed minimalist, what are some of your favorite ways to mix up your day-to-day style? 

Kristel Kalm: I maintain a small, curated wardrobe of high-quality pieces that mix and match effortlessly, ensuring that I always have versatile options to choose from. While I cherish the simplicity of my wardrobe, I also enjoy incorporating different textures, layering techniques, and accessories to add variety and flair to my outfits. 

Rip & Tan: Let’s talk accessories. What are the pieces you don’t go a day without?

Kristel Kalm: When it comes to jewelry, there is one piece I simply don’t go a day without. A simple minimalist necklace. When it comes to bags and shoes, I tend to opt for quality black options that seamlessly blend with my minimalist wardrobe. 

Rip & Tan: How does your style adapt when you’re traveling? Do you have a tried-and-true travel capsule? 

Kristel Kalm: When I’m traveling, my style definitely adapts to prioritize comfort and practicality. I tend to opt for a versatile travel capsule wardrobe that allows me to mix and match pieces for different occasions and climates.

My go-to travel outfit usually consists of a pair of comfortable trousers or leggings as a base, depending on the destination, and I pair it with an oversized sweater.  It’s all about comfort and versatility, with a focus on key pieces that make it easy to adapt without sacrificing style or comfort.

Rip & Tan: With fall approaching, which pieces are you most excited to style? 

Kristel Kalm: Cashmere cardigans, ballet flats and trench coats.

Rip & Tan: What’s one piece every woman needs this fall? 

Kristel Kalm: One piece that’s an absolute must-have for every woman this fall is a quality cashmere sweater. It not only provides warmth and comfort but also adds a touch of luxury and timeless elegance to any autumn outfit.

Rip & Tan: What does timelessness mean to you? 

Kristel Kalm: Timelessness, for me, means investing in quality basics and timeless pieces that you won’t grow tired of—pieces that can be worn season after season.