Styled By: Kate Brien

I have been fortunate enough to know the incredibly talented and stylish Kate Brien for some time – years ago, she interned with me, always helping with lookbooks and fashion shows, and then worked with Kate Young and Lawren Howell before going out on her own as a stylist. For the past several years, she has styled all of my collections, and in that time launched what would become fashion gold: her amazing blog, View From The Topp.

I asked Kate to share some of the secrets to her signature style, and hope you enjoy. Stay tuned tomorrow for a look inside her equally covetable Venice home. XXJKE

R+T: What are the five timeless pieces you could not live without?

1. Chambray Shirts

2. Crewneck White Tees

3. Vintage Levi’s 501s

4. Black Trousers

5. Jenni Kayne D’Orsay Flats

R+T: What are the five pieces you are loving this season?

1. Newbark Slides (in Snakeskin & Shearling)

2. The Row Oxfords

3. Neutral Cable Knits (from Michael Kors & Marc Jacobs)

4. Anything Céline Gingham

5. Clyde Pinch Panama Hat

R+T: Fill in the Blanks…

Comfort is more important than everything.

Every woman needs a uniform.

When you can’t find anything to wear, a white tee, vintage Levi’s and Jenni Kayne D’Orsay Flats never fail.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is a classic style icon that I think always got it right.

Shoes can make or break an outfit.

A great bag is a worthy investment piece.

R+T: After years of working in the fashion industry and styling professionally, what are 3-5 pieces of wisdom about personal style, shopping and fashion that you consider worthy of passing on to others?

1. Buy a steamer! I love the small portable ones – they’re easy to use and perfect for traveling.

2. Find a great tailor. Most clothing isn’t meant to fit the same body type and a little alteration can go a long way.

3. Learn what works for you and stick with it. The best dressed women I know all have a uniform.

Photo: David Kitz