For our second Passing Points, we asked Karina Givargisoff, founder and editor-in-chief of Mission magazine about what inspires her modular wardrobe. A friend of Studio Nicholson, she was formerly the fashion editor at The Face in addition to contributing to Vogue, Elle and various other international publications.
PASSING POINTS - EDITOR KARINA GIVARGISOFF
"Nowadays we’re all spinning so many plates with ever increasing life and work pressures. This means it’s important that what we wear isn’t uncomfortable or a pain to take on and off."
If your wardrobe could speak, what would it say about you?
It would say, I like cool, chic, timeless statement pieces – an even balance of unbranded, neutral womenswear, with a relaxed style for tomboy-ish ease. I’m a considered, sensible shopper and I invest in my wardrobe. Luckily I’m not a shopaholic. My wardrobe doesn’t scream "look at me.” I think it says I am aware of style (and can turn it on and off when an occasion dictates). I’m quite anti-rules and trends – I prefer my wardrobe to be quiet, if that makes sense?
Why are form, fit and fabrication crucial for our enjoyment of clothing?
Nowadays we’re all spinning so many plates with ever increasing life and work pressures. This means it’s important that what we wear isn’t uncomfortable or a pain to take on and off. I also want to know, learn and understand more about where my pieces come from. I love pockets and if something doesn’t have pockets, I probably won’t invest in it. Clothing has to be functional.
If you could pick one season to dress for, what would it be?
Oh this is a tough one! I love (and live in) a grey, wool, A-line Studio Nicholson skirt from 2020. I think I am obsessed with coats too, so I guess it would be Autumn – because coats always win!
What makes a good modular wardrobe?
For me it is neutral colors that can all work together. Navy, cream, beige and a little black. I have perhaps 8 pieces that all work together that I go through a phase of only wearing those interchangeable pieces. You don’t need much if you have the right key pieces.
Karina's curated modular wardrobe:
In April 2020, Mission Mag invited Nick Wakeman, founder and creative director of Studio Nicholson, to speak about the foundations of the brand. The podcast gives a rare insight into Nick's time at the Chelsea School of Art in the early 1990s, her scientific approach to the design process and her lifelong obsession with fabric. Nick shares personal stories about her travels to Japan, her optimistic outlook on life - and her surprising love of watching old episodes of 'Columbo'.
