As a professor, what lured you into fashion?

I was always interested in using clothing as an expressive tool, even as a child so I have always been interested in fashion.

What was it like when you first started to be recognized on the street? How did you handle it?

It was and is still rather unbelievable to me. I feel very humble about it and try not to attach or take it all too seriously. I am not naive and know that this could all be very fleeting.

In fashion, there’s not a lot of people trying to break the “rules.” What was the feedback like when you decided to come in and do just that?

Most people who’ve hired me have worked with me, and just recently has my following become younger. I think the young right now are breaking a lot of social categories and rejecting norms, so I get tons of support in my role as being a rulebreaker.

Your Weekend Bibliographies are important tools, especially for fashion students.

Well since I am still working as a professor it’s kind of a riff off of that identity. I get tired of all the celebrity and market focus in the mainstream fashion press so I scan independent magazines to get some inspiration and some critical thinking about the fashion system. I share articles on the bibliography that I found interesting or not covered in other fashion mags.

What was is like to go on the TED stage and tell everyone the real story?

Very liberating. It is always a great thing when you can be in control of your own representation. It was also the biggest stage I was ever on without a podium so it was kind of anxiety-producing too.

You’ve done a lot of editorials in the past few years, what was your favorite one?

I have to say the one I did with Glassbook. It was an amazing team and they really were able to convey the woman I feel like on the inside. I wanted to get in touch with my 25-year-old disco diva self. They went beyond the limits of my physical body and showed the girl I was and am.

In your opinion, what are 5 go to pieces that anyone can wear?

Beautifully tailored black trousers, a cashmere v-neck, a caftan, a white shirt, and jeans.

How do you think the fashion influencer game has changed since you’ve made your impact?

It has definitely become an industry and changed the way brands are using their advertising budget. You can make a substantial income if your content is good and you have an engaged following. They have almost as much power as fashion editors once had.

What message do you want to convey to people through your page?

You do not need to stay in the boxes society says you should. Most importantly: it’s never too late to completely change up who you are or what you want to do.

What is the advice you would give someone who wants to change the industry today?

Now’s the time! All the rules of the game are in flux and the entire system is changing from moment to moment. If you are innovative and creative and want to make change, there is never a time like right now.