Tanya Taylor’s aesthetic can be defined in one word: upbeat. The Canadian designer is known for colorful printed dresses that look like the fashion girl’s answer to Lilly Pulitzer. The prints are hand-painted by Taylor’s team, and have attracted celebrity fans including Michelle Obama and Jennifer Garner. After designing a dress for Aidy Bryant, of SNL and Shrill fame, Taylor added extended sizes to her brand (up to a size 22). We spoke with the designer about Birkenstocks, theme parties, and her favorite shoes (of which there are many).
How do you thank someone for a gift?
I recently started donating in the person’s name to an organization or charity that I know they would support. I let them know with a handwritten thank-you card. It feels more meaningful these days.
What would you never wear?
I am not a Birkenstock girl, not a solid-black girl, and not a frown girl.
What’s your dream vacation?
A week in a treehouse in Bali with my family with fresh papaya and live music.
What’s a good book on your coffee table right now?
My latest coffee-table book purchase is In Biba: A Graphic Romance by Delisia Howard. I recently met Barbara Hulanicki in Miami and now I can’t stop buying her design books. She’s such an inspiration to me.
Last show you binge-watched?
True Detective season three and Friends From College seasons one and two.
Secret to hosting a good party?
I love a theme, a game, a cocktail of the night, and an appetite to eat and be silly.
What is a trend that you like right now?
I’m definitely into the tie-dye trend for the summer. Reminds me of summer camp and gives me the opportunity to walk around looking like a rainbow.
One you don’t understand?
The Dad sneaker trend. I can’t pull it off.
Favorite museum/gallery?
LACMA, Stockholm’s Moderne Museet and I recently loved the Hilma af Klint exhibit at the Guggenheim
Shoes you wear most often?
I’m a shoe freak. I usually alternate between green faux croc Aquazurra knee-high boots, Celine extended pointed-toe black booties, Rejina Pyo red slingbacks, and Chloé loafers.
Can you share three photos of yourself that define your style? And a brief explanation of why?
I define my style as fun, optimistic, and bold. And I take influence from my surroundings. I love to mix colors and patterns, and a pop accessory goes a long way.
What’s your favorite…
Pajamas?
Eberjey.
Candle?
Byredo Burning Rose.
Scent?
Anine Bing Savage Rose.
Restaurant?
Pasquale Jones for local and The Grill for uptown.
Socks?
Missoni sparkle knit stripe socks.
T-shirt?
Frame Denim in pop colors.
What is your favorite space in your office/studio/home?
I love when I have a few moments alone in my office. In the late afternoon, when the light shines in, it’s incredibly relaxing and I’m able to drown out any noise and focus on bringing my ideas to life.
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