Traveling, designing, being a creative on the move- all these things involve serious urban artillery and often a handbag full of necessities for getting through the day. That’s why we asked DV designers Jillian Shatken and Tovah Gordon to share with us some of the things they simply can’t live without.
Jillian
17 oz Vita Cocos (the 11 oz just no longer cuts it), fruit stands, my metrocard, flea markets- I think if I only had those 4 things, I still could survive. I also absolutely need my white cutoffs (of Uniqlo origins) and my Dolce Vita Pelas – we can’t even keep them in stores long enough for me to buy more colors! Another essential is the Dolce Vita Betty dress for going out, which looks amazing with my vintage Moschino belt . Also, my $5 vintage Rayban wayfarers, rescued from a flea market bin and lovingly restored by the amazingly sweet gentleman at Sol Moscot, free of charge. My maxi jersey tank dress from Oak, works in the city and at the beach, and was my smartest/easiest purchase of the summer by far.
(Photo credit: Alex R. Kirzhner)
Tovah
1)Vintage Shopping- I love mixing contemporary looks with vintage items. I like finding a balance between the new and the old to develop my own personal style. Vintage shopping is a fun excursion, and it can also be less expensive. Some of my favorite pieces were given to me from my mother.
2)Clinique Pore Minimizer Oil Blotting Sheets- I am totally addicted to these things, especially in the summertime heat. It blots off any excess oil on your face but doesn’t remove your makeup in the process. The tiny packs are neat and so easy to carry around in my handbag.
3)Essence Magazine- I’ve read this magazine ever since I was young tot. It’s a magazine with well-written inspirational and educational content. I love it because it’s a classy lifestyle magazine that celebrates women of color and is relevant to all women from all walks of life.
4)Phone Calls Home- I always take time out of my busy schedule to talk to the most inspiring and supportive people in my life. My parents live in a different state, so I don’t get to see them as often as I would like. I phone home to make sure everything is ok. I also cherish our conversations because they motivate me to keep pushing to be the best that I can be.
5)Black Soap- In my years on this planet I never found a face wash that worked well on my face. None. Then I tried black soap, and I won’t use anything else. The look of it sometimes intimidates my houseguests, but it works great. It evens my skin tone, refines my pores, and clears up any blemishes almost instantly. The best thing is that it never dries out my skin.
6)Dance- Dance has always been a part of my life. It’s a great way to de-stress and express yourself without the use of words. Anyone can do it. You don’t have to have rhythm. I break into a random weird dance in my apartment probably daily. Then I laugh at myself and keep it moving.
7)Vaseline Cocoa Butter Vitalizing Gel Body Oil- I use this right after my shower, while my skin is still wet. It locks in moisture and keeps my skin smooth all day long. Smells good too.
8)Mini Sketch Book- I first invested in one when I was taking courses at FIT. I carry it with me while I’m on-the-go, in case I get inspired and need to sketch out an idea quickly. I also use it to jot down daily notes and reminders.
9)Ipod- I absolutely love music and have my Ipod on me at all times. Your Ipod has the soundtrack to whatever is going on in your life at the moment. It’s a reflection of your mood. It’s also the best way to block out some of the unwanted noise of the city.
10)Kinky Curly Curling Custard- This is my low maintenance way of defining my curls. One application lasts several days, so I use it about twice a week, and on the other days I just spray my hair with water and conditioner, then I shake and go.
- New York
[...] this week we checked in on Tovah and Gillian’s essentials, so we thought we’d ask head designer Ivy Kirzhner a few who, what, when, were, whys, and [...]