Artist, vintage connoisseur, and fashion icon, Jo Rosenthal, hails from Miami but has turned New York City into her home. Since relocating here, she’s befriended some of coolest boutique owners and up-and-coming designers, turning the streets into her cat walk and Instagram into her style portfolio. So, what makes her look stand out so? For starters, Rosenthal’s affinity for vintage curates the timeless look of all her outfits and guarantees that none of her fits will be seen on anyone else, anywhere. We catch up with Rosenthal for a quick conversation on her style tips, favorite places to shop, and the importance of supporting local up-coming brands and designers.
Where do you live?
JR: Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Where are your favorite places to shop?
JR: In my neighborhood there are so many cute boutiques. It’s hard to choose specific places that I like to shop because I’m not always shopping and I can’t always afford the luxury of buying new things . I try to save up for really really special things or things that my friends made, and when I feel like shopping I’ll wander online or through the city to pick out things I like.
What are 3-5 brands you love?
JR: This is such a good question because it depends what the item is. I like to support designers with a good message, such as Orseund Iris, because the designer Lana is seriously the sweetest person. When I feel like splurging, I’ll go into ACNE Studios or Maryam Nassir Zadeh. I’m also a huge fan of Collina Strada because I feel like she creates clothes with positivity and uniqueness in mind. There’s this new designer called Chelsea Mak that I’m a huge fan of, as well. It’s so hard to choose 3-5 brands, so I’m going to name some more that I can’t live without or dream about buying. Miaou, Paris99, and Sandy Liang are some brands I’ll never be able to live without.
What are your go-to style essentials?
JR: I own a lot of crazy patterned pants, so I always try and keep black and white tank tops to go with them. I also only wear 100% cotton underwear and try to not wear anything made out of materials that are really bad for the planet. For example, Vivien Ramsay has amazing basics that complete any wardrobe.
What is your style philosophy?
JR: I would have to say that my style philosophy is to be yourself but do it with sparkles.
What style rules/if any do you religiously follow?
JR: I don’t follow any style rules because I feel like that takes away from me actually dressing like myself. I always try and wear something that makes me feel comfortable in my own skin.
Casual or Dressy?
JR: Casual with a dressy twist 😉
What country or culture do you think captures your style most?
JR: Definitely Japan, I felt like I could really be my funky-dressed self over there.
Hot weather or cold weather?
JR: I like weather that isn’t too hot but isn’t too cold. I’m from Florida so I’m used to burning hot weather, so my favorite is when it’s in the 60’s.