July 30, 2024
Style & Beauty, People, Lifestyle, Feature, Style & Beauty,
Acclaimed English supermodel, singer-songwriter and author Karen Elson has been featured by the likes of Alexander McQueen and Chanel—both on the runway and in countless ad campaigns.
Now, the fashion icon is partnering with pre-loved luxury retailer Vestiaire Collective for an exclusive closet cleanout, now live on the site.
Ahead of a move from her Nashville home, Elson is selling 37 pieces from brands like The Vampire’s Wife, Ulla Johnson, Gucci, Miu Miu, Zimmermann and more, priced between $99.75 and $1,790.25.
“I’m excited to sell pieces from my closet that I don’t wear anymore on Vestiaire Collective because of its global reach, which will allow fashion enthusiasts from all around the world to discover them and re-wear them,” says Elson.
Here, Elson shares more details about the closet sale, discusses her style secrets and divulges her best resale finds.
Could you describe your personal style?
My style leans more toward feminine, elegant, and individual. I’m definitely a massive clothes horse and love dressing up, but for years I loved vintage most because it was more one-of-a-kind. While I still love the thrill of a good vintage find, I don’t like rummaging through vintage stores much these days. Online shopping is my thing!
How did you decide what to keep and what to sell with this closet sale?
I’m moving soon and doing a lot of purging, from clothes to furniture and art. Honestly, if it wasn’t a piece that’s sentimental if my daughter didn’t want it, or if I hadn’t worn the outfit in a few years, it was going to Vestiaire Collective.
Tell us about some of the pieces that you’re selling in this closet sale. Are there any stories behind them?
In my closet sale, I’m very partial to the Alaïa leather jacket and shoes. I bought them directly from Azzedine’s store in Paris before he passed. He helped me pick out a bunch of things—items that I still cherish today. The shoes are so foxy and the jacket is incredible, but sadly it doesn’t fit me anymore.
What has been your best resale find?
A few years ago, I found a red velvet 1970s Saint Laurent dress in mint condition. It’s one of my prized possessions and truly stunning.
If you could pick anyone, whose closet would you like to shop and why?
Oh my, what a question—there is a vintage dealer in London called Virginia Bates who has maybe the most beautiful collection of vintage dresses. If I could raid her closet, I would die and go to heaven!
See also: Interiors Icon Jeffrey Alan Marks Shares His Montauk Moodboard
Photography by: Header of Karen Elson at the 2023 Met Gala by John Shearer/WireImage; all other photos by Emily Dorio