What’s in Delia Folk & Alison Bruhn’s Summer Closets? with The Style That Binds Us
Mother-daughter duo from The Style That Binds Us shares what’s on their summer essentials list.
Some moms are your mentors. Some daughters are your best friends. Delia Folk and Alison Bruhn are both – and business partners. With a mutual affinity for fashion and culture, the two set out to create The Style That Binds Us. Beyond the digital blog, The Style That Binds Us lends itself to a podcast and YouTube Channel as well. When it comes to content creation, Delia and Alison are all in!
With Alison’s degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and Delia’s experience in the buying department of Barney’s, these two women have the savvy to always put their fingers on the latest trends. We spoke with Delia and Alison to get their take on the summer style that binds them.
Last purchase?
DELIA: Denim shorts.
ALISON: Mascara.
Your source(s) of inspiration?
DELIA: Everything! Even more so with this forced pause during coronavirus – I am seeing things in a new way. I get inspiration from visiting museums, having conversations with others, podcasts, magazines, nature, movies and more. It could be the simplest thing, but you need to be on the lookout.
ALISON: Music, books, film, nature, art, dance, people-watching.
The most iconic piece in your closet?
DELIA: Thankfully, since mom is a stylist, she has helped me create a core wardrobe. Two of the most iconic pieces that I am obsessed with are my Acne black leather jacket & Manolo Blahnik black pumps. We have created videos on The Style That Binds Us YouTube channel for each of these pieces, because they are THAT important!
ALISON: Manolo Blahnik black BB pumps, Chanel bag.
An accessory you are always attracted to?
DELIA: Hoop earrings, straw bag or hat, and snake ring. I am OBSESSED with shoes. I think of them as little works of art. You can never have too many pairs…
ALISON: Shoes, bags, jewelry – I love them all!
The perfume you find the most intoxicating?
DELIA: Carnal Flower by Frederic Malle.
ALISON: First by Van Cleefs & Arpel.
Three essential pieces for your summer wardrobe?
DELIA: Cream Castañer wedges, neutral sandals and sundresses.
ALISON: Espadrilles, sundresses, sunglasses.
How do you see the fashion industry evolving past the pandemic?
DELIA: I think a lot of exciting things are going to come out of this, although I know this is such a tough time for everyone. I am excited to see what happens with Fashion Month. In my opinion, it would be much more practical if all the fashion shows of one city were in the same location, so you didn’t have to run all over. My hope is that companies are able to get back to creativity & community instead of focusing so much on data and numbers. I hope things will be more “see now, buy now,” and that we will be less focused on constant newness.
ALISON: Brands will hopefully create fewer collections, giving designers time to thoughtfully find inspiration in order to create special pieces. People will choose wisely and with the goal of longevity rather than constant newness. Designers and brands will collaborate, share resources, and so forth.
What are some changes you hope will remain even after we’ve returned to normalcy?
DELIA: I hope that we will be more patient and kind with one another. Maybe we won’t live our lives at such a frantic pace anymore. I cannot wait to go back to living life in person and not through a screen – observing, building our communities, and building each other up. I hope people in business will be more understanding of family life. There’s a chance that those constant interruptions by kids during Zoom meetings have succeeded in humanizing people more than ever.
ALISON: Fewer collections, less “stuff,” less waste, thinking of fashion as art – as true craft, dressing and shopping for season, and goodbye to fast fashion!
What kind of mask will you be sporting this summer? (are you going for the classic nurse mask or trendy prints on cotton?)
DELIA: Both! We are trying to set an example and are determined to make the mask chic, since it is the latest “it” accessory!
ALISON: I haven’t left home enough to wear anything but the classic mask, but am starting to think about that. Masks are not the most comfortable, with glasses and sunglasses especially; it’s an unpleasant experience. I’m interested in what creative minds will come up with that will keep us safe, while a little less cumbersome to wear. I’m thinking a light blue and white gingham would be fun!
Originally from Los Angeles, Alicia lived in Shanghai for 11 years before moving back to the states to attend the University of Miami, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and minors in art and philosophy. Currently residing in New York City, Alicia applies her knowledge of strategic communication and design in her career. She enjoys painting, rugby, exploring, and more often than not, you’ll find her petting someone’s dog.
Brands will hopefully create fewer collections, giving designers time to thoughtfully find inspiration in order to create special pieces.
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