Sitting Pretty with Kristen Nichols of Who What Wear

I was fortunate enough to meet Kristen Nichols a few years ago through mutual friends and I’m so glad I did because she is such a gem. Kristen has it all… she’s always so interesting to chat with, she is a powerhouse at work, and she always knows the best classic + new must-visit spots to go in both Los Angeles and New York City. In fact, when I’m looking for a new restaurant or bar to try, she’s one of my go-to gals for inside scoop! I admire Kristen because she has a wonderfully curated eye and thus knows what she loves or strives for and she goes for it. She’s aspirational and talented! From Rodarte to Allure to Who What Wear, she’s seen and done it all. Read my full Sitting Pretty with Kristen Nichols of Who What Wear interview to hear about her inspirational career in fashion, her wardrobe + beauty must-haves, and why Paris holds such a special place in her heart.

Name: Kristen Nichols

Neighborhood: West Hollywood in L.A.

Job: Associate Editor, Who What Wear

Instagram Handle: @kristenmarienichols

Let’s Talk Business…

How did you land your job as Editor at Who What Wear? Can you tell us a little about your career path?

I started out interning at Rodarte, eventually landing a role as Communications Manager. After working on creative editorial projects, I realized that’s where my passion was and went back to the drawing board to be the assistant to the Editor-in-Chief at Allure. At Allure, I received incredible mentorship and had the opportunity to write stories for both print and digital. After two years at the beauty bible, I met with the team at Who What Wear to discuss an editorial role and, after I landed the job, I moved into my current position as Associate Editor.

Why is working for a publication dedicated to fashion important to you?

I grew up loving fashion. My weekends were spent flipping through magazines with my mom at the local bookstore and my room was lined with issues of Vogue and Paris Vogue that I collected. But, really, it was after a summer living in Paris that I decided I wanted to work in the creative world of fashion. It sounds cliché, I know, but the city truly inspired me towards that move.

Describe your job in 3 sentences or less.

As a digital fashion editor, I pitch and develop editorial stories for Who What Wear. That means writing stories, building relationships with brands and PR agents, and attending events to represent Who What Wear.

Working as an Editor sounds so intriguing! What exactly are you creating for Who What Wear?

My main responsibility is creating original content for Who What Wear. That means pitching stories, sourcing photos and market, writing copy, and publishing new pieces. I work with many of our internal teams to make this happen: people from editorial, art, social, branded content…the list goes on. It’s also a big part of my job to build relationships within the industry by communicating with PR agents and attending events to represent the brand.

Let’s Talk Fashion…

Describe your style in a few adjectives.

Classic, modern

What are your wardrobe staples?

Vintage-inspired jeans, mini skirts, and crew neck t-shirts.

If I peeked into your closet, what color would be the most prominent?

Black, white, and denim (does that count as a color?)

What fashion piece would you splurge on tomorrow if you could?

A Hérmes Kelly bag. It’s been on my list for years.

Are there any trends you’re excited about right now?

For fall, I’m excited about kitten heels, tailored suiting, and red.

Let’s Talk Beauty…

What are your beauty must-haves?

First of all, I’m a skincare fanatic. Shani Darden’s Resurface is the most gentle retinol I’ve tried (and it’s a must). Beyond that, I’m a huge proponent of sunscreen, serums, and moisturizer. But there’s also nothing I love more than makeup. I’m an Allure veteran after all! Chanel Vitalumiere foundation is my daily staple, as well as Diorshow Black Out mascara for a defined eye with long lashes, and RMS luminizer (in champagne) for a light-from-within glow. But perhaps my ultimate necessity is a black inky eyeliner for my signature cat eye.

What perfume do you spritz on as you walk out the door?

I’ve been hooked on YSL Cinéma for over ten years. I blame it on my fascination with the glamour of Old Hollywood and anything with a seductive scent.

What color nail polish are you currently wearing?

I rotate between Topless and Barefoot by Essie and Pirate by Chanel.

Let’s Talk Décor…

Describe your decorating style in three adjectives.

Minimal, Modern, Clean.

If your mother taught you one trick about interior decorating, what would it be?

Don’t let anything into your space that you don’t love.

What is your favorite piece of art or furniture you own?

I bought a painting of the Paris skyline during a trip there back in high school and it’s one of my most prized possessions. It’s a tiny little thing that’s probably worth close to nothing but I couldn’t love anything more.

What’s on your bar cart?

Sancerre, Pinot Noir, and Tequila.

Let’s Talk Travel…

Beach or Mountains?

Beach.

East Coast or West Coast?

West Coast.

What is your favorite destination?

I spent a summer living in Paris and will always have a special place in my heart for the romantic city.

Are you planning any upcoming trips?

I’m heading to London and Paris for Thanksgiving. Then, Tahiti after the New Year.

Go-to cocktail when you’re traveling?

A glass of Sancerre or a Paloma.

What is your favorite place to visit in California?

Recently, Napa and Sonoma.

Let’s Talk Los Angeles…

What does living in Los Angeles mean to you? Any favorite part of living in the City of Angeles?

I spent the last two years living in NYC. After living in L.A. for years, I wanted to experience something new. While I loved it, the most important thing it taught me is how incredible the city of L.A. is. You really can’t beat the weather, the way of life, and its proximity to amazing places (you can be at the beach, desert, mountains, and wine country within a few hours).

Fill in the blank: “On the weekend, you’ll find me at _____________.”

Tower Bar—my go-to neighborhood spot. It also happens to be one of my favorite places around.

Best date night restaurant?

I love inventive dates. A fun concert or a picnic at Hollywood Forever is right up my alley.

Best brunch restaurant?

Gjelina in Venice.

Best boutique(s) or shop/shopping?

To be honest, I do most of my shopping online. I make frequent orders from Net-a-Porter and Reformation.

Best activity?

I love working out. Body By Simone is my favorite class but I’m also addicted to hikes at Griffith Park.