With a celebrity clientele that includes Michelle Obama, Scarlett Johansson, Taylor Swift, and Blake Lively, it's safe to say Nanette Lepore has garnered quite a following with her colorful, ladylike designs. But it's not just the A-list that's enamored with her collection. We're also big fans of Lepore's knack for mixing bold, exotic patterns with flattering silhouettes. With the dog days of Summer on our mind, we picked the designer's brain on how to dress for the heat, heard about her dream vacation, and even got the 411 on her upcoming Spring '14 collection set to debut at New York Fashion Week in September.
POPSUGAR Fashion: Did you take any vacations this Summer?
Nanette Lepore: I did a little trip to Nantucket for a wedding, and that was really sweet. I'd never been there, so my daughter and I rented bikes, and we rode bikes and it was really fun to do. That was lovely. I want to go back because I really like the bicycle culture there. I did a little trip to Tulum with my daughter too, which was really lovely. That was just with the girls, and it was really fun. I’ve done all of my Summer trips, but I have a fantasy Summer plan.
PS: What is your fantasy Summer vacation?
NL: I would love to be on the beach in Panarea, Sicily. Dance all night at my favorite club. I’m blanking [on the name].
PS: Since you’ve been traveling all Summer long, what would you say were your top Summer essentials?
NL: I'm madly in love with my Chi Chi sandal. I never take it off my feet, because it's comfortable like Birkenstocks. It's glamorous with its woven top and a little bit ethnic, a little bit preppy. It's got everything going for it.
PS: What else?
NL: For evening, I want any one of my maxi dresses in my suitcase. I think that the lightweight silky maxis this time of year, pulled up so small and you can fit them in a carry-on - which I love to move around with carry-ons.
Find out Nanette's take on why you should own a leopard skort skirt, what to expect at NYFW, and more when you read more.