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Style Q&A: Kristen Fanarakis

Style Q&A: Kristen Fanarakis
March 2018

Classic silhouettes, lasting fabrics, and European-style tailoring characterize this designer’s L.A.-made women’s wear brand, Senza Tempo



Kristin Fanarakis in Senza Tempo’s “Brigitte” dress

Q Spill a beauty secret.
A
I’m obsessed with skin care products. Biologique Recherche is one of the best brands out there. Its Lotion P50, carried by Toska in Mount Pleasant, is life-changing. 

Q We know you love shoes—which style do you wear most?
A
Since Chanel’s two-tone “Mademoiselle” sling-backs were rereleased in 2015, I’ve worn them almost religiously. They’re so comfortable.

Q Have a go-to handbag?
A
I’ve been traveling constantly over the past year, so I finally invested in a Goyard tote [the “Artois PM” is shown above]. It’s lightweight and folds flat in my suitcase—important because my shih tzu, Rocky, is often my second carry-on.  

Senza Tempo’s garments, including the “Diana” skirt, each have a contrasting silk lining.

Q What inspired your brand?
A
I was searching for a new black A-line skirt, but I could only find very high-end designer versions. I realized there was space in the market for wardrobe essentials that were on par with European quality, but didn’t cost a fortune.

Q What’s next for Senza Tempo?
A
Most of our items are fairly seasonless if you live in New York, like many of my clients, but in the coming months, we’ll be releasing lighter-weight items for women in warmer climates.

Q What’s on your bookshelf?
A
I read everything from WWII history to business books. Recently, I finished War Paint, about the rivalry between Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein.

Q Office-supply essentials?
A
I’m always taking notes to keep track of ideas and am in love with the colorful Christian Lacroix journals at The Living Room in Mount Pleasant.  

Resources: 

Photographs by (Fanarakis) Kate Thornton & (skirt-2) James Yarusinsky & courtesy of (lotion) Biologique Recherche, (bag) Goyard, & (journal) Christian Lacroix