In both writing and presence, Lynn Yaeger is sui generis. Her unfiltered fashion voice – whether for Vogue, New York magazine or, for three decades, The Village Voice – flows with unsparing wit, personality, and good sense. Her steadfast, eccentric style – some cross between a Belle Epoque illustration, an antique doll and a Comme des Garçons muse – remains wonderfully nonconformist. A passionate, discerning collector of fashion and miscellaneous antiques, Yaeger finally joined Instagram not so long ago where she shares glimpses of the treasures spread throughout her New York apartment; that is, when she’s not serving up brilliant commentary on the state of the industry today.
In what ways do you see exploration as a natural part of the design process?
I think if you are not willing to explore, to try crazy stuff, to make mistakes, your work will ultimately become pretty stale.
What are some of the themes and ideas that you would like to see designers exploring through the next few seasons?
I think each designer has to follow his or her heart, and I would never presume to suggest a theme. Well, ok, if forced, I am always longing to see a ratty down-at-heels ballerina on a runway.
How have these past years shaped the way you explore fashion through social media and/or the virtual world?
I finally joined Instagram in the depths of the pandemic. Now I follow every antique jeweler in the world.
How do you, personally, explore what’s new and exciting in fashion?
Well, I am a famously compulsive shopper, so I am exploring virtually all day long, every day. The internet has opened a whole new universe of unboxing – and sadly reboxing and returning – but I also still love brick-and-mortar adventures.
