Berrin Noorata finds most of her style inspiration from fellow subways riders — an extra-special perk of public transportation, for sure — but, funnily enough, she's just the kind of completely cool and effortlessly lovely style star who would make us do a double take if we spotted one of her ensembles waiting on the platform. A publicist and brand strategist, working with companies such as Repetto and Surface to Air, Noorata's daring and dreamy getups have certainly gotten her noticed before — she's was named one of Mens.Style.com's 25 Women of Fashion in 2009.
The greatest style lesson I've ever learned:
"Confidence is all that matters. — Mom"
My boldest summer-style move that I wouldn't attempt any other time of the year:
"Showing off a little side-bra."
My constant source of style inspiration:
"Can’t say there’s any person I look to for inspiration…I get most of my style tips from riding the subway and just people-watching. The other day I saw a girl on the train wearing a leather wrap around her braid…I am now obsessed with finding or making one for myself."
My first major, big-ticket style purchase:
"It was a piece of jewelry when I was 20, working and still living at home. My mother taught me to invest in jewels…not stocks."
My favorite up-and-coming designers:
"I’m obsessed with KTZ."
My most surprising, out-of-left-field fashion find:
"I bought a ripped, Badgley Mischka beaded gown at a random sample sale once, because it was under $200, without an occasion to wear it to at the time. I fixed the beads and mended the tear by hand and ended up wearing it to my cousin's wedding a year later."
My three favorite places to shop:
"I’m not a fan of shopping…but I guess I’d say flea markets. I love searching for treasure."
Styled by Laura Pritchard, Hair by Bethany Brill, Makeup by Tiffany Patton
Look 1: Rogan destroyed-denim jeans; Tsumori Chisato white shirt with blue ruffle; Vintage jacket; Oscar de la Renta Stone Box in Reconstructed Amber, $2,390, available at Oscar de la Renta; Sigerson Morrison Corsita Suede and Lucite Open-Toe Sandal, $270, available at Sigerson Morrison.
Look 2:
Rick Owens beige jacket; Electric Feathers silk jumpsuit; Melissa for Alexandre Herchcovitch stiletto shoes.