Former model, Kristina Sutton, is now working on designing her label, Lakris
Kristina Sutton is a former fashion model from Siberia, and now she’s moved onto another realm of fashion world – designing her new fashion label, Lakris.
At age 15, Kristina was discovered by the modeling agency, IMG, and she proceeded to travel around the globe for her modeling work. Prior to that, the model grew up in the Middle East – where her inspiration for Lakris came from.
“When you live in an environment where you have to be respectful of the culture and religious aspects, it’s bound to have a significant impact on you consciously and subconsciously. That’s why I have been always fascinated with women from the Middle East and the mystery that comes from them not exposing their skin,” says Kristina.
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The first capsule collection by Lakris revolves around one centerpiece – a timeless and versatile shirt/dress named the “Evolution.” It is a design that the former Russian-born fashion model created to keep her look effortlessly chic, while allowing for easy outfit changes to meet the demands of day and night.
Lakris sueded silk “Evolution shirt/dress” can be styled, buttoned, and wrapped in such a way that you can wear it to a fancy dinner, a night out, or walk a red carpet while wearing the same thing (maybe just styling it differently).
Lakris is officially carried at H. Lorenzo, Guild LA, Church Boutique, and Fred Segal, and the brand just had their debut fashion show during LAFW.
Kristina was previously selling privately, until one of her outfits got major press at the Teen Choice Awards. Former Fifth Harmony member, Lauren Jauregui wore one of Lakris’ looks.
I got to sit down with the designer, Kristina, and talk to her about the brand, her transition from modeling to designing, and the new collection. Check out the interview below!
How did fashion modeling prepare you to then journey into making clothing yourself?
I have been modeling around the globe for 15 years. Being a fashion model allowed access and insight into many of the most famous fashion brands. Like anything you spend a lot of time doing, you pick things up and before you know it, I felt like I belonged and have a voice to contribute.
You are from Russia, you partly grew up in the Middle East, and you have traveled the globe. Where do you pull inspiration from for your clothes?
My inspiration comes from years spent in the Middle East and Japan. I have been always fascinated with both cultures, by women who are not exposing their skin, and those who cover up in luxurious fabrics. It’s so mysterious and sexy at the same time!
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Tell us a little more about Lakris. Who is Lakris for?
My designs are for women who are not afraid of making a chic fashion statement, yet still keep it pretty casual at the same time.
What’s your favorite piece from the new collection?
All of my pieces are equally amazing and unique, but I guess my favorite piece from the new collection – Kimono 2.0 shirt. It’s a versatile, trendy shirt/dress with kimono sleeves. Currently obsessed over kimonos!
Dream celebrity to dress in Lakris?
Chiara Ferragni.
What was it like seeing your work on stage at the Teen Choice Awards?
Absolutely epic, I mean I can’t even describe how I felt that day. I had tears of joy!
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What’s next for the brand?
1.Build the brand.
2. Introduce new fabrics and prints.
3. Keep following the same path and allow myself to fall deep in the process of creating new things! I found my true calling!
Photos by Joe Garcia and courtesy of Lakris
