Toni Garrn: These are the parallels between New York and Berlin

For the current shoot for the fashion label Lascana, model Toni Garrn (32) has returned to the setting of her adopted home of New York. She has many memories of the start of her career – and her first own start-up – associated with the Big Apple. But Garrn’s life is now centered in Berlin – also because of her family. In the interview, however, the 32-year-old sees many fashion parallels between the US metropolis and her current home in the German capital.

Dear Toni, the Lascana shoot took place in the backdrop of your former adopted home of New York. How much do you miss your former life in the Big Apple?

Toni Garrn: New York City is a very special city for me. I associate NYC with a really beautiful and exciting time. When I was 15, I was already commuting back and forth between my home in Hamburg and New York for castings and jobs. After graduating from high school, I moved there permanently – that was obviously a pretty big step: moving away from my parents, all by myself, to such a big international metropolis.

But because of my job, I never felt alone there. I lived in Downtown for over ten years, which is in the south of Manhattan and my absolute favorite neighborhood. I loved the vintage shopping and Broadway scene here, but also the salsa community that is spread out everywhere – there is hardly any other city with so much international flair.

What memories do you particularly associate with New York?

Garrn: My international modeling career began in New York. I signed my first major advertising contract here and was walking in major fashion shows after just a short time. This is also where the idea for my “Super Flea Market” came from. At first it was a pop-up flea market that I organized every year, with the proceeds going primarily to support my foundation.

This has now become my first own company – the world’s first luxury second-hand platform, where a large portion of the proceeds goes to various non-profit NGOs. In this way, we combine luxury with social added value and set an example for sustainable consumption. There are so many beautiful dresses and shoes that are only worn once on the red carpet. I want them to have a second chance.

Today you live in Berlin with your daughter. Have you ever regretted the move?

Garrn: My life in New York City was a really great and important time for me, and I look back on that time fondly. But since becoming a mother, I have different priorities. For example, it’s important to me not to have my family too far away.

Berlin is a very international and diverse city – I like the lifestyle, the many inspiring people and the range of restaurants. Unfortunately, I rarely manage to go out. Professionally, there are great opportunities here to work and exchange ideas. There are so many great people who, like me, want to advance their start-ups and have inspiring visions.

Where is fashion more lived – in Berlin or New York? What are the style differences?

Garrn: When I think about the fashion style of New York and Berlin, I see a lot of parallels. Both cities have looks that are as unique and individual as they are. The typical style is a mix of trendy, fashionable and casual elements. Casual streetwear is often combined with cool designer pieces, and there are many great vintage shops that offer real treasures. In fashion, anything is possible there, which is incredibly inspiring.

In the pictures of the autumn/winter campaign you pose in a wool coat, sequin top and palazzo pants, among other things. Which fashion trends are particularly popular in the new season?

Yarn: Knitted pieces are still popular. When the days get shorter and colder, I love cozy and cuddly oversized sweaters. Knitwear can also look really elegant. At the Lascana shoot, I wore a great faux leather skirt with a tight black knitted top – a perfect dinner outfit.

In general, layering looks are always a good idea, for example with a blouse under a casual sweater and a wool jacket. When it comes to “sparkling styles,” I believe “less is more.” For me, a cool, eye-catching piece, such as a blazer, is perfectly showcased when the rest of the outfit is kept understated.

What are your personal must-haves for fall and winter?

Garrn: When it comes to fashion, I love my black vegan leather jacket and long winter coat that jazz up any fall outfit. Cowboy boots are a must – they can be styled both casually and elegantly. I’m not a cold person, but I love being nicely wrapped up.

Which colors dominate this fall and winter?

Garrn: You can never go wrong with classic autumn tones like burgundy, olive green, royal blue or aubergine. Personally, I also like to go for timeless colors like black, beige or gray. I appreciate subtle looks and durability that can be combined in many different ways and don’t go out of fashion so quickly.

You are a fashion role model for many. Where do you get inspiration for your style?

Garrn: I’m very fascinated by fashion and trends, and of course I always get to know a lot through my work. But I don’t chase every trend. I choose clothes that I like and that I feel comfortable in. And I also like vintage. My motto: I’d rather have a few favorite pieces that I like to wear often than a lot of pieces that don’t really suit me and just gather dust in the closet.

Do you have fashion role models whose style do you admire?

Garrn: I still love the style of the “Sex and the City” character Carrie Bradshaw. Even though I don’t necessarily dare to replicate her looks, I have always been a huge fan of her creative and bold outfit combinations.

SpotOnNews