Something Old, Something New

Mesmerized by the magnificent colours of vintage silk scarves and blessed with a skilful hand, upcoming Canadian designer Erin Kleinberg is taking Hollywood by storm. With help from her internship at our sister publication FASHION Magazine, Erin was able to take her napkin doodles and passion for fashion to a new level. Tinseltown’s hottest It Girl Mischa Barton and Canadian sweetheart Lauren Collins have been spotted trotting around town in her chic vintage scarf shirts. FASHION18 caught up with Erin to chat about her exciting ventures and find out why this style star is on the rise.

FASHION18: What was your inspiration for creating shirts made from vintage scarves?

Erin Kleinberg: For as long as I can remember I always loved to draw. As I got older I realized I had to do something with it, so I started taking my drawing more seriously. I decided to make shirts from vintage silk scarves because I loved the vibrant colours and the way they reflect in the light. Also, using this material ensures each and every shirt is unique and one of a kind.

F18: How long have you been selling your designs?

E.K.: I started selling the shirts about a year and a half ago. They originally got a lot of exposure when they were used in OHM, a fashion show I directed at the University of Western Ontario.

F18: Where can we get our hands on a silky vintage shirt?

E.K.: This fall my shirts will be sold at Over the Rainbow and TNT (both Toronto retailers).

F18: Describe your personal style.

E.K.: My style is a combination of things: it’s a little vintage, a little trendy and a lot of my personal Erin favourites. 

F18: Who is your style icon?

E.K.: I really admire Ashley Olsen’s style. She always looks perfectly put together and somehow makes it look effortless.

F18: What’s in your closet that you can’t live without?

E.K.: I would easily die for my vintage Adidas zip-up collection. It is a possibility that I would also consider risking it all for my Marc by Marc Jacobs super skinny jeans.