An Artist’s Modern Menswear-Inspired Style

Russian-born artist Olesya Ianovitch has two favorite things: art and travel. Since she made New Orleans her home two years ago, she has been fulfilling her lifelong dream of working as an artist, and travel is a key part of her artistic process—she sketches, writes, paints and takes photos while exploring new places around the globe. Throughout her adventures, she picks up clothing and accessories to remind her of the places she’s been and the people she’s met.

While she enjoys mixing up her style to suit her mood, her ensembles almost always include a nod to classic menswear. After seeing some of her favorite pieces while photographing her gorgeous live/work studio in a converted century-old rice mill, I thought we should ask her to share some thoughts on style.

Classic, fun, menswear-inspired with a pop of color or an unexpected detail.

My “traveler hat,” a fedora made by Escada; my g-star boyfriend black pants I got in Clermond-Ferand, France, the Capital of Michelin tires (fun fact, how cool!); white cotton tee; cow print socks from Vermont (I got from my dear friend and huge supporter Marianne Van Meter and I wear them to all my important meetings; they are my good luck charm.); white leather oxfords (menswear-inspired), which I found in the capital of shoes, Valence, France (they make the best shoes there!).

White T-shirt and boyfriend ripped jeans or jean shorts.

1. My black leather biker jacket (a gift from my love). It’s the best timeless classic piece that dresses up anything.
2. Colorful socks that I wear mismatched, always!
3. Lancel cross-body bucket bag (super practical and goes with everything).

Killer heels from Louboutin. I know I won’t wear them everywhere, but for just a split second of that joy!

Most fashionable friend(s) and why: There isn’t just one. A couple of them, all from across the pond. My Russian friend Katya, who lives in London, and travels like 10 countries and destinations per year. She pulls incredible finds from all over her travels, and mixes it so well with daily Londoner life. A Belorussian beauty living in Paris, and modeling her way fiercely though European magazine covers: Natalia Krau. These ladies have a natural sense of fashion. They travel and find beautiful pieces to add to daily outfitting; that makes them unique and fashionable. I think being in an urban setting like Paris and London is a great influence for personal style that molds with time. And it’s great to be friends with ladies who have pure heart and style!

Lots and lots of bracelets! Layers of chunky gold, painted bracelets. A watch is a bracelet, too!

Being a huge sucker for men’s wear, these are both menswear-inspired:
When I lived and worked in New York, I briefly got to work on a project with Michael Bastian. He is a phenomenal men’s designer, so I look to his Instagram feed—@mbastiannyc—for fresh ideas and mixing. Prabal Gurung has inspired me in personal style. I have been fortunate enough to have worked with him on a fragrance campaign back in New York. He really got me, gave good advice, and kind of taught me to “own it.” So now when I watch his feed—@prabalgurung—for inspiration, I recall my interactions with him back in NYC and I take away daily inspiration and good memories.

I am lucky to have traveled and met fantastic women with great style. I love watching my Instagram feed, personally knowing the women behind the scenes. These ladies inspire me day in and out:
For everyday layering, pop of color and fun, I look at Estelle Pigault. I recently met her and completely fell in love with the way she puts together her looks. We already made plans to go shopping in London this Spring! Her feed is @stelouchebabouche. My dear friend in NOLA, Juley Le, inspires me daily with her impeccable picks, well-organized lifestyle, and beautiful simplicity. Her Instagram handle is @juleytl. Also, I did a creative collaboration with Canadian stylist Katya Nikolajew. She is a true layering guru. Her Instagram feed—@bewolffashion—is phenomenally colorful.

Local shop: Krewe D’Optic, located at 800 Royal Street. They have a mini coffee bar and a courtyard, super charming. I bring all my friends there who visit New Orleans.

Online shop: Farfetch and & Other Stories

Best jeans: Madewell (they fit like a glove and are budget-friendly) and Rag&Bone.

Makeup: Bobbie Brown bronzer, Spear eyeliner, Lance volume mascara.

Skincare brand: Decleor from France. I found it at a Decleor spa in Vonnas, France. It’s a whole town owned by 3-star Michelin chef Georges Blanc. Anyhow, the Decleor skincare and spas are the real deal, and they sure know their quality products!

Signature scent: Killian Parfum “Good Girl Gone Bad”