I had the pleasure of meeting contemporary designer Robert Rodriguez at an event held to showcase the brand new CUSP department at Michigan Avenue’s Neiman Marcus location. Rodriguez was a special guest at the event so naturally he was swarmed with people waiting to talk to him – but luckily I was able to snag a quick interview. Here’s how it went:
Statement Scene: What are some things that you think are going to be really big in the next few months?
Robert Rodriguez: In fashion? The white shirt in every which way, whether it be a shirtdress, an oversized shirt or a cropped shirt – shirting is very important.
SS: What’s your favorite piece in your current collection?
RR: In the Spring collection, the one I just launched, I love all my marble prints and I think one of my favorite pieces, again, is one of my white shirts that I have in the collection. I think it’s just a really great piece.
SS: Have you been in Chicago before this?
RR: I was about 4 years ago, here at Neimans.
SS: What’s your take on style in Chicago or the way Chicagoans dress?
RR: I think it’s very…women here are very eclectic. It’s very much like New York. Very cool, very hip, very city-like.
SS: What are some pieces every woman should have in her closet?
RR: Of course the white shirt, a pair of leather jeans, a fur coat, a white tee shirt and a little black dress.
The takeaway from all this is, of course, that the white shirt is an essential. In need of a good one? Check out my picks below.
- Get this shirtdress. Whether you stash it in the closet till spring or wear it now layered with tights and a moto jacket, get it. Now. $155 at All Saints
- Fashion snobs may object to shopping at Gap but let’s be real: This is a perfect white shirt for a casual day out. It’s classic, All-American, no frills and durable. It’s worth it. $49.99 at Gap
- Wang does a luxe take on the classic with the addition of mother of pearl buttons and sheer panels. $425 at Alexander Wang
- If a button-down white shirt feels too unisex for you, opt instead for this seriously feminine white shirt. Now $185 at DVF
- Equipment is known for consistently nailing the classic shirt, thanks to perfect cuts and the use of prime fabrics. Get it for less here. $115.40 at TheOutnet
- The diagonal button and customizable flap give this shirt so much edge. My favorite pick of the lot. $228 at Bloomingdale’s