Erin Pollard describes her wardrobe as “modern-conscious-bohemian-classic.” Portrait by Clara Pafundi.
Pollard founded Underwater Weaving Studio a creative weaving atelier offering workshops as well as one-of-a-kind baskets.
By Amanda Eberstein
After spending the past two decades working in the fashion industry, Erin Pollard, the executive director of fashion partnerships at Vogue, has witnessed her own sartorial sense continually evolve. “I don’t like to put too many restrictions on my personal style as it lives and breathes with what’s happening in life and culture,” she says. “If I had to nail it down, I’d say I have a modern-conscious-bohemian-classic wardrobe.” This ethos works well for Pollard’s new passion project-turned–entrepreneurial endeavor, Underwater Weaving Studio, a platform for her own collection of hand-woven baskets (she also creates DIY kits and hosts monthly classes at locations throughout New York). Here, Pollard, who resides with her husband, Roll & Hill founder Jason Miller, and two children in Brooklyn and Montauk, reflects on some of her current inspirations and must-haves for Spring.
Are there certain fashion brands, pieces, or aesthetics that you gravitate towards?
I’m drawn to female designers innovating in fashion responsibility and circularity, with interesting, modern silhouettes and fabrics. Generally, I gravitate towards brands such as Chloé, Isabel Marant, Stella McCartney, Brunello Cucinelli, Dries Van Noten, and Zimmermann.
What is your go-to look for work?
In New York, I commute to the Condé Nast offices, and lean towards classic wardrobing. I invest in neutrals—black and white and camel, with modern tailoring. My work wardrobe has become more casual, but it usually includes a blazer.
Zimmermann
Cream blazer
Chloé
Silk blazer
What are some of your favorite finds from Bal Harbour Shops?
Some pieces I’ve saved: A pair of white vegan pumps from Stella McCartney that I bought 10 years ago and still wear all the time; a Chloé handbag from the Clare Waight Keller era, and a red Alaïa dress from The Webster. The world became a happier place when I discovered The Webster—it enhanced my love of fashion and the power of great curation.
What are some of the pieces that you are coveting for spring?
Pieces that feel modern and minimalist but imbue the freedom and rebellion of the ‘60s and ‘70s, and the classic simplicity of the ‘90s. For example, Chloé dresses and Zimmermann skirt suits.
Stella McCartney
Elsa mules
Frette
Pure cashmere throw
What design items are you currently coveting for your own home?
Frette’s design and quality is unparalleled. A made-in-Italy cashmere throw blanket from the heritage brand is the ultimate quiet luxury.
What is your ideal outfit for an evening out?
Lots of leg, a blazer, and a basket!
What are your go-to shoes for day and night?
For day, a rope sandal from Isabel Marant, boat shoes or a weird sneaker from a brand like Chloé. And cowboy booties for night.
Chloé
Nama sneakers
Isabel Marant
Duerto suede cowboy boots
What is your favorite beach ensemble?
A black Toteme bikini, Johanna Ortiz cover-up, Isabel Marant square sunglasses, the Ida hat by Gigi Burris from the Webster, and a woven tote from Underwater Weaving Studio.
What beauty items do you swear by?
Vintner’s Daughter and Fré SPF mineral moisturizer. My skincare routine is minimal but my dedication to sun protection is not.
Go-to luggage?
Rimowa’s Classic Check-In.
Gigi Burris
Ida Hat, available at The Webster
Rimowa
Classic Check-In Luggage
