One of the best parts about my job is that I get to meet a lot of different people, and it’s even cooler when I end up getting a new friend out of it. That’s exactly what happened with today’s CCF Loves feature. If you’re looking for a local designer to covet, today’s your lucky day!
I met Christina Monley (AKA Christina Karin…which you might know her better by, as that’s the name of her brand) a couple of years ago. It was one of those business meetings where zero business was accomplished. We just totally hit it off and have been friends ever since. Now I don’t want you to think CCF Loves is just about my friends (although many of these people are….I have good taste in people, what can I say?!) but when I think someone is doing something cool in Chicago, they’re the perfect candidate for this category. Now not only has it been great to get to know Christina over the years, it’s also been exciting to see young talent grow. No designer has the exact same aesthetic throughout their entire career (especially in the beginning). Just like personal style — it’s always evolving (although mine continues to involve very wide pants…including very wide Christina Karin pants). So if you don’t know Christina, I think it’s time you get to know her.
Shall we?
Why Chicago?
Chicago is such a gem. Growing up in Boston, it was all about moving to NYC, and I lived there briefly, but it just wasn’t for me on a daily lifestyle basis. NYC is great and I am there for work every month, but it’s no Chicago. Chicago has the best of it all while still being real and livable. The people, the city, the lake. You can work as hard as you want, feel the energy, but still stop to smell the roses. I feel at ease here and I definitely call Chicago my home. From a work standpoint I think there is more room for designers to grow, and fashion is evolving here much faster than other parts of the country that are already saturated. Additionally, Chicago is a great place to raise a family as my husband and I have a 2 year old son named Colton and we love to take him to parks, the zoo, museums, and beaches.
What are your favorite things to do in the city?
I’ve always been an explorer and love seeking out paths less traveled. Lately, I’ve been enjoying exploring areas of Logan Square and Humboldt Park. My favorite place to visit is the Garfield Park Conservatory, for both inspiration and to let my son explore and run around (anytime I can accomplish both these tasks it’s a major score!) The newly renovated Cactus Room is so unique and beautiful, as is the entire place. It has been my secret spot for a long time now. In terms of Chicago views and the best way to see the city I highly recommend the Chicago Kayak Tour, whether you’re from Chicago or not. It’s fun and you’re actually doing something instead of just sitting on a bus or boat. You kayak the riverways starting from North Avenue and it’s such a beautiful way to see the city from the lake perspective. It’s definitely grand and impressive and makes you think of Chicago as a moden day Venice. Of course being a designer, I do love art, home decor and creating thoughtful and stylish interior spaces for my Bucktown brownstone. One of my favorite places is Redefined Decor in West Town where you can find a one-of-a-kind selection of decorative objects and home furnishings – anything from a lucite bench by Charles Hollis Jones to a Burlini Gilt bronze sculpture. I love meaningful art and you can definitely find it there!
What’s the most memorable moment in your career so far?
To be honest there have been so many milestones for me, but beyond the celebrity/entertainment pomp and accolades it’s the real-life moments that touch me the most. A few weeks ago when I was traveling, I was sitting in the airport waiting for my flight to board when I saw a woman in one of my Spring/Summer pineapple print dresses, styled perfectly and looking gorgeous. That was it for me. Having spent many years building and designing a lifestyle brand that women identified with, I felt this was my true moment of glory. Of course, I immediately wanted to take an inconspicious pic to share with my husband…but the angle was awkward and I’m definitely not type who would introduce myself as the designer. I’d rather sit back and let them look fabulous knowing it’s really the woman making my clothes look great. That was a moment I will never forget.
Any words of advice for aspiring designers?
Think hard about what value and creativity you are planning to add to the market and spend years developing your production logistics and business strategy before you start.
What’s your favorite piece from your current or upcoming collection and why?
Of course I love every piece, but my metallic leather cape jacket is by far my lastest favorite. It is specially created by oxidizing a metallic crackle effect onto suede and it’s so spectacular and unique. Another thing I love about it is it can be worn dressy or casual and layered with other great pieces from all the collections. It’s a perfect staple that adds a touch of something special to every woman’s wardrobe.
Want more? You can shop Christina Karin online and stalk her on Instagram 🙂
Photos by Kirsten Miccoli
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