Growing up in California, surf and skate culture heavily influenced my style as a teenager. The distinctive fashions surrounding the sports were probably my first way of identifying myself through clothing. So, although I haven’t worn bobby socks or baggy jeans in over a decade - I still love a good flannel and was thrilled when Vans recently came back in style!
Royal Native is a brand who’s ethos revolves heavily around global, bohemian style with a sporty influence – thanks to it’s founder and designer, Hilary de Roy. Hilary began designing the line with African wax print shorts because they appealed to both girlie girls and tomboys of all kinds, redefining "sexy" as something we can all relate to. Equally at home on the beach in Montauk, worn with a billowing blouse in St Barths or a sneaker and slouchy T in the city – Royal Native shorts are the ultimate in effortlessly cool.
Hilary and I worked together back in our days at DVF (she ran the flagship store, I was in the corporate office) and when she showed me the new line – I was immediately hooked. So it seemed only natural to partner with her for her Spring/Summer campaign and lookbook. Inspired by Dogtown and Z-Boys, Hilary wanted the vibe of the shoot to feel very skater girl, west coast, flirty and youthful. So the two of us pulled a bunch of accessories from our own closets, and had a ball mixing and matching the brightly printed shorts the way we’d wear them ourselves.
The line is still in it’s toddler years, but has already expanded into beach bags and tops; while cropped pants, bell bottoms and scalloped styles are just a few of the goodies we have to look forward to next season from the Royal Native!
[To view the full Royal Native Lookbook, click here: Royal Native Summer 14 LB]
After the shoot, I was curious to know more about Hilary's design process and inspiration. So I interviewed her! Check out my behind the scenes video interview with Hilary, click HERE and learn how Hilary channels her wanderlust into clothing - right here in NYC.
*Wanna snag a pair of your own? Now you can get 20% off!! Just enter discount code NATTYSTYLE at checkout on www.TheRoyalNative.com from now through the end of August!
*AND click below to find out how to WIN A FREE PAIR OF SHORTS AND A TOTE!!!
[HOW TO WIN]
* Just follow both @Natty_Style and @theRoyalNative on Instagram!
*Bonus points for regramming and retweeting the contest!
*Good luck!!
xx
Natty