Bio
Sinje Lesemann is the designer of KOZA, a line of cozy baja sweaters and ponchos, baggy trousers, woven bags, and scarves we would like to live in forever. German-born Sinje launched KOZA in 2011 as a handbag line in London, but now runs things from Brooklyn and is branching out into clothing as well. A lover of effortless style and adventure, Sinje set out to create a line for the stylish, practical, and well-traveled woman. Getting love from Vogue, W Magazine, and several travel mags, it’s safe to say that she’s hit the target right on. Sinje Lesemann’s Twitter is a place of positive vibes and the KOZA Instagram is filled with stunning getaway shots, peeks at the KOZA S/S 15 line, and babe inspiration old and new. With the new KOZA website launching soon, this is one you’ll definitely want to keep tabs on.
Q&A
What are the pieces you absolutely cannot live without when on holiday?
Sneakers for tracking around and exploring. Flip flops for any other movements. Shorts. In the summer you hardly see me in anything else. Bikini. I take any opportunity to soak up some sunshine. Sunglasses. For obvious reasons. The KOZA Sinje Cross Body Bag for a hands-free, ready-for-anything experience. Not to self promote but it really is the perfect bag on holiday. It is lightweight and spacious and fits all my essentials: wallet, phone, keys, my little notebook and even my iPad.
What’s your most coveted piece in your closet?
I don’t really have one favourite as it depends on weather and mood but if I have to chose one piece I love the most at the moment I have to say my vintage airbrush Texas denim jacket that I got for Christmas. I was looking for an airbrush jacket for years and this one is everything and more! I haven’t worn it yet because its too cold but I cant wait for Spring and you will probably see me rock it all the time!
Would you say your collections tend to reflect your personal style?
Yes, for sure. The colourful , bold and adventurous vibe is definitely all me. I’d like to think that you can see a bit of me in every product I design. Whether its an unusual color combination, a graphic pattern, a unique texture or a clever detail (or all of the above clashed into one).
How would you describe your personal style?
Polychromatic power clashing with a carefree attitude and a sense of humor.
What inspires you most when designing?
I’m constantly inspired by travel and adventures and am extremely curious about the world around me. The clashes of senses and stimulations at the intersection of different cultures is where I am inspired the most. It doesn’t always have to be an exotic location though. I also get inspired on small “adventures” when I’m home. A bike ride through Brooklyn Bridge Park, going to museums, even shopping. Anything can be inspirational when you open your eyes and explore what’s around you. I’m also very inspired by anything color and texture and spend many hours doing research and collecting images of textiles, textures and details.
Who is your fashion icon?
I don’t really have a fashion icon per se. I like different people for different reasons and like to do my own thing. I love TLC’s style from the early nineties with the bold colors and oversized everything. I love MC Hammer’s look, and Pharrell Williams’ wife Hellen Lasichanh. She has awesome style.
You always splurge on and you always save on…
I’m quite modest so the only things I always splurge on are presents for my girlfriend and travel. I always save on taxis. Because I love to explore I really love to walk and take the bike whenever possible. And I don’t mind taking public transport when necessary.
What is your ideal travel destination and why?
I really would love to explore Central and South America as it’s the only continent where I’ve never been and I love all the textiles and colors that come from there. Cuba is probably top on my list, followed by Peru and Argentina. I love animals and nature and would love to go on a safari in Botswana to see Elephants, Lions and Giraffes. My parents are going to the Galapagos Islands in April and I’m very jealous as I’am also dying to go there. My next destination will hopefully be New Zealand later this year which I’m also super excited about as it’s been on my wish list ever since I saw Lord of the Rings.
Do you borrow from the boys? What do you borrow?
I always borrow from the boys, probably half of my wardrobe is menswear. I wear a lot of men’s jackets, sweatshirts and T-shirts. Luckily my shoe size is big enough that I can wear mens sneakers which are a staple in my wardrobe.
What is your #1 style tip?
Accessorize! Even if you don’t have an amazing wardrobe all the time you can make anything pop and interesting with good accessories. They show your personality and individuality and make sure you don’t look like anyone else. Also, have a sense of humor! Fashion doesn’t need to be serious. Have fun with it. Accessories are the easiest way to add some quirkiness to your wardrobe without looking silly.
