Introducing Kristen Taekman

We are excited to welcome Kristen Taekman as our luxury fashion ambassador.  Kristen is a professional model and has graced the covers of some of the world’s most renowned fashion publications in Europe, Australia, and the United States.  She is also known for her role on Bravo’s reality show, The Real Housewives of New York City.

With her new beauty line and blog, Kristen is busy being an entrepreneur most days.  Other days you will find her with her two children and husband Josh Taekman, who is the co-founder of EBOOST®.  Kristen will be taking some time each month to share a little about luxury fashion right here on the Discover.Luxury blog.  She also answered a few questions so we could get to know her a little bit better.

Dot Luxury:  What was the first luxury item you owned?

Kristen:  The first luxury item I owned was a gorgeous Rolex . I was 19 years old, living in Paris and working as a model. I was at the airport, headed home to Connecticut for the holidays when I spotted this gorgeous Rolex at one of the stores in the airport. I bought it right then and there! It was one of those “hard to believe” moments. I still wear my Rolex on a daily basis; it’s a classic piece that will forever be considered luxurious. Every time I look at my watch, I am reminded of the fact that I worked hard enough at such a young age that I was able to buy myself a Rolex!

Dot Luxury:  What does luxury mean to you?

Kristen: Luxury means effortless beauty; soft supple fabrics, rich fragrances and timeless elegance.

Dot Luxury:  What’s your “must have” luxury item?

Kristen:  My must have luxury item is the fabulous Manolo Blahnik BB pump (in every color). They are a timeless style made from high quality materials that look and feel fabulous! They are impeccable and extremely comfortable (comfort is an absolute must on my list).

Dot Luxury:  What is a daily luxury you enjoy?

Kristen:  My daily luxury is my amazing Cle de Peau foundation. It is by far the most luxurious makeup I have ever used. Their makeup and skincare collection personifies luxury and elegance!

Dot Luxury:  What was your biggest luxury splurge?

Kristen:  My biggest luxury splurge occurred while I was living in Paris. On a daily basis I would walk by Prada and stare at the fabulous window displays. One day, I saw this beautiful coat on display and completely gave in! I spent all my rent money buying this fabulous coat. Good news, I still have my Prada coat and continue to wear it! But I’m not so sure how I ended up paying my rent that month.

Dot Luxury:  Favorite luxury brand?

Kristen:  I have various brands I love but if I had to pick one, I would have to say GUCCI. I’m a huge Jackie O fan and I love looking at vintage photos of her in the brand. Those trends inspire me today!

Dot Luxury:  What’s the future for fashion in regards to luxury?

Kristen:  I think many consumers are starting to understand the importance of buying high- quality items. Spending a bit more on something that will last many lifetimes (not just a season) is completely worth it. Buying staple, high-quality items ends up being more affordable in the long run.

Dot Luxury:  Why did you want a Dot Luxury site?

Kristen:  Having a luxury site is the ultimate compliment! This is new and exciting and completely fits my brand and personality. I live in NYC, one of the most luxurious cities in the word and fashion is my speciality. It’s a perfect fit!

Let Kristen walk you through the world of luxury fashion each month right here on Discover.Luxury.  You can get her posts and more delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletter.