A world traveler finds the versatile pieces that transition from Precision Run classes to transatlantic flights.
Styled by Equinox is a series following an Equinox member’s style evolution, as curated by a Shop Associate. Today, we’re spotlighting Shop Associate Deb Arnoff and Equinox Miami member Ilia Van Der Vaart.
When it comes to any look in Ilia’s closet, the keyword is: transitional. Because her work in corporate events takes her throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, and South America, she relies on unfussy, layerable looks that she can wear to the Club but also on cold flights and all kinds of weather, depending on which country she’s visiting. To create a look that suits her lifestyle, Deb thought about what she could wear when traveling for hours at a time. “She’s constantly on the move,” says Deb, “so the pieces need to be stylish and sophisticated and comfortable.”
Meet Ilia Van Der Vaart, Equinox Member since 2017
How would you define style? “Style means everything; it represents you.”
Personal style in three words: “Simple, elegant, and classic.”
Style icons: “Gwyneth Paltrow and Ralph Lauren.”
What is a pain point for you when it comes to fashion or deciding what to wear? “Simply getting dressed in Miami — the heat!”
How often do you visit Equinox? “Four days a week when I’m at home. When I’m traveling, I’ll do virtual sessions.”
Go-to workout or class? “I do personal training sessions and love Precision Run with David Siik.”
What’s most important to you about the workout gear you choose? “Comfort, fit, and looking good.”
What’s your signature workout uniform? “I always have a fanny pack. I use it to carry keys, headphones, my phone, and a hair tie.”
How Deb Styled Ilia
Deb, tell us about the look you chose for Ilia and why.
Deb: “I think the look is perfect for her lifestyle. We kept the color palette fairly neutral to be able to tie back to other things that she has in her wardrobe. She needs to look polished, sophisticated, and trendy, but also feel comfortable because she's often traveling for hours at a time. On a typical day, she's transitioning from maybe a work event to going to dinner with her girls to meeting a client to spending time with her family. So the pieces really needed to be versatile for all sorts of activities and for all temperatures because she's traveling to all different destinations, whether it's in Europe or South America. She's our international jet setter. For me, that meant she needed a look that doesn’t look like she’s trying too hard, but she’s the coolest woman in the room.”
What’s your favorite part of the look?
Ilia: “The high-waisted pants. It really accentuates my small waist.”
Deb: “I love pants, too. It's an awesome silhouette, the fabric is amazing, the color is perfect. It could be worn to work out or with a sandal for a brunch date.”
Did any of Deb’s selections surprise you?
Ilia: “Not so much this time, but sometimes she surprises me because I’ll think that a silhouette or cut won’t work for me, but when she chooses them, she knows that they're going to fit perfectly. And when I put them on I'm like, ‘Okay no, I love it.’ It’s like she knows my style better than I know my style sometimes.”
Where can you see Ilia wearing this look?
Deb: “Everywhere.”
Ilia: “Everywhere. I keep thinking that these pants will be perfect for my next flight because they don’t wrinkle. That’s so hard to find!”
How would you describe your new style?
Ilia: “I would say ‘simple elegance.’ I don't go for trendy. I go with things that are classic that you can put on three years from now. I have things that I bought at the Shop eight years ago. I mean, I take great care of my clothes, but that’s what I love about the clothes you find here — they don’t go out of style.”