We See a Lot of Luxury Fashion—Here's What Matters Right Now
Photo:
Courtesy of Moda OperandiInsider Shopping Cart is a monthly series where the figures behind fashion’s biggest luxury retailers break down the items they’re actually spending their money on.
Moda Operandi has a dedicated spot within my Google Chrome bookmarks tab, and as a fashion editor, that says a lot. Whenever I’m scoping out a big new luxury purchase, Moda Operandi (or as my fellow editors simply call it, Moda) is usually the first place I check to see if they have it in stock (and they usually do). Founded in 2010 by former Vogue editor Lauren Santo Domingo, the retailer is a relatively new player on the luxury scene yet has quickly gained a reputation as a go-to among industry insiders.
Routinely one of the first to have that fresh off-the-runway Prada collection or that hard-to-find colorway of Bottega Veneta bag, Moda Operandi’s eclectic selection of exclusives is just the tip of the iceberg. The New York–based retailer also does things a bit differently than its shopping competitors like offering extras like digital trunk shows (limited-time buying events that allow shoppers to order from upcoming designer collections before they even hit stores) and global showrooms that take the digital experience brick-and-mortar with immersive events and opportunities to browse before you buy.
Since Moda Operandi always seems to be one step ahead, it made perfect sense to ask the stylish minds behind the brand about the pieces that matter to them for the season ahead. Keep clicking to see what each member of the team is adding to their shopping cart right now.
Photo:
Moda Operandi; Who What Wear.“Growing up in places with warm climates year-round, I have little against a sweltering New York summer. While spring is a hard (and short) act to follow, come June I lock up the light layers and bring in the bold, bright, and skin-baring. Summer’s lease has me diving headfirst into effortless yet emotional dresses. Khaite’s champagne maxi from Pre-fall is top of my preorder list. A wide-leg pant is the new summer short for me—I’m looking no further than By Malene Birger’s lightweight linen pair, styled back to a swimsuit or matching shirt. Like the weather, when it comes to accessorizing, it’s all about the extremes. You’ll find me in either a statement heel (day and night) or a minimal flat when running around town.”—Jasmine Kirk, buyer
Photo:
Moda Operandi; Who What Wear.“While the transitional months call for layers and tailoring, New York summers always bring out the sexier side to my style: I live in heaps of mixed gold and silver jewelry that stays on (sea or shower), strappy flat sandals, and skin-baring dresses (like Christopher Esber’s crochet) that are comfortable in commuter heat. I’m also very into miniskirts again (blame Miu Miu), and I’ve just bought House of Aama’s printed second-skin maxi which I’m excited to wear to go out. My other main concern about summer dressing? AC. Oversize oxfords and blazers work, but Peter Do’s knitted sleeves are a (supremely more stylish) godsend for the office and frigid restaurants alike. Thank you, Peter.”—Tatiana Hambro, editorial director
Photo:
Moda Operandi; Who What Wear.“My style is constantly evolving—I feel like it is dependent on my energy. The only consistency in getting dressed for me is feeling sexy and confident in whatever I wear. As I am aware of the trends, my style is anything but trend-driven. Right now, I am in my ‘It girl’ season for the summer, which consists of glamorous heels (Amina Muaddi's are my go-to, Mach & Mach is fire as well), minidresses/skirts, and oversize cargos, crop tops, mini bags, and vintage tees. Summer gives me the perfect reason to show some skin. That’s why it’s my favorite season for dressing.”—Gabby Cadet, fashion team coordinator
Photo:
Moda Operandi; Who What Wear.“While I love to embrace the fall and winter months with layering, tailored silhouettes, lofty knits, and endless beanie options, by the time summer rolls, around my aesthetic errs on the side of nonchalance, or shall I say, ‘sprezzatura?’ Cool, calm, and collected is the end goal à la Toteme, By Malene Birger and Posse (a Moda exclusive!). I am always on the go with my energetic pup, so when it comes to shoes, a chic flat from The Row is a must. What’s in my cart for swim? An asymmetrical one-piece from Moré Noir has already made checkout.”—Kelsey Lyle, buyer
Photo:
Moda Operandi; Who What Wear.“My overall style is really a delicate balance between masculine and feminine. With the summer heat quickly approaching, I’m excited to find new ways to stay true to my personal style without overheating during those balmy city days. For me, it’s about proportions: a tiny tee with oversize pants or a micro mini with something voluminous up top. I’m loving these Stella McCartney low-slung trousers to offset a slinky Christopher Esber shirt—it’s a harmonious match made in heaven. I’d throw all my essentials into my new Teen Jodie (and you’d be surprised how much I can fit in here.)”—Kristine Lam, social media director
- Explore More:
- Insider Shopping Cart