A visit from

Shayna Arnold

 

 

How would you describe your home? Is there a specific style or design tradition you're drawn to?
"My home in Brooklyn reminds me of an old farmhouse, which is special to me because I grew up going to my grandparents' farmhouse all of the time. The building is over 100 years old, and I love the original charm in every detail. I think, aside from that original aesthetic, my home is influenced by my travels, especially to Japan, Italy, and Switzerland."

 

What's your favorite room at home?
"My favorite room at home is the living room. It sort of works as a makeshift studio for my partner and I, but also a space where we can relax and unwind. We like to burn incense and listen to jazz and settle into a slower state."


 


Where are you from, originally? Tell us about the house you grew up in.
"I am originally from Dayton, Ohio. My dad designed our house, which was lovely and specific to our family. My room was upstairs, between my brother’s room and twin sister’s room, with an alcove window seat. It had a huge window overlooking the hill that our house was on; very dreamy spending time reading and journaling in that space. We also had a built-in stage in our playroom, which led to many performances between the 4 of us and our friends."

 

 


Shayna wears Black Organza Ghost Dress and Cotton Corset in size Small.

 

We hear your mum had a shop growing up. What do you remember about that?
"Yes, my mom opened her own women’s boutique when I was 16. It had always been a dream of hers, so it was so wonderful to see it come to life. I assisted her with the buying and also worked at the store. Betsey Johnson, Nicole Miller, True Religion Jeans, and Free People were some of the brands we carried at the store; it was such a special time."

 

 

Shayna wears Black Cotton Beatrice Blouse and Bloomer Shorts in size Small.


Tell us about your approach to styling. It seems you work sculpturally, including household objects and materials… 
"My approach to styling is informed by my original design studies and ongoing interest in nontraditional materials. Throughout my studies, I constructed clothing consisting of materials such as grip tape, hex netting, fish leather, neoprene, and laser-cut leather. Aside from styling, I continue an ongoing personal practice of textile experimentation, which is documented in my photobook ‘Swans’, that I self-published in 2023."


How much is collaboration a part of your styling? Are you spontaneous or more fastidious?
"I think it just depends, but I tend to lean more fastidious. I can be spontaneous, but no matter what, I like there to be an underlying connection between each piece of a collection to make it whole, and to tell a story. I also want to support the designer, and make sure the styling aligns with their overall design intent."

  

 


Shayna wears the Lamb Top & Play Shorts in size Small, styled with Pleated Apron and Flower Napkin.

Have you repaired or restored anything recently?
"Recently, I have not, but there are a few things on my to-do list. I have a quilt that my great-grandmother made that is beautiful, but the batting has started to unravel. I would like to learn how to restore that and maybe also make my own quilt. I like the idea of something handmade that can be passed down to family or friends."


What’s one house museum would you recommend visiting?
"I would recommend visiting Malabar Farm State Park in Lucas, Ohio. Malabar Farm is the former home of the writer Louis Bromfield, who had an interest in sustainable farming after spending time in India and France. His home has an eclectic collection of decor and art, all situated on vast farmland. Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart were good friends of Louis Bromfield, and had their wedding here!"

 
 


Are there any sculptors, artists, or photographers that influence your work?
"Deborah Turbeville, Sarah Moon, and Francesca Woodman are three photographers that are a constant inspiration to me. I can always revisit their work and feel renewed."

 

When it comes to the history of clothing and fashion, do you have an era, culture, or tradition you’re particularly drawn to?
"I believe my love of vintage and fashion started at age 9, when I began volunteering with my mom at Goodwill fashion shows in the Dayton area. Each show consisted of a beautiful collection of vintage clothing from the 19th and 20th centuries. We would both wear 3-4 looks per show, and I remember how my mom would always be so inspired by the vintage, which really left a lasting impression on me. She loved the idea of wearing something from another era with her more modern pieces, which very much aligns with how I approach fashion myself."

 

 
Shayna wears Sofia Nightdress & Petal Silk House Bow.


Tell us about Sensoria! What are you working on, and where is it heading?

"Sensoria is an off-price selling platform that I started with Emma Sayer and Paulena Lynch in 2023. Our goal is to reinvent past inventory from designers, which in turn creates an exciting, cost-effective, and sustainable shopping experience for consumers. We are launching our Market 004 on April 10."

 

 

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