// MAY 2010

Beyond the hype: Louise Ebel

Fashion has to be playful. To me, it's an expression of the personality—the clothes I choose express my taste.

Louise Ebel 21 year old art history student, model, and blogger from Paris, France.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you live.

I'm a 21 year old girl from Paris. I'm a student in art history, a blogger, and occasionally a DJ. I'm also writing a memoir about women in XIXth century in France. I do way too many things at the same time, so I'm always exhausted! Right now, I'm in the middle of my final exams, and my brain is half-dead with all this studying.

Tell us about your blog.

I couldn't choose between art and fashion, that's why my blog is about both. I think they're very related—fashion is inspired by art, and art reflects the fashion of an era. Like in old portraits of ladies, the clothes were very important for the colours and the atmosphere. My inspiration for the blog was the Castiglione Comtess, who was pictured all her life by the photographer Pierre-Louis Pierson; she was the stylist and the art director of these pictures. Some people say that it's pretentious when I mix art with fashion, but I don't do it on purpose, it's just my passion! Fashion does not exist by itself, it's always inspired by art, and music, and movies, and street fashion. To me, clothes are the reflection of an era. They show the way people live, their manners and morals. That's why I love fashion history, it gives so much information about the past, much more than wars or reigns.

Do you have a favorite era or genre of art? A favorite work of art?

I'm a bit obsessed with Romanticism, late 19th century Symbolism and 17th century Chiaroscuro school, with Caravaggio or Artemisia Gentileschi. I couldn't choose one work of art, but I've always been fascinated about Beata Beatrix by Dante Gabriel Rossetti, I saw it once and I had tears in my eyes. I love this painting because of the story around it, and because of Elizabeth Siddal which has an important part in my life. I couldn't say how, but I can relate personally to this painting. I'm going to get tattooed with the dove carrying the poppy.

What other passions of yours don't we know about?

I'm also very into music, especially rock music. I wanted to be a rock star, but I realized I had no talent. I'm still dreaming that I'll do some music later…I'm waiting for my Gainsbourg! I have other passions that are a bit weirder, like cryptozoology, creatures of the abyss, esotericism, red wine and vampires.

How did you first get interested in fashion?

When I was younger, I didn't care about fashion at all, I was just dreaming in front of XVIII century dresses in paintings. I wanted to be dressed like Marie Antoinette, but I didn't care for what I was wearing everyday. It started when I gained self-confidence, I learned to play with clothes and built a character everytime I dress up. I had every style when I was in high school: punk, 50's housewife, post-punk, 60's psychedelic, it was always linked to the music I listened to. Fashion has to be playful. To me, it's an expression of the personality—The clothes I choose express my taste.

How do you describe the fashion scene in Paris compared to other major cities & fashion capitals?

I guess Paris is more classical, in some areas people are all dressed the same. If you go outside wearing eccentric clothes people will stare at you and judge you, and sometimes they will make bad comments. It's very annoying, and quite different from London's way of thinking. But there's a lot of interesting designers here.

What do you love about living in Paris?

I love the architecture of the city, and there is a huge culture here. We have museums everywhere, and you can find gorgeous places on each corner. It's so easy for photo shoots. Every street has a fascinating history, for an art lover like me it's a dream. There's a romantic feeling in this city, if you avoid the touristic areas you can find secret parks and streets, little museums...it's a city that you'll never know entirely. There is so much to see and so much mystery. I could never live anywhere else, even if I'm not a big fan of the French way of thinking.

Top 3 places to visit in the France:

Intimate museums like Musée de la vie Romantique or Musée Gustave Moreau, the Japanese Garden of Musée Albert Kahn, and the Park of Buttes Chaumont for Paris.

Describe your personal style.

I'm inspired by all the things I like: music, art, movies, designers, street style. I build my style with everything that is around me—that's why it's always evolving. My style always follows my tastes of the moment, like my interest for an historic or musical period. It can be unconscious, because my place is decorated with all the things that inspire me: engravings, feathers, books, hats, antiques, paintings…I'm completely inhabited by my universe—it's on my mind, on my decoration, and on my clothes. During the day, I don't dress up that much, but when I go out or when I do pictures I want to wear something that will make me feel happy and self-confident, which can be totally overdressed! Most of the time it's a expression of the duality of my personality, so it's both dark and naive, gothic and romantic. I like to wear feminine lace dresses, with very high heels, black jackets and 20's inspired headbands. I also mix influences from the past, with a modern and rock twist.

Favorite designers and places to shop?

My favourite designer is Ricardo Tisci, for his perfect mix of gothic and romantic, black and nude. But it's not affordable for me, so instead I go to Topshop, Zara, H&M. I also buy a lot of vintage, on Etsy and in stores like Pretty Box or Mamie. I'm also crazy about Miu Miu shoes, I'm starting to collect them!

The first thing you look at in another person's outfit is:

Shoes. I'm a shoe fetishist! I always look at shoes first. I think it's the element of the clothing that expresses style the most; it's more of a personal choice than the rest of the outfit. I also look at the jewels a lot, especially rings.

What do you splurge on?

Shoes! There are the only pieces of my closet that are designer.

What do you skimp on?

Trousers. I hate them, except 70's high-wasted pants. I hope they're going to be fashionable again, because I have difficulties finding pants like that.

A fashion rule you always break:

When magazines says that something if out of fashion, I just don't care. Fashion is not about trends that come and go, it's about finding your own personal style, the one that suits you and reflects your personality. To me clothes tell a story, most of the time when I buy something, it's because it reminds me of art or music, or a movie, or whatever. I'm pretty sure that they're all going to say that thigh-high boots are over for next winter, but I'll keep on wearing it, because they remind me of the 70's. I've been looking for them for ages, so I'm not going to quit them that soon!

A fashion rule you never break:

Don't go on the streets wearing panties/underwear instead of clothes. Fashion is not about exhibition…some things are made to stay at home! And please, a legging is not a pant!

What do you think is the most recent notable trend to appear/reappear, and what are your thoughts on it?

I'm not really a trend specialist, so I would say nude, which is something that everybody seems to wear. It has been my favourite colour for year, so I'm glad I can find it easier in stores. I like it because it reminds me of vintage lingerie, boudoir clothes and rice powder. It has a vintage and feminine feel.

What is the most underrated item in menswear and womenswear?

Hats! People used to wear something on their heads everyday in the past, and it added a nice last touch on the final outfit. I love top hats, for both men and women.

What is your next "must have" purchase?

A sheepskin coat, just like Penny Lane's in the movie Almost Famous.

Are there any fashion icons or famous people whose style you admire?

I'm crazy about late 60's/early 70's groupies, like Pamela des Barres or Anita Pallenberg. These girls were not afraid of eccentricity, I like Pamela's mix of retro and hippie. I also admire Brigitte Bardot, and Anna Karina.

What's on your iPod, bookshelf, and DVD player at the moment?

I'm reading books about femme fatales in painting and literature of the late XIXth century, and Caravaggio's biography. I'm watching Godart's movies, especially for the divine Anna Karina. My favourite bands of the moment are the Byrds, Tomorrow, and Kaleidoscope.

What can't you live without?

Music..

Next place you want to travel to:

I want to go to Firenze, for art obviously, and also because I'm in love with Italy. I've just been to Rome last month; it was the third time.

What is your personal favorite outfit on LOOKBOOK.nu by you, and by another member?

My personal favourite from me is Jardin Naturel de Paris (pictured above right), and my favourite outfit from a member is THIS OLD HOUSE by Shae Acopian D., I love her 70's vibe.

In the year 2015 you will be:

Writing books I hope, working with museums and still doing pictures. Still a groupie. Or I'm going to turn into Eddie in Absolutely Fabulous, that could be fun too.

What would you say to someone seeking general fashion advice?

It might sound stupid, but just be yourself and don't be afraid to dare. When I was younger I was very very shy (still now actually!), and wearing eccentric clothes helped me to be more self-confident and to express myself. It was like a therapy, and I think many people are afraid of standing out of the crowd.

Our last interviewee Juan Cocco wants to know: if God exists and one day decides to join LOOKBOOK.nu, how would he/she name the first look?

I have no idea, and I'm quite tired, I guess "God is not wearing Prada.” Silly, right ?

If you were reincarnated, what would you like to be?

A Kraken, or William Blake.

What should we ask the next interviewee?

What would you wear for your last day on earth?

Comments

Mademoiselle N.

gorgeous
finally she got an interview :) she really desveres it
i love her style and her personality <3

Veronica B. @V_Blagoeva

She is cute and clever. I love her sense of art -that girl is fascinating.

Melina G. @IMelinaa

I love her style (:
I think this interview is really inspiring just as her photos m a big fan of her :)

John L. @johnhavoc22

awh, I love her :]
her looks are cute
Great interview <3

Catia C. @katt_14

I love the interview, she inspires all of us :)
She has an amazing style, I wish I had her closet!

Yifen J.

Haha I feel like her interview is very inspiring :)
and she has such cute pictures~

Ashley D. @_ashleydy

I love Louise Ebel forever! She's so nice and gorgeous!

Katie B.

really inspiring.

Vitoria M. @undersheepskin

lovely.

Jessica W. @fascinationdrop

LOVELY.
i love her comment " a legging is not a pant."
xx

Juliette D. @juliettedam

J'ADORE LOUISE!
Elle mÃ©ritait vraiment cet interview :)
-----

You guys should totally interview Juliett K or Frida Johnson next month!

Camille A. @CAlexjandre

" A legging is not a pant"...I really wish the people where I live could understand that...but they don't and alas I get to be visually traumatized everyday. In any case I love love love Louise's fashion. So romantic and beautiful, and her pictures are great =)

Lena A.

i understand you soo much hahaha

Sabine B.

i totally agree with you!

Dani R.

louise can do no wrong :) great interview!

Yazzy E.

love this girl <3

Beny Ricardo . @benyrz

ohh... finally... i'm adoring her... she's so classy... ^^

Mary L.

this is very inspiring :)

Dora D. @Xorax

Such a beautiful and adorable girl.amazing interview.Good luck with your dreams

Mr. S. @sartoreality

Hands down the best Beyond The Hype interview I've read. She comes across intelligently and sophisticated. I don't doubt that she has the personaility to match her wonderful style. Big respect.

Emily L. @emilyluptonx

Yay, I love louise. In this interview she reminds me a little of me, i share her opinions on leggings and miu miu shoes and historic fashion, i actually love looking at old paintings in big houses and admiring the dresses and the way that silks and lace have been painted.

Flav H.

her interview was really inspiring

and I love her! her outfits are always perfect and she has amazing style

Zoë D. @ZoeDeluge

I really loved the interview, she seems very sweet and endearing, and sophisticated to boot! I really like that she knows what shes talking about when talking about art and music, its refreshing. the only thing, is she spelled "GODARD*" wrong. but i can over look it because she fabulous :]

Marta D.

I looked for cryptozoology on wikipedia eheheheheh ;-)

Haliman S. @HalimanSinggih

the amazing Louise Ebel.. :D

Caroline M.

she is beautiful inside and out. truly inspirational!
THANK YOU. <3

Tiffany K.

Ah, she's one of my favorites on here! <3

Jenna M.

she's amazingly talented. my inspiration:)

Chiho K.

I really love her style!

TRISNAHARTI T. @trisnaharti

I just love Paris in you! It's completely gorgeous!

Alexa M.

I love everything about her! (:

Benjamin G.

I think it's kinda strange that you think people stare at you in Paris when you're well dressed (as you mostly do), I'm from Paris aswell, I moved to Brussels for my studies, and everytime I go back to Paris I really feel free and can wear whatever i want to wear, unlike anywhere else but NYC or London.

Anyway, I like what you do, and have to admit I wish I could do as good as you.
You made me think about doing a Master in History of Art and Philosophy.... :)

Jerome C. @Themadtoter

Come here in Florence!!!!
I'll be glad to tour you here =)
(even though i know few places)
haha

i ENJOY YOUR INTERVIEW!!!
Great great answers!!!
xx

Fred G.

this girl is amazing, and she is so intelligent, this article has just inspired me to get studying for my art exam

Willabelle O. @willamazing

I love herrr
She's amazingg(: x

Sandra A.

I was starting to wonder when will her interview be taken

Savannah T.

Really nice

Sophia S. @SophiasUniform

Wonderful. Her personality came across so well. I like her even more now having read that and her style is just amazing. All the best for the future Louise!

Gobi S. @gobiSkyee

i LOVE LOUISE EBEL!

Anne K.

really lovely girl...sooo sweet:)

Andreas M.

Louise is so amazing! Her blog shares that there is so much behind her. The amazing fasion she parades here is just one piece of a whole universe full of great energy she has. Keep enjoying live Louise!

Sarah Z. @Itsaboutsarah

wow this was the best interview yet! she's just as she seems in her photos and her blog, - quirky and unique but very intellectual and sweet :)

Sarah L.

I have to agree whole heartily on the "fashion is inspired by art, and art reflects the fashion of an era." It's funny because I was thinking about this just a few days ago how their similar and such. At the Metropolitan they have the history of Woman's Fashion exhibit if your ever in NYC I'd recommend seeing it. I love the romantic period there's nothing quite like it. It certainly influences her style which is why I love her style so much.

Mie W.

I have been waiting for LB to interview you! You have an amazing style! :) Really enjoyed reading this

Ratna J. @permanazainal

haha i knew sooner or later louise e. will be on this page

Kelsey ~.

Louise Ebel to me is a fashion icon and a total inspiration! When I grow up, I totally want to move to Paris,France,and dress just like her!

Nash A. @nashalbacea

She's a genius, I must say. She's an icon for fashion, art, and all things that are inspirational. :)

Nancy T. @nancypmfl

aww love her, adorable outfits

Miłosz L.

She's so fascinating... But this interview's boring...

Aaron N.

eeeeeeeeeeeres increible :)

Rouge E.

finally! I've been waiting for this interview since the very start of LB. Louise is one of the only people who are top hyped who ACTUALLY has style and an interesting personality.

Laia N.

I do totally agree! She has personality

Barbro A. @barbroandersen

She's so wonderful. Really inspiring <3

Sandra M.

she is so amazing!

Gareth V.

She's got the looks and the brains.

Catia M. @catwithfreckles

I was a fan of her outfits, now I'm a fan of her personality. She seems so intelligent, that kind of person that really knows what is doing. The most inspiring interview from LB I've read

Kaylee C.

wow. i usually never read full interviews, but this girl caught my eye. me and her have the same taste in practically everything. <3 i am in love.

BÃ² viÃªn .

Wow

Shane S.

i've been getting updates on her since i first signed up for lookbook. she is an amazing dresser, and her eye just might take her places farther than the eye can see. She deserved this interview!

Laia N.

I don't normally like the interviews, most people interviewed have nothing interesting to say but Louise does surely have. I wish people could read these kind of things and truly understand them, being yourself is not that easy although everybody seems to think they're true to themselves

Bella Q. @citizenrosebudz

Pandora, you are a lovely dream. And clever and bright. I love the choices you'd come back as: a Kraken or William Blake. LMAO!

Orhedea R.

She sounds like a very interesting person!

Isabel S.

wow, this was really interesting to read.
she seems lovely

Sekhmet ..

Wanna see her with a pair of jeans!n :)

Zoey R.

this is so cute
but i like leggings instead of pants sometimes...

Anais L.

great interview :)

Diogo D. @imdiogo

she is amazing. i love her.

imdiogodantas.blogspot.com

April B.

this girl is truly an inspiration, and her blog is addictive!

Grethe Marita A.

Love the interview! Louise is adorable!

The Mac A. @purpleoutcast

beautiful : )

Billie J.

That Penny Lane reference won me over.

Renee N. @lavogue_ish7

i love..her..love ur connection of fashion with art..i think tha same...<3

Mary B.

i love louise, she is a fascinating young woman!

Victoria L. @stylemarmalade

She has style and brain and that makes her personality even better.

Daniella M. @deezzy3

i youtubed everything she talked about hahahaha
i loove her=)

Philip S.

i love her kind to dress! and i agree with the sentence "just be yourself and don't be afraid to dare"! sometimes it can be difficult to dare something! she's very creative i think!
(:

Katherine Y.

great, i think all her answers are 4 real

PY H.

gorgeous!!!! love her style so much

Katrina F. @ThisIsMissFox

Truly sophisticated!
I love Louise E.!

Ioana F.

I admire her a lot. She has great sense of fashion and amazing style. Also a great inspiration for art and I ridiculously love her classic outfits, although I am quite modern and extravagant sometimes in clothing.