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Spontaneity is real.
Erika Altosaar is an 18 year old art student from Toronto, Canada. See her work at www.ealtosaar.blogspot.com.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I go to school for studio arts in Montreal (I actually have a blog that follows the work I do in class, which I started as a project to monitor my growth - a personal development type of thing.) but am originally from Toronto. I struggle with differentiating the two cities - they are so different albeit being a mere 6 hours apart! All I can say to that, is that Toronto is home and I love it, but Montreal is the best city to be broke in.
What do you love about living in Montreal?
I love the fact that I can see 6 coffee shops from my window, walk to 10 in under a minute, and never know how many there are in the city itself. It's great, too, because you can walk around alone even at 5 in the morning feeling safe. There are always people on the streets - coffee coffee, buzz buzz buzz.
Why is art so important to you?
The world is an empty slate without it, in my opinion. It's the outlet by which I create meaning in mine and other people's lives.
Describe your personal style and its influences / inspiration.
I get inspired by everything. I was inspired by an eggplant, once. I know that sounds crazy! Ha! It's weird - shapes and colours really affect me, my moods, and my decisions, and so yes, an eggplant!
Favorite designers and places to shop?
Student budgets allow me to shop at Value Village and at the Salvation Army because they're inexpensive and fabulous. I don't let my eyes wander into the world of 'legitimate' (if you have that philosophy) fashion because I simply can't afford it!
The first thing you look at in another person's outfit is:
The waist! That's where most elements are found, amiright? You've got the shirt, jacket, potential scarves, pants, belts, necklaces, etc etc all in that general area - whether it fits there makes or breaks the whole look in my opinion. And shoes. Shoes are crucial.
What do you splurge on?
Coffee and really nice buttons.
What do you skimp on?
Accessories. I've inherited great pieces of jewelry from everyone in my family - I'm set for life (or something like that).
Do you have a favorite family heirloom?
Yes! I have two! I have a silver and turquoise ring that my mom 'gave me'. And by that I mean that she got it in Taxco, Mexico, wore it until I was old enough to recognize it and how perfect it is. It's essential to know that I borrowed it once two years ago and have been 'borrowing it' ever since. My second favourite is a broach that my grandmother JUST gave me. She wore it to Thanksgiving dinner and I complimented her on her excellent taste and exclaimed to her, "I LOVE THAT. MUST HAVE IT." and she said, "If you like it so much and if it will make you happy - it's yours."
A fashion rule you always break:
Well I have red hair, and I break every convention that I shouldn't be breaking. There is no such thing as a 'clash' in wardrobe now that we aren't in the 80s anymore.
Your hair is so beautiful - I have to ask, is your hair it's natural color?
My mother would kill me if I told you that it wasn't real, so while it's in print, and for her sake, of course it's natural!
Favorite color(s) of the moment:
Black, white, and anything neutral - absolutely.
What is the most underrated item in menswear and womenswear?
For menswear I would have to say that the pant is underrated - they are a big deal! For women it's definitely lingerie - if you feel good over and under, you feel good inside and out.
What do you think is the latest trend to appear, and what are your thoughts on it?
CAPES! And i'm so happy for it! I think they're fantastic - suddenly everyone looks like an aged french woman and I couldn't ask for better (because women in France dress up more and more with every year that they age). Although, if muffs could come back in style, I'd be okay with that too.
What is your next must have purchase?
Uh, really obnoxious boots that go up above the knee - it must happen.
What's on your iPod / bookshelf / DVD player at the moment?
Lately the music I listen to most is a combination of Susumu Yokota and A Tribe Called Quest and anything that fits between and beyond those lines. On my bookshelf I have all of my school textbooks and years of readings, but right now my main focus in literacy is found in Foucault and Nietzsche essays - I can't escape. Oh, and also, Harry Potter IS a good series. As far as movies go - just follow the direction of French Film, explore it, love it, and move onto International films and all that is glorious.
Something about yourself most people don't know:
I'm actually really super modest. So modest to the point that I actually can't even handle compliments - it's the worst!
Next place you want to travel to:
Morocco, no question. My father travelled in his youth, and of all of his stories, his greatest are from Morocco. He said that when you're thirsty thirsty thirsty from the heat all day, there is nothing more rewarding than digging your fingers into a fresh fig. He said there's nothing like it - Morocco is the only place where you can get the real thing, and I wish to experience a real fig!
What is your personal favorite outfit on LOOKBOOK.nu by you, and by another member?
My favourite look of mine is Toothpaste because it epitomizes my every day wear and my colour palette of choice. My favourite looks on Lookbook by other members is the hardest question you'll ask me because there are so many, but I'll stick with four (as long as four still isn't too many!)
Robyn W.'s Pour me a dirty martini is great because she made the hat herself. I really appreciate that, on Lookbook. You frequently see people making their own creations, like, can I have it? If you dig a little deeper you'll find out that she created an ever growing series of them. She keeps me updated and each is better than the last.
Joshua K.'s Chocolate on stripes is my favourite look posted by a guy in this joint because he's always looking good, and I mean, just look at the bag.
I think that the most consistent fashion contributors are Hannah S., and Sheryl O.
What can't you live without?
I can live without anything material - that isn't my life. The only thing that I wouldn't be able to live without, absolutely, is my family. Or rather anybody that means something to me. I struggle with losing people - I guess that's something most people don't know about me, either.
What is the ultimate showpiece in your closet?
My Stacey Zhang (she's a local Montreal designer and she's fabulous) vest/throw-over, it kills it.
What should we ask the next interviewee?
What do you have in your fridge?
By the year 2010, you will be what/where:
I'll be in my third year of university - hopefully studying abroad. I dream.. a lot.
Our November interview Ian L. wants to know: where do you see yourself in the year 2030?
Art direction, Art, Something, The world.
What would you say to someone seeking general fashion advice?
Spontaneity is real.
Marie A.: October 29, 2008
i actually dislike red hair but hers is pretty.
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
ah heh thank you
Nazy N. (@NazyN): March 27, 2010
I LOVE RED HAIR! AND I LOVE RED HEADS EVEN MORE-have not come across one in life that I haven't-there the best people!
Adeline R. (@adelinerapon): October 29, 2008
Eggplants ! eggplants ! eggplants !
This interview made me laugh ! Yay !
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
merci, adeline! t'es trop gentilles!
Vlad C.: October 29, 2008
she is so gorgeous. i love her.
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
THX
Lourie C.: October 29, 2008
wowowow amazing!
Renée S.: October 29, 2008
Love the interview. It's nice to know a little more about what's going on in your head! Haha. You say you can only allow yourself to shop at Value Village & the Salvation Army, but I just wish I could! There are no such shops around here. I think a second-hand €3 top has more value than a €30 new one.
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
renee, you are the spokesperson for found treasures, so i seriously appreciate that and take it to heart heart heart.
Vanessa V.: October 29, 2008
:) this was a great read.
Megan M.: October 29, 2008
erika je taime!
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
and i, you! you, the girl who makes any photograph a beautiful one (whether you're in it, or the one taking it!)
Megan M.: October 29, 2008
ohhh, you're far too kind and are making me blush. i just looked through your recent artwork, so wonderful! i love it all, truly.
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
as far as people go, you're one of the best.
Calli C.: October 29, 2008
(L)
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
coffee soon, ok?
Love Child S.: October 29, 2008
Erika A, like your style a lot but now that I've read this and found out what's on your mind, i think it's possible that I love you already. You're amazing.
Erika A.: October 29, 2008
that's really really nice, thank you so much.
Chelsi M. (@chelsim): October 29, 2008
congratulations on the interview! Love your style and beautiful hair!
Dani G.: October 29, 2008
I waited so long, wondering when finally lb interviews you. I was so curious to read and I'm absolutely not disappointed. You're me style-queen and you always seemed to be such a nice and interesting person and this interview is a proof for that!
I say that with real sincerity.
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
i seriously don't even know what to say to this - i'm unbelievably flattered.
Anahi P.: October 29, 2008
Hey beauty I actually didn't know that your color hair is natural, and I'm surprise! cause it is totally lovely, and I agree with your fav picture... you are so sweet!
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
i'm so happy you said that because i think the same of you! you are so naturally beautiful - keep it up!
Top Cat *.: October 29, 2008
Erika, you are amazing!
I love French cinema too :)
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
ah, then top cat, YOU are amazing.
Pretty L.: October 29, 2008
I really liked her interview. she seems someone im most likely to relate with (im equally as modest) and isn't afraid to be real, creative and under budget when it comes to clothes. Erika, if you read this, your gorgeous!
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
delightful delightful delightful! thank you!
Innes *.: October 29, 2008
you're my FAVE
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
<3
Flaming A.: October 30, 2008
you're really beautiful.
and your art is amazing.
eggplants really are a beautiful color
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
you understand - fantastic! you are fantastic!
Nathalie L. (@annettella): October 30, 2008
I LOVE the colour of hair. Not in a creepy way.
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
aha thats not creepy
Yan C.: October 30, 2008
i will read it carefully~
Nadia M.: October 30, 2008
aww erika you are so sweet :)
n.n*
run away with me :*:
Erika A.: October 30, 2008
you flatter me the most!
Katie N.: October 30, 2008
Lovely lovely girl. <3
Zoë D.: October 30, 2008
ERRRRRRIIIIIIIIKKKKKKKKKKAAAAAAAAAA!!!! YAYAYAYAY I was so so so excited to see they FINALLY interviewed you. your such a beautiful person!! but you would never admit it >.> I wish you werent so busy or I wasent so busy haha, this interview made me miss our conversations. =[. promise when you are a famous "art something" you won't forget about me or any of your other friends on lookbook!!
-love, zoe.
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
that was serious! thank you! and i won't i won't i won't!
Hanic K.: October 30, 2008
good intervieweeeee, miss eggplant!
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
i'm a little bit embarrassing!
Janoo ..: October 30, 2008
I was wondering when you'd be featured!
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
<3
Joshua K. (@StreetEtiquette): October 30, 2008
good stuff Erika, yuri said it would be good so i expected this :D
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
haha josh you're my favourite.
Yuka I.: October 31, 2008
oh yayy finally! good job erika. i think hanna should be next!
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
i thought she should have come first! thank you yuka!
Carson N.: October 31, 2008
you're awesome haha
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
YOU're awesome.
Andrew P.: October 31, 2008
i want to move to canada now
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
ahah
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
ahah
Christine T.: October 31, 2008
they finally did an interview on her. :D haha
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
<3
Rose B.: October 31, 2008
you are so cute :]
i have really enjoyed reading your blog, thank you!!
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
i should be thanking you for reading it! i'm flattered!
Tunu K.: October 31, 2008
lovely read.
i have heard similar tales from my dad about morocco
the silver,food, weather
its my aim to visit in the next 2 years
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
you are much closer than i, it would be a shame if you didn't.
The Shy Blogger .: October 31, 2008
aww, i enjoyed reading this interview. and i laughed about the eggplant. it's nice if somwone can ge inspireed by such simple things, because thats what the world is made of.
and i want a cape sooo bad!
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
too much love.
Lis L W.: October 31, 2008
You are so perfectly perfect.
i love your hair.
so extraordinary
Erika A.: October 31, 2008
coming from a cute cute cutie girl like you? i'm touched!
IzabelÄ— J.: October 31, 2008
wow i loved your works on your blog (Y)
Erika A.: November 2, 2008
that means so much to me! thank you!
Dr. Rank0r W.: November 1, 2008
don't get stuck in the focus in waists, nor in Foucault. Remember: Don't build walls, ride lines. Your looks are amazing, always eloquent, keep up the good work. Use thought as a tool for material change, trace and follow the rays of imitation and surf on transgressive signs. Work non-stop. Fail faster, fail better. Never stop. Do only passion - whatever you do you must love it.
"The question is not: is it true? But: does it work? What new thoughts does it make possible to think? What new emotions does it open in the body?" (Massumi's foreword to Mille Plateaux). Good luck with your art studies.
Erika A.: November 2, 2008
do only passion - perfect. thank you for this comment, sincerely.
Lina L.: November 1, 2008
Finally an interview with Erika!
Erika A.: November 2, 2008
=)
Angie M.: November 1, 2008
i loove this interview its funny !
Erika A.: November 2, 2008
you're too much! seriously, the best.
Zonia S.: November 1, 2008
looks like someone became an icon :)
Erika A.: November 2, 2008
zonia - you are a star.
Chelsea A. (@AkaChelsea): November 3, 2008
I'm super glad to hear that I'm not the only human who has been inspired by food! My friends always tell me I "must be crazy", but I find a lot of inspiration in stuff like cupcakes and even kiwis...
You're fantastic, by the way!
Erika A.: November 3, 2008
you're obviously fantastic, yourself!
Joyce K. (@joycekwok): November 3, 2008
love you so!
Erika A.: November 3, 2008
kelly h and i agree that you're the cutest little thing!
Joyce K. (@joycekwok): November 3, 2008
& you've got a new follower (= would be so following your blog babe! awesome.
Erika A.: November 3, 2008
aw you flatter me way too much
Stephanie J.: November 4, 2008
your hair is BEAUTIFUL, if I could pull off that color I'd dye it in a heartbeat.
anyway, fantastic article!
Sheryl O.: November 4, 2008
you're exactly the way i picture u as!
such a heartwarming interview
Erika A.: November 4, 2008
nothing i love more than the praise of sheryl o!
Sheila M.: November 4, 2008
You are just so lovely.
Nat B.: November 4, 2008
Love the interview. It's nice to know a little more about her.
Tania M. (@taniamirella): November 5, 2008
looovely hair, lovely style, lovely person!
accept this compliment :)!
Benjamin B.: November 5, 2008
I love you. You are so profound for you age. You have a great concept of Life.
Come to Australia, I personally think it is full of inspiration. I love this interview, it was very raw and true, Erika, you're lovely
Erika A.: November 5, 2008
you are far too generous, boy! but thank you thank you thank you!
Benjamin B.: November 6, 2008
You are more than welcome, You make me so inspired to succeed.
Erika A.: November 9, 2008
gah - you'll succeed. you have a very very good character. and i have no doubts about you!
Benjamin B.: November 10, 2008
I hope so! you are very kind
:)
Lyn A. (@aversosweet): November 5, 2008
i love the color of your hair! :)
Erika A.: November 9, 2008
:D
Yc Z.: November 8, 2008
love your style
Erika A.: November 9, 2008
ah! that makes me so happy, thank you! =)
Clara S.: November 9, 2008
This is what I love about lookbook.
its an insight into peoples lives which turns out to be more rich, interesting and colourful than anything someone could write or fabricate.
go lookbook. :D
Erika A.: November 9, 2008
that was a wonderful thing for you to say!
Ashley M.: November 9, 2008
awww erikia you are just the cutest thing. plus the most darling clothes.
Erika A.: November 10, 2008
i adore adore adore you ashley moe!
Kate J.: November 10, 2008
are you kat's sister?
Erika A.: November 10, 2008
we're cousins! i'm so happy right now! hahah
Kate J.: November 11, 2008
I lived on the same floor as her in rez. small world non?
Erika A.: November 11, 2008
do you two still hang out? WE SHOULD GO DANCINGGG
Kate J.: November 11, 2008
yeah i am taking a semester off, but in January we can dance the night away.
Isabella R.: November 11, 2008
lucky bum!
do you speak french as well?
Erika A.: November 11, 2008
it's my first language!
Punky M.: November 11, 2008
I've said it so many times before but... I do love yor hair!
In the other hand... you're so funny! I laughed at the eggplant part...
Erika A.: November 11, 2008
so i can keep doing what i'm doing then? thanks punky!
Ula F. (@adamantwanderer): November 12, 2008
smart interview, and your style is lovely:)
Erika A.: November 14, 2008
<3
Laura F.: November 13, 2008
i never read these, but i like you so much i had too. I want to go to montreal this following summer. One goal would be to meet you, =]
Erika A.: November 14, 2008
montreal is fantastic. you absolutely must.
Nelson D. (@ndcjunior): November 13, 2008
Lovely! maganda talaga!
Suzanne ..: November 14, 2008
ugh i'm such a creep haha, danika was lurkin facebook and she was looking at pics of you and i was like "holy shit ive seen her on the internet somewhere". small world.
anyway great interview, i really love your artwork.
Erika A.: November 14, 2008
danika is my favourite person in the world. please tell her that i love her and extend my hellos and 'i miss yous'
Ffion N. (@ffion_nia): November 14, 2008
i enjoyed reading this
some absolutely amazing clothes, and i like the way you think. that sounds creepy, but yeah :)
Erika A.: November 16, 2008
that's not creepy! it's incredibly flattering! thank you.
Miss M.: November 15, 2008
toothpaste ist my favourite=) your so pretty
Erika A.: November 16, 2008
by virtue of saying that you are an incredibly kind hearted person - thank you.
Eloise N.: November 16, 2008
You're the only one i know who looks so darn good in red hair, really and lovely interview. :D
Erika A.: November 16, 2008
ELOISE YOU KILL ME IN A GOOD WAY
Stella P.: November 19, 2008
I've got those black boots.
ps. Great interview, your style is so very influential.
Erika A.: November 22, 2008
you're a doll.
Chloe H. (@maelstormical): November 21, 2008
glad you did the interview. love your artworks about those abstract lines (if that's what you're trying :p) love you more.
Erika A.: November 22, 2008
you're too much, too kind, thank you thank you thank you.
Bebe S. (@bebesharp): November 24, 2008
red-head power. *fist* You're looks are amazing.
E ..: November 26, 2008
this is great. I can relate to your eggplant thing, I love its colour and unique texture. Reminds me I have one that has been sitting in the fridge for quite a while.
Sherley L. (@sherleylueis): January 11, 2009
call me late cause i just discovered this. erika, youre such an inspiration! great interview!
:)
Kathy K.: April 9, 2009
you were like the first person on here i saw, and i thought you were so amazing! i love your style and your hair is the most amazing thing ever! everytime i see it, i just want to dye my hair red again, haha. you're one of my inspirations :)
Frederique Marlene K.: April 26, 2009
Hello my dear! I like ur personnality! im french and i really appreciate ur sophisticated but chic style! Keep it up!
frederiquekragbe.blogspot.com
Bisou
Sasha Z.: April 28, 2009
she is so chic
Rose A.: May 4, 2009
love your style, and the fact that you shop at salvation army: its so rewarding finding something that you know you will wear over and over, yet it didnt cost much :D
Tiffani G.: May 16, 2009
mis erika its about time someone stood up for redheads. imean what the fuck is the problem with redheads wearing red. i think you can whear whatever you want. bee it a green barrel or a pair of yellow pixies. do what you do girl cause you seem to be doing something right.
Amanda A.: June 6, 2009
looooove this girl. been following her style even before i entered the world of lookbook.
Alice K.: June 17, 2009
that part about how you wanted to visit morocco.. omg, you are the best writer i have ever ever read? known? not known? anyway, you are amazing!
Erika A.: August 1, 2009
gah forgive me on the late reply here.. but thank you! i don't think i can thank you enough for the compliments you've paid me..
Tim ..: June 23, 2009
fashion.
Farah J.: July 3, 2009
YOU'RE AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Erika A.: August 1, 2009
THANK YOU!!!!!!!
A G.: July 13, 2009
i love her looks!
Frida C.: July 31, 2009
Perfect! (:
Erika A.: August 1, 2009
ha, aw, quite the word. thank you, i'm very flattered.
Sergio M.: August 15, 2009
awh, erika you're so cute :]
Erika A.: August 28, 2009
<3
Pascale S.: August 16, 2009
ahh great i really like her outfits and she seems really nice. :)
Leane J. (@ayeitsleane): August 17, 2009
wow your name is so estonian =O haha.
I love love love your style:)
Erika A.: August 28, 2009
right on the money. i see we share a mother land!
Ahlam M.: August 30, 2009
you are amazingg. i'll be honest here, you are my idol <3
Erika A.: December 2, 2009
EEEEP <3
Rhi J.: November 12, 2009
i took a look at your blog: you're amazing
Erika A.: December 2, 2009
ah, aw, than you so much. :)
Mer A.: December 8, 2009
erika, erika, erika!
you are just marvellous. your colours, your drawings, the soft music on your blog, the faces you make in the photos, and the simply adorable outwear you have!
you are a very kind and beautiful person that i hope will be happy as an art-something someday soon. i'm looking very forward to see your artwork in galleries or museums. can't get myself from reading your blog and admiring your art! keep up, girl.
lots of love from istanbul, merih
Hanne W.: December 23, 2009
yay, i'm so glad i found this interview. of all looks i've seen on lookbook, hers are the prettiest ^^
Dann D.: April 2, 2010
wow wow WOw You are one of the mosT simple people I have read interviews about..
Thats Just plain awesom...
:}