NAME: MARY-LAURA KLESARIS

Age: Hell No

Astrological Sign: Pisces

Profession: Medical Doctor by day/1920’s Soiree Decorator by Night and a Mother in between.

Residence: On the border between Brooklyn Heights and Cobble Hill

Favorite color: I lean toward all jewel tones – emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, etc.

Favorite Fashion Designer: Typically, I could care less about labels and designers because I wear mostly vintage clothing and many of it has no labels, but I recently met Carolina Herrera at a party and found her to be so kind, elegant, gracious, and regal. I was so charmed and impressed by her that I would say my favorite designer is Carolina Herrera for her fashion AND her presence.

Favorite Shoe/Accessories Designer: For shoes, I like original 1920’s oxfords with a small heel (don’t care who makes them just as long as I can find them!); For vintage-inspired hats, I order custom-made chapeaux from Ellen Christine Millinery in NYC.

Favorite Parfum: Lavender Oil because I find it very calming and not overbearing.

Favorite Stylish Film: Breakfast At Tiffany’s

Favorite Hangout: Clover Club on Smith Street in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn

Favorite Place/s: Exploring old barns and bridges in rural Pennsylvania

Favorite Cocktail: Johnny Walker Red on the rocks and the Moscow Mule

Who is your style icon? My Dad and Michael Arenella (bandleader of Dreamland Orchestra). Both encouraged me to look my best and hone in on my own unique style. Also, Audrey Hepburn for her effortless elegance and my friend Sarah Liston for the way she mixes feminine with masculine.

What item of clothing would you rather starve for? Vintage Stockings and hats (especially original 1920’s cloches)

What is your overall impression of how people dress in general and what do you recommend that they do otherwise? I feel like many people have either given up on trying to be fashionable (i.e. Jeans, T-shirts, flip flops) or that they are slaves to every single fashion trend that comes their way without ever considering what they want or what actually suits them. It took me many years to really find my particular style and I did that by choosing clothing that I like and that flatters my figure – without regard to what style/skirt length/heel height is “in vogue” at the moment.