The 50 Most Stylish Women In New York Right Now

Written by Vashtie Kola

After Complex released The 50 Most Stylish (Male) New Yorkers Right Now, there was a lot of chatter. Controversy sparked on why some guys were listed while others weren't, and debates started on why some were given a higher ranking than others. Needless to say, when Complex asked me to write the list of The 50 Most Stylish Women in New York Right Now, I was immediately honored and excited, but my excitement was shortly met with anxiety. I could already feel the claws scratching at my eyes.

50 people seems like a little, but it's actually a lot. I can't just list someone and explain that she was mentioned because she has "rad style." No, I have to explain it in just the right words while citing just the right background information. I spent a lot of time on this list. Complex contributed some names, I added and deleted my picks, I tirelessly researched, wrote about, and listed in order each suitable candidate.

Style is very important to me, like it is to many. It has nothing to do with the designers one can afford, the stylist one can hire, or the stylish person one can bite. It represents who you are and represents your essence without you having to utter a word. So without further ado, here are The 50 Most Stylish Women in New York Right Now.

Vashtie Kola is a music video director and has directed for artists such as Justin Bieber, Kid Cudi, Kendrick Lamar, and Joey Bada$$. She designs her clothing line, Violette and in 2010, became the first woman to collaborate with and design her very own Air Jordan sneaker. She has creative consulted for Life+Times and Ecko, and also throws a monthly '90s party called 1992.

RELATED: Four Pins - Nick Wooster's Most Stylish Men (and Woman) in the World

Occupation: Photographer, Illustrator, Blogger at Garance Doré

Garance is the perfect person to start off this list because while she dresses herself like that cool French girl she is, she also photographs stylish women around New York City even better. She features her style inspirations, including some women on this list, on her popular street style blog.

Occupation: Designer at Jen Kao

Designer Jen Kao's style is divine. She throws together imaginative looks in a relaxed way. This is reflected in her designs, which are more like pieces of art with their architectural aesthetic. Jen's clothes cater to a girl who wants it all: to turn the boys' heads with sensuality, but also turn the girls' heads with couture.

Occupation: Market Director at Nylon

Don't let Michelle's girl-next-door looks fool you. Yes, her style is adorable enough to cuddle, but it's also decadent enough to drool over. With a selection of high and low, Michelle's style reminds us that fashion is what you make it!

Occupation: Actress, Singer of Elevator Fight

With talented, gorgeous, and fashionable parents, it's easy to see the apple doesn't fall far from the tree with Zoe. With an acting and singing career on lock, this petite powerhouse is known for her hippie wild child looks whether she's walking a red carpet or strolling through Soho.

Occupation: Fashion Stylist

Giovanna's style is something like that out of an old Italian film, where the heroine is strong, rebellious and fashion forward. She might wear a dress with nylons, but she isn't afraid to speak her mind. She gives classic feminine looks with a whimsical tone, full of character and spirit. Bella!

Occupation: Blogger at Man Repeller, Designer

Leandra first got noticed through her witty personal style blog, Man Repeller, where she indulges in fashions that guys don't approve of. She doesn't mind though, because it's all in fun, which is what getting dressed is all about.

Occupation: Eco-Activist, Model

You'd think after having beauty, brains, and activism going on, she wouldn't have time for fashion. Not Green Queen Summer! Though she's giving talks on sustainability innovation and attending rain forest benefits, she's not wearing hemp shoes and cargo pants. She's dressed chic and precisely well. Thanks to Summer for reminding us you don't have to wear Crocs to care about the planet — you can be both fashionable and environmentally aware.

Occupation: DJ

Lindsey is hard not to notice. She's tall, slender, and her pretty face is only magnified with the big prescription glasses she wears. You can find Lindsey DJ-ing some of the best events in town wearing simple and interesting pieces. She always looks comfortable and in a unpredictable city like New York, you can't take that for granted!

Occupation: Makeup Artist

With her '70s shag cut and a style reminiscent of a '60s Cher (if she was goth), Kristin has a reputation of beating some serious face. She's worked with some major fashion photographers, like legendary Arthur Elgort. Under those endless, blunt bangs is an outstanding makeup artist who takes her style as seriously as she does her craft. With ensembles that consist mainly of either black or white, bold shoulders and abstract fits, Kristin always makes statements with the most minimal of pieces.

Occupation: Jewelry Designer at Monique Pean

Beautiful, talented, and socially conscious, Monique Pean is not only doing it and doing it, but she's doing it more than well. Her jewelry line is not only eco-friendly utilizing recycled gold, it also supports ethical trade and conflict-free diamonds. Monique's personal style is sophisticated and daring with bold conversation pieces for jewelry (usually her own) and simple, yet colorful get-ups.

Occupation: Media Mover and Shaker

Normally a well-endowed lady like Bevy would find a hard time dressing up with the girls in front row, but not her. Harlem-native Bevy Smith has perfected her "Girl About Town" look. With a simple wrap dress and powerful heels, she is always dressed to kill. Known for her "Dinner With Bevy" events that are famous for connecting all the right folks, Bevy Smith is the ultimate hostess with the mostest.

Occupation: Designer at Sophomore, DJ

Designer of her own brand, Sophomore, which launched in 2003, Chrissie is consistently dressed in vintage Americana. Rocking high-waisted denim, bell bottoms, and plain tops, you'd think that the rock classic "American Woman" was written about her. Her brand is a representation of that '70s Lower-East-Side look that is still trendy today. I can dig it.

Occupation: Stylist

With a client list that includes Jay-Z, Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Missy Elliott, and Zoe Saldana, you can gather than June knows about fashion. With a bubbly and colorful character, you can't help but gravitate towards her. Then, there's her style which is always magnificent—never even a hair out of place. She's managed to perfect the turban and have a reality show based on her work! 'Nuff said!

Occupation: DJ, Model

One-third of the DJ trio The Misshapes, this downtown darling combines high society looks with dark edgy style to complete a stunning wardrobe. Leigh gravitates toward shapes that are always splendid; from peplums to bodycon to peacock feather shaggy coats. Leigh's phenomenal sense of style may have been accepted by all the fashion gods, but somehow she still maintains her misfit distance from the mainstream.

Occupation: DJ, one-half Ghetto Gothik

Venus X is quickly becoming a sought after name. She was recently featured in two of A$AP Rocky's music videos, but this girl is more than just eye candy. Her skills at rocking parties has put her on the map, her party Ghetto Gothik has started a mass following, and her style has everyone breaking necks. Known for her luscious green locks (or red, or black, depending on what mood she's in) and a style that meshes Spice Girl fun with Goth Kid darkness, Venus is definitely inspiring countless girls worldwide to be creative with their wardrobe.

Occupation: Stylist

Born and raised in New York City, Patti Wilson is a gifted and beloved visionary. Her work in a few words; breathtaking, provocative, and magical. She has developed excellent working partnerships with some of the biggest in the business; Steven Meisel, Terry Richardson, Ellen Von Unwerth, Steven Klein, David LaChapelle and many more. Not to mention, she has styled covers upon covers for magazines that range from L'Uomo Vogue, to Numero, to Harper's Bazaar, to i-D and more. Although her personal style consists mainly of dressing in various textures of all black, her choices are always unpredictable and avant-garde.

Occupation: Brand Consultant, Entrepreneur

Brand consultant and entrepreneur Michelle Harper looks as though she arrived in a time machine from the 1920s doing the Charleston in a flapper dress. Her style choices are uninhibited and fanciful, as she builds outfits with vintage pieces ranging from the '20s to the '60s. Her style is truly unique.

Occupation: American Business Woman, Interior Designer and Fashion Icon

This Queens native is dazzling with exquisite and wild style. Known for her black circular rimmed glasses and flamboyant wardrobe, this vivacious 90-year-old is hard not to notice. Her resume includes doing design restoration projects, including work in the White House for nine Presidents; Truman, Eisenhower, Nixon, Johnson, Carter, Reagan and Clinton. How could she not get a vote from me?

Occupation: Jewelry Designer at Pamela Love

This lady's jewelry is all the rage everywhere, but have you seen her wardrobe? Pamela's style is a mash-up between biker babe and hippie chick: full of motorcycle jackets, shredded tees, and vintage print dresses. With a mix like that sprinkled in with some Pamela Love jewels, you have yourself a recipe for divinity!

Occupation: Fashion Publicist

According to Fashion Week Daily, Bonnie is "one of the most socially connected fashion publicists in New York." Her resume cites Publicity Director at the illustrious PR firm KCD (which reps the creme de la creme in fashion), PR consultant for Proenza Schouler, Dries van Noten, Phi, and Magazine Editor for the dearly departed Men's Vogue. Of course, to be big in fashion you need to come correct and this babe is on her A-game. While flexing her gift of gab, Bonnie's wardrobe mixes in bohemian prints and feminine silhouettes balanced with masculine jackets. Her twitter handle might be @FierceGrandma, but she's definitely the former and not the latter!

Occupation: Fashion and Market Editor at CR Fashion Book



If Shiona's style was a dude, he could get it... like all day. Where do I begin?! Her pieces are always to die for — pulled together neatly and always striking! She has perfected wearing a short skirt, which is easy since she has great gams. Her accessories?! Don't get me started. She stacks and layers on jewelry better than anyone I've ever seen. I'm sure there is a site dedicated to stalking all her amazing looks, if not, I'm about to start one!

Occupation: Supermodel

Daria has been a muse of mine for a while now. Her strange beauty and perfected poses have had my heart for a few years now. It's interesting to see her in real life: still stunning, but dressed casually unkempt and comfortable. Her effortless look of beat up T-shirts, leather pants and motorcycle boots is sublime — this girl has nothing to prove!

Occupation: Television Personality, DJ, Designer

British It-Girl Alexa has continued to outdo herself in work and fashion. Her distinctive personal style of playful frocks, leather jackets and girly silhouettes gained the attention of some important folks while inspiring designers. In 2009, Mulberry made a highly sought after bag named in her honor (The Alexa bag). Anna Wintour described her as "a phenomenon" and The New York Times referred to her as "the Kate Moss of the new generation." Damn, as if she needed another co-sign, she recently collaborated with J.Crew's Madewell to create a womenswear collection. You go girl!

Occupation: Fashion Editor at Glamour

Rajni is the girl you glance at once and then discreetly look back at again so you can get a better look at her amazing outfit. Her looks are always a mix of many styles balanced into the perfect look. She's the type to throw together a pair of Burberry Prorsum boots, jeans, a tee and a Mets Jacket — and even as a Yankees fan, I can let that slide into home.

Occupation: Designer at Rachel Roy

The stunning Rachel Roy started out her career in New York City as a stylist and then took the helm of Creative Director at Rocawear. Eventually in 2005, she would launch her signature brand, Rachel Roy, which showed the world what she really had up her tailored sleeves. Rachel Roy's personal style and design represents who she is; an independent and powerful woman that isn't afraid of her femininity. It comes as no surprise that icons like Michelle Obama and Diane Sawyer are drawn to her collections.

Occupation: Singer/Songwriter

I love Santi! Her music is everything, especially during this time when a lot of stuff is so formulaic. She has been big amongst us locals before she dropped her first big album; performing here and there and gracing the common New York City streets with her hip style. Her wardrobe is filled with exuberant prints and dramatic accessories, which is also a good representation of her experimental sound. Lights out!

Occupation: Dancer, Musician, DJ

A famous local known for her ability to rip through a dance floor and make irresistible dance tracks, Tigga is also known for her sick wardrobe. Her style has varied, but it always remains influenced by '80s club kids, the streets, and Claire Huxtable. Not to mention, she's always been forward with her haircuts, so much so that they end up being worn by pop stars months later.

Occupation: Supermodel

After years of living in New York City and witnessing famous people living their lives normally, you learn pretty quickly that despite wearing designer threads for a living, most models and celebrities don't have amazing everyday style (sans a stylist). Insert Joan Smalls and prepare to be floored. Most pretty girls just stop at being pretty because they can, never giving interesting style a second thought — which is why Joan is even more striking. With looks like hers, she could get away with wearing a clown suit and no one would question it. Instead, her fashion choices are astounding and noteworthy. Long story short: Joan Smalls "dresses her ass off and her walk is mean." Who can't appreciate that?

Occupation: Agent, Chanel Ambassador, Model

New York-native Jen Brill mixes downtown edge and uptown high fashion perfectly. With her long brown tresses and signature red lips, this agent mixes vintage and straight-from-the-runway Chanel in a romantic and cool way.

Occupation: Fashion Director

As Fashion Director for W Hotels and the creator of the M.A.C. and Milk Partnership, Jenne is no stranger to the world of pairing things together, which is evident down to her style. Jenne mixes bad girl edge with beautiful luxe to create one big collaboration of all things supreme!

Occupation: Owner and Designer at UNIS

Eunice Lee has had her own brand and boutique in Nolita for the past 12 years. It has been a staple in the lives of many gentlemen I know, providing classic and iconic American sportswear — hell, even I have some UNIS pieces in my closet. Her design work is similar to her own personal style; casual, relaxed, and understated. Truth be told, I could fantasize about raiding a few fashionistas' closets, but, in reality, raiding Eunice's would be better because I would actually be able to wear it comfortably every day.

Occupation: Casting Agent, Fashion Consultant

This Belgian Babe got her start in New York as personal assistant to Glenn O'Brien, then moved on to Studio Manager for photographer Craig McDean before starting her own thing. Natalie's style is full of imaginative and remarkable looks! It has this feeling of being easy-going, while looking sensational. I'd go as far as saying that she's almost like a real-life Carrie Bradshaw (please put the claws away!), just look at her sassy gold locks and fun style.

Occupation: Costume Designer, Stylist, Fashion Designer

Patricia first opened up her signature boutique in 1966, which means this Queens girl has been serving up fashion for 46 years! Her boutique offers only the coolest most outrageous pieces, just take a stroll through her Bowery location. Her magnificent work for "Sex & The City" may have helped catapult "Carrie Bradshaw's" distinct character, but Patricia ultimately changed the way women at large thought about fashion. She pieced together well-rounded ensembles; high with low, and vintage with "around the way girl" punctuations which introduced non-urbanites to the name plate necklace and bamboo earrings.

Occupation: Stylist, Photographer Fashion Blogger at Hanneli

Like me, you've probably seen Hanneli's photo somewhere and saved it to your desktop as inspiration before you really knew who she was or what she does. Well, let me tell you, not only does his former Ford Model have a stunning face and a career in photography, she also has splendid style to match. With simple pieces and little jewelry, this Norwegian doll manages to create flawless looks, proving that with style, less is more.

Occupation: Singer and DJ of Hercules And Love Affair

Kim's androgynous looks evoke vintage streetcar and '80s new wave. With a delicate and pretty face like hers, this DJ and musician could pull off anything. From tank tops and fitteds to turtle necks and S&M harnesses — this girl's style is enough to make the boys jealous.

Occupation: Creative Director at J. Crew

Let's all take a second to bow our heads to Miss Jenna Lyons, who has been with J. Crew for 20 years! When I think of all the profound brands that stay true to themselves while re-inventing the wheel, J.Crew definitely appears in that lineup. Jenna's own style is a wonderful model for the brand; an excellent mix of high and low, while staying comfortable. With her signature big frame glasses, Jenna mixes up trendy pieces with high-fashion and relaxed basics to create a look that is all her own.

Occupation: Stylist

With a mix of Gaucho, Tomboy, and Diane Keaton in Annie Hall, Marina's style is one of the most original I've seen as of late. Taking from her Baton Rouge and Argentinian roots, this babe looks as if she's ready to ride horses through the mountains but has enough sophistication to pose gracefully for fashion photographers as she sips on some Maté. Fantastico!

Occupation: Rapper/Singer

I first blogged about this lyrical cutie back in March 2009. I knew then that this Harlem native was destined for greatness. She was only 17 and now at 21, she's really coming into her own as a trendsetting performer. Her most recent music video gave me life, with her ombre weave and leather chaps. Sure, the amazing Nicola Formichetti may style her, but she's the one giving it that 212 life.

Occupation: Singer

Ever-evolving creative genius Bjork holds a special place in my heart. Since the early '90s, this Icelandic cutie has continued to astound us with her unorthodox sound and style. From Nubian knots in her hair, outlandish stage costumes, and a swan dress that ruffled some feathers, Bjork is the definition of a real artist and a fashion icon.

Occupation: Buyer at Opening Ceremony

Kate Foley to me is that pretty girl in junior high that was so naturally cool and nice that you hated her but really loved her. While you were awkwardly figuring out your style, she was just somehow throwing looks together and making it work by accident. The same looks that if you tried them, you know you'd look like a big idiot. Kate easily pieces together vintage night gowns, leather outerwear, denim overalls, platform sandals and makes them sensational. It makes total sense that she holds a position as Buyer at Opening Ceremony, which is known for being multifaceted and trés cool.

Occupation: Director, Designer, Creative Consultant

Well, this is awkward. You're either surprised that I'm placing myself so high or confused as to why I'm even mentioned. Since this overwhelming and honorable job was given to me for a reason, it looks like I'm calling this shot. I'm heavily influenced by uniforms (my dad was a car mechanic, my mom was a nurse, and I went to catholic school), which is why I have been wearing the same thing for the past 10 years: chambray shirts, denim cutoffs, combat boots and Vintage T-shirts. I've been a tomboy my whole life who's usually the only girl in the crew. When I do get dressed up, I like to be comfortable and cute. I like mixing feminine and masculine, hood and high class. I like it and I think a lot of other girls like it because it's how they dress also.

Occupation: Fashion Writer at Vogue

When I find an image of Chioma from time to time, seconds later I usually realize that my mouth is slightly agape. Often seen in layered ethnic prints, vibrant colors and military jackets — you may want to take notes from this Vogue Fashion Writer. Chioma is always picture perfect with her adventurous combinations. Better than all of her pairings is the effortless cool she exudes while wearing it all. J'adore!

Occupation: Singer, DJ

I've always loved people who can re-invent themselves in organic and refreshing ways like Miss Knowles. Solange's style over the years has been exciting to watch; from Boho Chic to Glamorous Pop Diva to her current look of Eclectic World Traveler. I'm not sure that perfectly explains her style at the moment, all I know is that we love it. Solo has us screaming "YOLO" to our inner fashionista, as she inspires us to be more daring with pattern mixing and color statements.

Occupation: Jewelry Designer at Genevieve Jones

Genevieve Jones is no stranger to a best-dressed list, just pick up any major fashion magazine or go to your favorite fashion blogger's site and I guarantee she's being mentioned (if not, you may need to re-think your sources). This Trinidadian beauty was born and raised in New Orleans, which may account for the jubilant energy in her wardrobe and designs. Her style and personality has this sense of being otherworldly, as if she's a fairy princess from another time. She pulls out looks that are always elegant, whimsical yet polished. We all might not be able to don the fabulous designer pieces that she does, but at least we can buy jewels from her signature line that represent her intriguing taste.

Occupation: Editor-in-Chief at Vogue

Considering that she's probably inspired, employed, or launched a slew of the fashionable ladies listed, she was a definite addition. Despite the fact that she's become an immortal fashion god, she's still very much human. Above that, she's a New Yorker. Her reputation may precede her, but so do her great work and taste. I mean, she's been the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue since 1988 for a reason. Her personal style over the years has remained classic and refined, with her signature bob haircut, dark sunglasses, and sheath dresses. It's not always the boring power suit that makes the powerful woman in fashion, it's her style!

Occupation: Singer/Songwriter, Poet, Visual Artist

Patti Smith is one of my favorite artists ever! Nicknamed the "Godmother of Punk", her style has consistently included simple and oversized masculine silhouettes. It may appear that she is apathetic towards fashion, but Patti actually has a discerning eye when it comes to her wardrobe. She pays attention to detail and mostly wears items from the revered designer Ann Demeulemeester, a good friend of hers whom she's collaborated with. Patti spent her entire career wearing men's shirts and trousers without a trace of makeup which is refreshing to see, especially when reality stars are setting bad trends of lycra dresses, caked on makeup, obscene earrings and platform heels. Patti is a fearless woman with an unmistakable style and comfortable in her own skin — I can't think of anything more stylish than that!

Occupation: Actresses, Designers at The Row, Elizabeth and James, and Olsenboye

Sure, I was surprised as anyone to know that the adorable twins from "Full House" fame had become the biggest trend setters during their tender college years. I mean, who gives iconic looks while going to class?! Oh right, Mary-Kate and Ashley do! They have really evolved into fashion icons who continue to start trends haphazardly. From Bohemian Bourgeois to currently Subdued Elegance, these sisters are doing it for themselves. Not to mention, they've claimed their places in the fashion world as a design force to be reckoned with by starting three successful and incredible fashion labels; The Row, Elizabeth and James, and Olsenboye.

Occupation: Artistic Director at Moda Operandi

Crimson-haired and style ablaze, this Texan gal got her start in her parents' Dallas accessories showroom. It's no wonder her work resume reads like an FIT student's fantasy: Style & Accessories Director at Marie Claire, Accessories Director at Teen Vogue, and currently Artistic Director at Moda Operandi. Taylor is the girl that walks in the room and shuts shit down. Oh, you thought you looked cute tonight? Guess you didn't see Miss Taylor. She's the apple of every street fashion photographer's eye with her statement jewelry and head-to-toe high fashion. I'm talking Comme des Garcons, Rick Owens, and Proenza Schouler — damn girl, holler at a player when you're bored of that couture.

Occupation: Style Director at Elle

Kate may hail from Virginia, but this southern belle's style feels as though she was born on the runways of Bryant Park. She's striking looks, a slim figure, a signature blonde haircut, and a towering height. If you didn't know any better, you might mistake her for being just a model — but she's much more than that, honey. This girl's fashion resume runs deep — so deep that it puts most others' work to sleep. From working at the Australian Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, Lanphear is making waves in her current position at Elle. Her own flawless personal style of androgynous glamour has not only started trends, but also created a cult following.

Occupation: Actress, Designer

The mainstream might think that Chloe just recently surfaced to fame, but she's been startling the fashion world and the underground since the '90s. She got her "It Girl" status soon after her dark and dramatic role in Kids. Since then, she's turned up in some of the most iconic fashion editorials to date, modeling the best couture ever made, and bringing "cool" to red carpets. I am 100% sure that a lot of women have been inspired by Miss Sevigny over the years, whether they know it or not (me included). I can even recall stumbling upon an extensive fansite dedicated to her style 10 years ago when the Internet was less sophisticated. Basically, she's been killing the game way before Tumblr and fashion blogs could record it. Her offbeat fashion choices always turn out to be superb. It came as no surprise that when she launched her signature collection with Opening Ceremony in 2009, it was an instant hit. Her remarkable and strange taste can be found even on her acting resume with films like Boys Don't Cry, American Psycho, and Gummo. To sum it up, this Brown Bunny has Big Love for Chloe's style.