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Muses take many forms. For New Zealand’s (and now the world’s) go-to label for 90s silhouettes undercut with a distinguished edge, Paris Georgia, personifications of their design methodology are evident in the women who wear their label.
Yes, there are the quotidian followers like you or me who sneak off on a lunch break to line the block at their warehouse sales. There’s also the A-listers like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber who drive women to covet their wares in droves, or the creatives like Solange who exhibit the multi-dimensionality embedded into the label’s fibres. We can’t forget the world leaders either, like New Zealand’s former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
In Paris Mitchell Temple and Georgia Cherrie’s own words, their muses are “a global community of discerning women that inspire and empower those around them”. In their skin-skimming silhouettes and cut-out creations, an It girl can be made from anyone. Who better to express this ethos than Paris Georgia’s latest official “muse”, Los Angeles-based actress Steph Shep?
Indeed, the former personal assistant to Kim Kardashian turned COO turned co-founder of the nonprofit climate education platform Future Earth, actress and now, campaign star, knows a thing or two about the self-confidence that arises from adaptability. In each iteration of her evolution, Shep has remained unwaveringly authentic—a particularly admirable quality given her locale in the land of sycophants and interlopers.
The idea of achieving effortless poise through fundamental silhouettes is at the core of Paris Georgia’s ‘Elemental’ collection, making the synergy between Shep and the Kiwi cool-girl label especially poignant. To cement their kindred spirits, Shep stepped in front of the lens of renowned photographer Thistle Brown, starring in an intimate portrait series that comprises Paris Georgia’s “Elemental: The Foundation Collection.”
The campaign, which will be posted around Los Angeles as well as your social media feeds, is the newest variant in PG’s ‘building block’ range of innovative basics and reimagined classics. These are the pieces that are malleable and timeless, ones that will grow with you through each stage of life and empower you to embrace your individuality, just as Shep has.
“[Our goal is] to be the go-to for the cool, confident, empowered woman… that’s who we love to dress and if we become the go-to for those women, that would be the dream,” Paris Georgia once said. Here, with Shep’s endorsement, it’s apparent their job is done. In her element in front of the camera, Shep took time out of her busy calendar to chat with GRAZIA about her role as ‘muse’, living authentically and the confidence clothing can be. Read our conversation ahead.
GRAZIA: What is your first memory of Paris Georgia?
Steph Shep: My first memory is getting this classic little black dress. I actually wore it again recently and it was the perfect fit. What struck me was the quality of the fabric. I see so many brands and they just don’t invest in the quality the way PG does.
GRAZIA: What drew you towards Paris Georgia’s designs and what has made you want to work with them?
SS: Firstly, I love a female-founded brand and when I met Paris and Georgia we immediately clicked and we knew we had to work together. I love their energy, I love their modern classic collections, the versatility and the attention to detail. I feel very honoured to be the face of their campaign!
GRAZIA: You’re a natural in front of the camera. How was stepping in front of Thistle Brown’s lens for this intimate portrait series as muse of Paris Georgia different to other campaigns?
SS: I was super excited at the opportunity of shooting with Thistle. I was so taken by his styling work with Pamela Anderson. I am such a fan of his, he has a great eye and captures the essence of the moment. We had a fun time on set; we came with the same mindset, we don’t need 100 shots, we can get it in 16 and just trust!
GRAZIA: Who is someone you look up to as a muse?
SS: I look up to Laura Harrier as a muse. I think her career choices have been dialled in, she’s got great personal style, great red carpet moments, and most importantly, she’s a kind person.
GRAZIA: Do you have a favourite piece from this collection, and how do you style it?
SS: My favourite piece from the collection is the black Everyday skirt. You can dress it up and pair it with the Embellished Singlet top or dress it down with a simple white tank and sweater vest. The skirt is so versatile, flats or heels, it can take you day to night.
GRAZIA: Paris Georgia has tapped you for their “Elemental” campaign. Where and how do you feel most in your element?
SS: Oh, this is a really good question, I feel most in my element when I’m on set. Whether we are shooting a film or doing a photoshoot, I love the energy of being on a set and collaborating with other creatives, and I like to be the centre of attention.
GRAZIA: What is your style philosophy?
SS: Wear what makes you feel the most confident and dress for yourself. When you have confidence, even behind a white tee and jeans, it just magnifies your presence more than any expensive accessory could.
Shop Steph Shep’s favourite Paris Georgia pieces from the new collection.
