Fetch Magazine by Taigan

With her ubiquitous pixie cut, ever-present smile, and affinity for pugs, Katie Armour is a total Matchbook girl. It’s no wonder, since she founded Matchbook Magazine in 2011 with close friend Jane Lilly Warren. The “field guide to a charmed life” has taken off and they’re now at work on the 21^st issue. Armour also pens a personal blog, The Neo-Traditionalist. We had the chance to chat with Armour and are excited to share her favorite Taigan finds. Enjoy!

 

You started your blog The Neo-Traditionalist in 2009, and since you’re an expert in the field, can you tell us what defines neo-traditionalism? What does it look like? How is it manifested in fashion and the home?

I think being a Neo-Traditionalist or a Matchbook girl (they’re one in the same, really…) is all about investing in quality, timeless pieces. It’s about building a wardrobe and a home full of the classics (the perfectly tailored pencil skirt, a classic Billy Baldwin sofa…) and then layering with fun statement pieces like a bold statement necklace or leopard throw pillows. It’s all about modern women celebrating and reinventing the classics.

 

You just moved from California to New York City and into what is presumably a smaller space. How has size influenced your apartment decorating decisions?

It’s all about editing! I am more thoughtful now before I make a purchase. Is it timeless or will I grow tired of it in six months? Taigan is dangerous for my pocketbook because they’re full of “forever pieces” that I am very good at justifying!

You’ve mentioned a lifelong passion for fashion and design. How has your personal style changed over the years?

It’s become much simpler. I love ruffles and such on other girls, but I’ve come to accept that they’re just not “me.” I prefer a tailored approach. A crisp white oxford, black cigarette pants… Heels are lovely to look at, but I’m content with a smart pair of flats.

 

As Co-founder and Editorial Director of Matchbook you must meet incredibly talented designers, fabulous writers, and just plain interesting people. Who should we keep our eye on? Any up and comers we’ll be glad to say we knew of back in 2012?

This is a tough only because there’s so much talent out there! I’m loving the designs of Whitney Pozgay of WHIT, the photographs of Olivia Rae James in Charleston, the watercolors of Brooklyn artist Happy Menocal…just to name a few.

 

Fashion and home trends often play off one another, and Matchbook covers both. What sort of trends can we expect for the up and coming season?

This fall all anyone cares about is polka dots. I fully support this.

 

Any tips for welcoming fall into your home?

Accessorize! Think cozy throws, faux fur pillows, a pheasant feather wreath…

 

Finally, what are you looking forward to this fall?

The leaves changing colors! I’m excited to be back in the land of four seasons.

Katie’s Top Ten Taigan Picks

1. Lumbar Leopard Pillow, $190

2. Meissen Figurines Mini Pug with Bells, $377

3. Lippmann Collection Nail Color in ‘Just Walk Away Renee‘, $16

4. Alice + Olivia Jennie Bishop Sleeved Pleated Dress, $495

5. Juliska Country Estate Tulip Tower, $595

6. Bounkit Green and Black Onyx and Green Amethyst Earrings, $365

7. ‘The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor’ by John Culme (and Nicholas Rayner), $225

8. Creed Fleurrissimo Fragrance, $260

9. Resin Champagne Bucket, $260

10. Charlotte Olympia Kitty Suede Shoes in fuchsia, $595

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