Artrocker Style Icons Presents: The Vivian Girls in Interview

Utopian trio the Vivian Girls are one of the most understated and yet talked about lo-fi bands of the modern era. Known for their reverb drenched, noisy pop, the coveted artists released their third album Share The Joy back in April, marking a monumental change in sound which had been influenced by none other than Burt Bacharach.

Recognised for their casual, retrospective style, their approach has turned them into an inspiration for all easygoing fashion types. Artrocker caught up with the three piece to talk thrift stores and style advice.






ARTROCKER: How important is fashion to your daily lives and busy schedules?

VIVIAN GIRLS: Fashion is pretty important to me. I have cared about having a unique personal appearance ever since I was a little kid. I'm very stimulated by visuals, so the way I dress is a natural offshoot of that. It's not easy for me to go into a store and pick up just anything, knowing it will fit fine, because I have kind of a weird body and not a lot of things look good on me. I've had to learn how to make very conscious choices about what I choose to wear.

Do you have any favourite brands or highstreet stores?

I don't really pay attention to any current brands. I like Minnetonka moccasins and (unfortunately) I buy jeans at Urban Outfitters, because they're not too expensive and they fit well. Other than that I rarely buy new clothes. I usually buy clothing with kind of generic 80's labels like All That Jazz or Pretty Girl. In New York Beacon's Closet is good. It's not too expensive and it's usually pretty easy for me to find something nice.

In general, I've had the best luck at thrift stores all over California. I also really like Painted Bird in San Francisco and Red Light in Seattle.

Do you shop in charity shops instead?

Yes - I love the Salvation Army. I think charity shops are great. It might take a little more time to find something worthwhile, but I love that the money goes to a good cause, and the feeling of getting recycled clothing - something with a past.

When it comes to high fashion, do you have any favourites?

No comment....I’m clueless!





Whats your staple item for the ever looming season, and whats your essential item you can't live without?

My staple item for the summer is always a good pair of short shorts. My perennial favorite items of clothing are my two acid-washed jean jackets and my moccasins - I can wear them with anything and feel good about the way I look.

How would you describe your personal style?

A Southwestern mom / late '80s valley girl / punk/grunge hybrid.

What inspires you?

The aesthetics of mid-century America, movies from the 80's and early 90's, Native American designs... certain color palates... I won't wear something unless I really like the color.

On a day to day basis, what inspires you to get dressed in the morning or do you just throw on the nearest thing?

It takes me about ten to fifteen minutes to get ready every day. I don't like to spend a lot of time unless it's for a special event. I usually that find that the more thought I put into how I look, the more self-conscious I'll feel during the day, asking myself if I've made the right decision. I've basically pared my wardrobe down to mostly pieces I can just throw on and know I'll feel good in.

And finally, do you have any advice for our readers when it comes to fashion?

If you're thin, wear bright or patterned tops that fit loosely paired with tight, solid and neutral colored pants or skirt. Learn to hand-sew - it's easy, therapeutic, and it'll be easier to shop knowing that you can alter whatever you buy. If you're shopping, don't buy anything unless you absolutely love it - don't get something you feel lukewarm about because you will probably never wear it.