Style Notes: Claire Distenfeld

Just two weeks ago, Claire Distenfeld opened the impeccably curated Fivestory boutique in an Upper East Side townhouse (alongside beaming father and co-owner Fred Distenfeld). With its polished interiors courtesy of Ryan Korban, the retail outpost feels like a very chic home, albeit one filled with Carven dresses, sumptuous cashmere sweaters and Olympia Le-Tan clutches.

Having recovered from a packed opening night that included a dinner at Mr. Chow’s, Claire offered up her thoughts on British television, Iris Apfel and where she’ll hopefully be vacationing in the coming months.

Define your style in three words: Feminine, masculine, witty.

Daily uniform: Always balanced and usually containing a white button down shirt.

Greatest hits: Coral polka dot Nina Ricci onesie I found in Miami’s C. Madelines—it’s from the 60’s. And currently I’m obsessed with my Carven runway piece with cutout mid section and gold embellishments.

Preferred footwear: Always needs to have character and street cred, no black pumps for me. Also, I don’t leave home without my wallet, cell phone, and a nice set of platforms. Right now I’m rocking my Chrissie Morris candy stripers from Fivestory.

Finishing touches: My raffia suspenders I found roaming around Florence about seven years ago. And definitely jewelry, usually an attention-grabbing unique necklace like my Lizzie Fortunato Danger Island choker or an Anndrea Neen beauty.

Nighttime look: I don’t like to fuss with my outfits when I go out so I try to keep the all-in-one package consistent, meaning jumpsuits or dresses. If everything’s attached, it makes life easier…(except maybe in the ladies room).

Best recent discovery: Clé de Peau face wash—life changer. And Masterpiece Theatre’s Upstairs, Downstairs TV series. Let’s just say if you, too, are having Downton Abbey withdrawal, we now have a cure.

Favorite stores: Joyce in Hong Kong, E.A.T for black and white cookies and smoked salmon (not together!), Belgian Shoes for comfy slippers.

Style pet peeve: Too stylized, too extreme…”too” anything, really.

Style icons: I don’t really have a “style icon,” but I have always admired Veruschka for her style. Iris Apfel as well—she is who I want to be.

Last purchase: My two Lanvin winged rings, a TREK bike for my dad for his birthday and limited edition Jack Purcell Converse for my brother for his birthday (they are a day a part!).

Lusting after: Puiforcat tea set, Saint Louis colored glasses and a Daniella Villegas blow fish ring!

Favorite haunts: Il Cantinori, back of the Bowery Hotel lobby, Metropolitan Club top floor.

Warm-weather must haves: It’s so simple: perfect jorts (jean shorts), white button down, sunglasses, Mara Hoffman bikini. Done, done and done.

Next vacation: Montenegro (fingers crossed…hint, hint, nudge, nudge to the BF).

Portrait: Billy Farrell Agency