It’s the newest edition of Jews of Philly Fashion, introducing you to the Chosen few who dress our city. They might mix wool and linen, but they’ve got some strong opinions on mixing stripes with florals. In this space, we’ll talk to designers, sellers, buyers, influencers, models and more. This week, we spoke to Laura Rothstein.
Long before she opened Lunachick, her boutique women’s clothing shop with locations in Newtown, Spring House and, as of a few weeks ago, Rittenhouse, Laura Rothstein sold everything from felt bookmarks to molded ice flowers.
Rothstein, 53, grew up working, the product of an “entrepreneurial spirit” given to her by her single working mother, she says. That spirit is the same one that led her to open Yogasphere yoga studios back in 2004, and the same one that drives her to be involved in decision-making for Lunachick at every level. Sometimes, she laughs, “I clean the toilets.”
It helps that she feels like she’s part of a team. “It’s just great owning a business and being able to work with wonderful ladies and work in a community of empowered women,” she said.
Rothstein spoke about flare jeans, Audrey Hepburn and learning to love neon.
What is your favorite piece of clothing?
A good pair of jeans. My stores always stock great denim — classic to totally distressed, in all shapes.
How did you come up with the name Lunachick?
I’ve always been inspired by the moon — the way it centers us, unites us and glitters above us. Outside one evening, I decided I would name my stores for the other women who felt the same appreciation: Lunachicks.
What’s something you can’t believe you used to wear?
I used to work at IBM. I dressed very corporate and buttoned up, and was always in a business suit. Part of my curating for my Lunachick girls is for the creative expression that they can have when they don’t have to be in the suit. So we do a lot of repurposing of suit pieces with trendy tops, denim, graphic tees, cozy sweaters and playful skirts. Women of all ages can add a youthful and playful edge to their classic blazers and trousers and feel more feminine and expressive.
What’s your go-to High Holiday outfit?
I always wear black. I love pencil skirts with either a jacket, sweater or blouse. The weather is always the variable, though. This week is 90 degrees.
Is there a current fashion trend that you detest?
I really don’t detest any trends, as our personal interpretation of trends lead us to self-expression. However, I am not a huge fan of neon colors, but I am learning to embrace it.
What would you be doing if you weren’t running Lunachick?
I have four kids, three stores and two yoga studios, so if I wasn’t running Lunachick, I would be teaching yoga and spending more time at the studios and spending more time with my four children.
What are you looking forward to this fall?
My kids coming home for the holidays. I love when we are all together.
Will the Eagles win the Super Bowl?
Obviously! Although after yesterday’s game, we do need to keep the faith.
What item of clothing should more people be wearing?
Flare jeans.
What person’s style do you admire?
I have always loved Audrey Hepburn’s style. My mother always said simple is best.
What talent would you most like to have?
I need to learn how to fly! On any given day I need to be between Rittenhouse, Spring House, Bucks County, New York, L.A., Lehigh, etc.
Rocky statue pictures: tacky or tasteful?
Tasteful – we’ve even done them. It’s iconic. If it’s iconic, it’s not tacky. Rocky is part of our uniquely Philadelphia DNA.
jbernstein@jewishexponent.com; 215-832-0740
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