I read each of Cazzie David‘s essay collections as soon as they came out—No One Asked for This in 2020 and Delusions this past March—and loved both (I already can’t wait for the next one). Since her latest release, she celebrated with a party thrown by AirMail, launched a Substack, and worked with Paloma Wool on a photo series, among other things.
This week in particular, she’s been busy: she was seen at New York Fashion Week (including the Proenza Schouler show), attended the U.S. Open, and debuted as the star of Madewell’s new fall denim collection.
In the campaign video, written by Cazzie and her writing partner, Elisa Kalani, she takes on the role of “the denim expert you didn’t know you needed.” When asked how you know when you’ve found “the one,” she shares the advice: “You’ll just know. They’ll lift you up. You’ll reach for them every day, and miss them when they’re not around.” This is in reference to jeans.
The full capsule is available now in stores and at Madewell.com, and customers can even call her denim hotline at 1-844-DENIM55 to leave a question.
Below, I spoke with Cazzie about the collaboration, her personal style, and a few of her beauty staples.
What makes you a denim expert?
If I told you I had spent 30 years studying art history, you might say I’m an expert in that field. So technically, I’m an expert at wearing jeans, as I have 30 years of experience. I am also an expert at having anxiety and watching TV.
What’s your go-to style of jeans right now?
I’m reaching for two right now, which are basically opposites. The Low-Rise Loose Jean has a relaxed straight leg and is great if you’re like me and don’t like being restrained by clothing. The Relaxed Bootcut Jean if I am going out and want to show off a particular asset.
How would you describe your personal style in your own words, and what outfit formula do you find yourself repeating over and over? What are some wardrobe staples you can’t live without?
I tend to have one outfit that I repeat over and over until everyone in my life has seen it multiple times and I can’t get away with wearing it anymore. But you can always get away with jeans and an easy T-shirt and sweater. I don’t like to draw too much attention with what I’m wearing but I always like it to feel balanced.
Any trend—or anti-trend—you’re noticing in LA right now? What’s a trend you’re loving right now, or one you predict will be big this fall?
I have to admit I am loving the move away from leggings. Like why are they so tight it never made sense.
Do you have a go-to makeup routine? What are your staples?
I use a little bit of the Kosas brightening concealer, Merit blush in “Cheeky” and don’t leave the house without grabbing five different Clinique black honey dupes.
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