Talking TikTok and NYC Style with Gabriela Vasci
You may know her from TikTok as @gab_nyc where she currently boasts over 98,000 followers. Gab Vasci is a senior in college living in Manhattan who has an eye for style. In this C&W exclusive interview, find out what’s worth the investment when it comes to designers, how to dress up on Zoom, and where to shop in NYC!
First, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I just started my senior year at Columbia, where I’m majoring in Creative Writing and concentrating in Art History. I’m also currently working on my first novel, which is sort of a dark comedy take on the classic crime thriller. I’ve always been into creating content, and I started making TikToks last November. At first, my content was mostly comedy sketches and relatable bits about living in the city. Now, my page is more vlogs and restaurant reviews, since my followers kept asking for more of an inside look into my actual day to day life instead of just satire where I was playing a dramatized character. I also launched an arts & culture podcast, Uptown Gab, last month. Each episode I sit down with someone in the arts––from comedians to ballerinas––and talk life in New York, craft, and more.
As a college student living and studying in New York City, how would you describe your everyday style?
Living in New York City has definitely made my style a lot more practical. In high school, I was really into the boho look, but the city totally changed that. In the spring and summer, I usually wear some sort of skirt and t-shirt combo, and in the fall and winter, I wear black jeans and a black or gray sweater almost every day (it’s clichéd but everyone in NYC does wear a lot of black). I’m a big fan of keeping outfits simple and accessorizing––I love fun jackets, bags, and headbands. And I always, always wear sneakers. When it gets really cold, I’ll sometimes swap them out for black ankle boots, but catch me in a straight up blizzard still wearing sneakers. My favorite pair right now are the Golden Goose Ballstars, I’m on the shorter side so I love the hidden wedge.
What are some of your favorite fashion trends right now?
Photo: @gabrielavasci
LoveShackFancy dresses and skirts were huge this summer, and I absolutely love the girlier vibe for the warmer months, so that was definitely one of my favorite trends this past season. I have this black LSF skirt that I’m transitioning into fall and I feel like it goes equally well with a white girly top and wedges for summer and a chunky sweater and boots for winter. And, I’m not even sure if this still counts as a trend because it’s sort of become a classic, but I’m obsessed with animal print. I think I wear at least one piece of animal print clothing in all my videos. Since I mostly wear neutral colors, animal print keeps outfits from feeling bland and boring. Leopard goes with everything.
We know that closet space is limited in the city. What are your top three staple pieces that you can’t live without?
It’s so hard to choose! Definitely a pair of Golden Goose – probably my Purestars I customized with leopard print laces. They’re just so comfortable; you can walk hundreds of blocks in them. I’m big on being prepared, so definitely a super practical black crossbody for carrying all my essentials, like the Prada Diagramme. It’s my go-to bag for everyday wear. Literally, I think I wear it every single day. And my Alexander Wang Game jacket––it’s an oversized, snake print denim jacket that I bought a few seasons ago and have worn every single season since. That jacket, ripped black jeans, and a white tee is one of my easiest weekend outfits.
In your opinion, what are some of the best designer clothing pieces and/or accessories that are worth the investment?
Photo: @gabrielavasci
When people think of wardrobe “investment pieces,” their mind usually goes straight to Birkins, Kellys, and boy bags. But honestly, I think the best investment piece for you is actually a piece that you’ll wear often, and not feel like you have to keep it locked away to avoid getting it dirty. The value from the “investment” should come from the amount of wear you get out of the piece, not just a potential increased resale price. If you think you’ll get a ton of wear out of a Chanel boy bag in a neutral color, then that could be a great option for you. As far as clothes go, a leather jacket is a great investment, but personally I think “investing” in accessories is your best bet since you can’t grow out of them and they tend to be more timeless––like a Cartier love bracelet or a Goyard tote. Also, they may not have the investment clout of Hermés or Chanel bags, but Golden Goose are a pretty good designer investment piece––I wear mine every day, and I think that makes them totally worth it.
Is there a specific item that you would recommend to someone looking to make their first designer purchase?
I would definitely suggest staying away from anything too trendy, or anything that makes too much of a statement. Sure, a neon yellow and hot pink Off White tote might work really well in some looks, but you can’t wear it more than once without it being the focal point of your entire outfit. Instead, go for a timeless silhouette in a classic color. I recommend finding a brand you really admire the aesthetic of––whether its YSL, Prada, or Gucci––and getting a simple yet practical crossbody from them. I love the Prada Diagramme bag because it fits a lot and has just a little texture to keep it from feeling too plain while still matching any look.
Do you have any style tips for girls who still want to look put together while working and/or taking classes from home?
A headband is a cute way to add polish to your look while still wearing sweatpants for online classes! You can also try switching out your t-shirt for a simple sweater, or wearing a collared shirt under a crewneck sweatshirt.
TikTok has been an incredible platform for you to share your personal style and life in New York City. How has the app contributed to your success?
With TikTok, I’ve been able to build up a following and share my content with millions of people, which is really exciting! I especially love going live on TikTok because it’s a great way to connect with my followers on a really personal level and answer all of their questions. Some of them say that my lives feel like they’re Facetiming me, which I love to hear!
What are some of your favorite brands at the moment?
Like I said, LoveShackFancy is definitely having a moment right now and I hope that continues through the fall. For sweaters and tees, I’m loving the Intermix brand, honestly. They have great basics. For jeans, I love AG Jeans, Frame, and MOTHER denim. My favorite luxury brand is definitely Prada.
Do you have any favorite stores in NYC that are a “must-visit” right now for anyone visiting or living in the city?
Intermix is definitely a must-visit, and I recommend going to the Upper East Side location! Everyone there is super friendly and helpful, and they always have the latest trends plus previous seasons on sale. For a true New York City experience, you should definitely stop by Bergdorf’s (and grab afternoon tea at BG cafe) and Bloomies (don’t forget to get frozen yogurt at Forty Carrots).
Photo: @gabrielavasci, Gabriela at Intermix with Carrie Berk
Follow Gab on TikTok at @gab_nyc and on IG at @gabrielavasci
Listen to the Uptown Gab podcast now on Apple Podcasts
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.