The Republic: Banana Republic from the Inside Out

Earlier this week we posted about some of our favorite accessories for the season. While we’re on the subject, we thought it was a good time to catch up with stylist Nissa Quanstrom who helped make our April pieces pop. Check out the Q&A below (along with some behind-the-scenes photos) and get Nissa’s take on styling, inspiration, and this summer’s must haves!

Banana Republic: What inspires your styling?
Nissa: I have a love for the natural world and a passion for the created one. I often seek out art, film, architecture, and photography to help inform my current taste. Color palette combos can be found hiking or on urban treks. I try to keep my eyes open and my camera close.

BR: Three must have accessories for women? For men?
Nissa: For women: chunky necklace, low boots, and a slim clutch. For men: a leather messenger, acetate frames and a statement wallet.

BR: What styling trends are you most excited about for summer?
Nissa: Brights, I find them energizing and full of life, plus it’s fun to pair random color combos like brick red and coral, or apple green and highlighter yellow.

BR: What’s your-go-to outfit while on set?
Nissa: I’m known for a go-to accessory more than a specific outfit. I always wear my pincushion bracelet, it’s a massive spike of pins on a fabric heart that velcros onto the wrist. Seriously it’s crazy sea urchin looking.

BR: How would you describe your style in three words?
Nissa: Messy functional with a hint of serious. I’m so drawn to tomboy shapes lately with bits of hidden feminine, a necklace tucked behind a tank or a bright bra under a neutral.

BR: Favorite item in your closet?
Nissa: Vintage hangers.

BR: If you weren’t styling, what would you be doing?
Nissa: Art curator, production design, or landscape design. Is there such a thing as professional traveler? That would be über kuhl.

Follow Nissa on Twitter @stylnissa

1. Propping pieces 2. Nissa setting up 3. Nissa and Geoff (from BR) working through selects 4. Nissa and photographer Peter Medilek planning the shot 5. Photo studio overview