FLASH CHAT

Five minutes with Betina Holte.

After working with Zac Posen for three years, Denmark-born, New York-based Betina Holte is launching a namesake collection of “seasonless staples” (from $200, betinaholte. com) this month. We found out what’s inspiring the model turned designer and mother-tobe. (Her hubby is Madonna’s ex Carlos Leon.)

What’s the most important lesson you learned from Zac Posen? “My confidence in draping. I learned where to start and when to let go of pieces that you think are going one way but then end up looking different. It’s also sort of a life lesson.”

What’s your favourite creative medium? “I love chiffon because of the way it moves. It needs to be long; it needs to flow and be picked up by the wind. When you put a print on top of that, it becomes magical.”

How much does your native Denmark influence your style? “There’s a minimalistic style there that I instinctively go for. When I design, I start with myself—something that I would like to have or feel is missing from my wardrobe. I like the idea of pieces that go from day to evening.

We’re busy girls—we have a life.”

What do you love most about your new collection? “It’s about layering. The same silhouettes and basics will be available year-round in different fabrics. It’s nice to have those go-to pieces in your wardrobe that always work.”

Where do you see your line going in the next five years? “We just designed a shoe collection, and we’re looking at bags. I love lingerie, and I’m even thinking of menswear. My husband is a huge inspiration—he has great style.”

With so much on the go, how do you stay centred? “I breathe and count to 10 and take a moment to focus on the positive. If everything else fails, I force myself to smile and eventually my mood actually changes.” ■