A STYLIST OPENS HER BAG

Growing up in Tofino, B.C., Kemal Harris didn’t have much exposure to the world of fashion, until, at the age of 11, she found an issue of Elle at the local library. Now, the New York-based stylist creates red-carpet looks for clients like Kate Mckinnon, Alexis Bledel and Robin Wright, who brought her on as costume designer for the actress’ impeccably tailored role of Claire Underwood on House of Cards. We caught up with Harris at the Jeremy West Hollywood Hotel, in the aftermath of awards season.

STUFF, ROLL, FOLD OR SCRUNCH?

I fold, and I’m very colour coordinated – it’s all black, white and grey with a pop of red here or there. And I always have a swimsuit, packed in a zip-lock bag with the air pushed out, ready to go. You never know when there might be a pool.

DO YOU HAVE A TRAVEL UNIFORM?

Like with anything, it’s all about layers. I’m usually flying New York to L.A., leaving a cold environment and landing in a warm one. Uniqlo’s men’s cashmere turtlenecks are great layering pieces: roomy, long and thin enough to throw in my purse when I land in L.A. And they’re crazy affordable.

WHERE DO YOU GET INSPIRATION FOR CLAIRE’S WARDROBE?

I’m definitely guilty of people-watching, especially in airport lounges. The people I’m around in fashion aren’t reflective of Claire’s kin–that government corporate world–so I notice the jackets, the handbags, the shoes that women in these lounges are wearing.

WITH THE CHARACTER’S ROLE BECOMING THE LEAD, HOW WILL HER LOOK EVOLVE?

Last season saw Claire dip in and out of the vicepresident role and aggressively pursue that position. She’s just a shark. We brought in a lot of presidential blues, army greens and militaristic details like gold buttons, so I think we’ll continue with that energy. I’m just excited to see the scripts – anything can happen.