What Lies Beneath.... Karen Binns

As Fashion Month unfolds, there’s no better time to spotlight one of the industry’s most respected creative forces: Karen Binns. A true veteran with over 30 years of experience, the Brooklyn born stylist, creative director, and consultant has left an undeniable mark on fashion and culture.

Binns first made waves in the New York art scene of the 1980s, where she became a muse and close confidante to the legendary  artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Since then, her career has been defined by bold, boundary-pushing collaborations; most notably with singer Tori Amos and Afrobeat icon Wizkid. Her visionary styling has graced the pages of Dazed, Rolling Stone, and Untold, solidifying her reputation as a creative powerhouse. With an innate ability to shape identities and redefine narratives, Binns remains an essential voice in the ever-evolving world of fashion.

TSB -Could you share a bit about your upbringing and how it shaped your creative vision?

Karen - My mom had to work as a maid on the upper east side when I was young, she always brought home all of the latest fashion magazines and the foreign additions too  and I would read them cover to cover. I became obsessed with fashion.

TSB -Were there any pivotal moments in your early life that directed you towards fashion, art, and music?

Karen - When I was 14 years old , my mom decided to take me to the best thrift stores in New York City, the Upper East Side. She always said, “It’s better to wear the best of last season, than the worst of this season”.  She taught me good taste and pushed me to experiment, to know who you are  and that you must open yourself to new things.

TSB - Can you describe your first big break in the industry and how it impacted your career?

Karen - My first big break was working with Tori Amos, the artist. It opened doors to music and fashion together .

TSB - What does a typical day in your life as a creative professional look like?

Karen - Waking up early, green juice and a matcha ! Then music, and emails .. 

TSB - What role does intuition play in your creative process?

Karen - I do have sometimes a 7th sense  - on vibes and vibrations. I can always feel where someone is coming from, and from then, Decide to enter that space with positive vibes. 

TSB - How do you stay inspired and innovative in industries that are constantly evolving?

Karen - I stay inspired because I love what I do. It's just second nature to me to be creative.

TSB - What would you say are a couple of defining moments for you in terms of establishing your personal values and wanting these reflected in how you show up in the world?

Karen - It’s hard to say because there’s no real moment that can define you. For me it’s more about staying open to different versions of yourself that you can constantly learn from.

TSB - What have been some of the most rewarding moments of your career?

Karen - My most rewarding moments are when the finished product, makes noise, comes alive and receives an amazing an amazing reaction . When an artist feels their power on stage,I know I had a part of their confidence, and when a fashion show and shoot goes well.

TSB - When do you feel your most powerful and true self?

I feel my most powerful and true self when I complete my work successfully enough and we all win.