“Everyone tries to leave and make it big in NYC because they say there's no money in this city, but how can it survive if there's no talent here?”

~ Tina Nguyen

By Catzie Vilayphonh  |  Send to Friend

Tina Nguyen is nearly as pre-occupied as I am. In addition to being one of Philadelphia's finest stylists (ably demonstrated in our first print issue), Tina's also the store manager at Topstitch, churning out re-constructed vintage from the backroom studio and convincing customers that accessories are necessities. Did I also mention she's also got a degree in art, and has exhibited her work in galleries? And she travels everywhere on a scooter.

Some people would call this multi-tasking, perhaps refer to her as a Renaissance Woman. Maybe a little Career ADD too. But one thing's for sure, Tina does it all with style.

Catz: You studied graphic design in college, but you've worked at various boutiques in the city while amassing an impressive wardrobe. You've also styled numerous photoshoots and videos and have even catered a wedding or two. Am I missing anything?

Tina: No videos! Or have I? I actually took a minor in graphic design at Moore and graduated with a major in textile design. I spent the last two years there studying sculpture and hiding in the welding room. My entire thesis was in steel and rubber ... my print teacher hated me.

Above: Some of Tina's artwork.

Catz: When you were in school for design and making hundreds of latex molars, did you ever think you'd ever wander into the world of fashion?

Tina: Backed with the Textile Major, it was an easy transition, not to mention my weakness for beautiful clothes. But I never expect myself to be anywhere, I mean who knows what I'll be doing in the next few years? Teaching? I'm a firm believer that the best way to understand yourself is through as many experiences as possible. This is probably why I dabbled in so many things during school. The rest is always an organic process.

Catz: Recently you were invited as a speaker at Moore College to welcome in all the little freshman kiddies. How did that feel?

Tina: Flattering. And terrifying. I have to be the worst public speaker, ever. But the morning I went to give my speech I almost got into a fight with this middle-aged woman who threw a bottle at me when I was on my scooter. That, coupled with how nervous the other speakers were, multiplied by my need to spread hope and some words of wisdom for the seeds got me through it. I think I'm giving another one for freshman orientation in September. Wish me luck, hopefully it will not be as adrenaline-induced.

Catz: I know the answer will always change, but what would you describe as your style?

Tina: First of all, style never goes out of trend, but right now? The past few years I've played cowgirl and Indian to Jane of the Jungle. I'm currently in this Nordic-yacht-club stage. This upcoming season for me is all about unisex clothing, well-tailored pieces mixed with small scale prints, gritty textures. Alexander McQueen's fall line with Marni's color palette? Heaven. I love sculptural pieces that define form and are unafraid to take risks.

Catz: You also love food as much as you do fashion. How's that coming along?

Tina: It's true. I'm obsessed. I see a diverse and adventurous palate indicative of a robust life. I cook the way I robe -- with as much flavor, texture and color as possible. And I consider all condiments "food accessories."

Catz: At Topstitch, your input is very much involved with everything from the sales to the marketing to the gallery installations. Besides having a 24-hour studio space in the back and being able to drink on the job, what are the perks of being a store manager?

Tina: If you really know me then you'd know I'm not that much of a drinker [winks] but the real perks vary from working with my best friends to helping select what treasures the fine ladies of Philadelphia will adorn themselves with. Yes I'm a jewelry farmer.

Modeling jewelry fom Topstitch. (Photos by Kelly Turso)

Catz: So you've grown up in Jersey, and now you're living in Philly. Are you gonna leave us?

Tina: No way. I'm in love with Philadelphia. I'm into being a big fish in a small pond. Everyone tries to leave and make it big in NYC because they say there's no money in this city, but how can it survive if there's no talent here? I love the people here, complete with all their eccentricities. Unless it's a real career opportunity -- teaching shore excursions for cruise lines in some tropical local, I'm not going anywhere.

Catz: For some people who get absorbed into their work, their friends and families have to be the complete opposite because it provides a release. But just about every one of your friends is a photographer, designer, seamstress, makeup artist or artist. How do you maintain your world when everybody's doing the same thing?

Tina: We build each other up. It's inspiring to be constantly surrounded by like-minded and creative individuals. And it fits within my goals to get everybody I know off the monetary system and back on the barter system. I know way too many skilled craftsmen not to have anything specially handmade. I'm not concerned on who's jocking my shit or who came up with what first. It just re-enforces what you know is your own personal style.