Q&A

She is one of New York’s most photographed faces, so it’s no surprise that Zani Gugelmann knows her way around a camera. The amateur shutterbug, who cites the portraiture of Irving Penn as inspiration, regularly captivates with her impeccable style, a seemingly effortless mix of downtown individuality and inherent confidence, much like her style icons Jane Birkin and Diane Kruger. This personal mix also defines her current line of jewelry, Santo, an elegant-but-edgy collection of silver bullet pendants that carry a personal message inside. After a summer of travels, the New Yorker is back in TriBeCa, a neighborhood she enthusiastically calls home. Here she shares with us her favorite people and places.

What was the first piece you purchased from the fall collections?
My Valentino coat! I can’t wait to wrap up in this black leather trench.

What’s your low-key look?
Around my apartment I try to mismatch as much as possible, like with this Diane von Furstenberg coat and dress.

Which one of your own jewelry designs do you wear most often?
I wear my Santo pendant with diamond pavé for a little evening bling. And I think every woman should have a great pair of earrings that work day and night, like these Alexis Bittar earrings I bought at Neiman Marcus.

You’re an amateur photographer, whose work do you especially like?
I’m drawn to black and white portraiture photography, particularly that of Irving Penn.

What’s your one traveling vice?
I always leave room in my suitcase for shoes! Louboutins are the best for a night out.

What’s your go-to accessory?
I always rely on great bags from Balenciaga, like this printed leather clutch.

Where do you like to go to disconnect?
The sand dunes in Colan, Peru are a mystical sanctuary where I find peace.