About Rachel
Rachel Schwartzmann is a writer and creator based in New York City.
Rachel has interviewed hundreds of artists and entrepreneurs and writes about books, creativity, design, and style.
She's also the host of Slow Stories—a podcast that explores living, working, and creating more intentionally in our digital age.
Rachel is working on her first book, Slow Stories, which will be published by Chronicle.
Instagram: @rachelschwartzmann
What made you decide to pursue a career in fashion?
I don't work in fashion officially, but style has always been part of my life. I initially wanted to pursue fashion writing, so I launched a fashion Tumblr as a high school senior, which evolved into a boutique content company I ran for over five years. (Its editorial mission was to explore how style and creativity could contribute to some of the world's bigger conversations.) The demands of growing a digital business while navigating one of the toughest cities in the world led to my inevitable burnout, both online and offline. I was curious to see how others navigated the tension of living, working, and creating in our digital age. So I closed the website and formally launched a podcast called Slow Stories. The project has helped me reclaim my relationship with pace and ultimately allowed me to return to my first dream of becoming a writer. With that said, I'm working on my first book, Slow Stories, which will be published next year.Even though fashion isn't my primary professional focus, I will always value style as a mode of self-expression.
What do you think are the current and future trends in fashion?
It's hard to say. People are putting the personal back in personal style. It seems that for many, wearing what they want will remain top of mind regardless of what dictates the market or trend pages. (And I'm all for it.)
Where do you get your inspiration?
Art, books, design, travel—the list goes on!
How do you feel about living in NYC? Where is your favorite place in NYC? What will you wear there?
I practically grew up in NYC (this February marked my eighteenth anniversary), so I have a lot of feelings about living here. These days you'll find me at Prospect Park. I'll typically grab an oat milk cappuccino from Cafe Grumpy or Winner and take an afternoon stroll (golden hour is always my favorite time of day). It's still quite cold as I write this, and my current uniform is a warm hat, oversized wool turtleneck, black leggings, black boots, and a statement coat.
Look 1
Which women inspire you the most？
So many—but closer to home, I'd say my grandmother Sharon. She's a lifelong painter who achieved considerable creative success later in life. Regardless of her professional practice and accomplishments, she's an amazing person. Her story reminds me to keep doing (and working at) what I love.
This year's International Women's Day theme is #EmbraceEquity. What does this mean to you?
I've always believed that small actions can amount to significant change. I'm just one woman, but I think that my work as a writer and interviewer plays a considerable role. I strive to feature individuals who are changing their communities and ask nuanced questions about building a more equitable world.
How did you make and pick your SNIDEL outfit?
As warmer weather approaches, I'm ready to shed my layers and wear transitional pieces that work for this unpredictable season: enter the printed floral dress. I styled these dresses with elements that pay homage to spring's core aesthetic while considering the realities of life in New York. You never know where the day—or weather—will take you.
What do you think about SNIDEL?
I'm so happy to be introduced to SNIDEL through this collaboration. Based on the looks I've styled, I'm impressed with the quality and attention to detail. I look forward to wearing these pieces for years to come!
