Words: Jessica Weingarten

Image: MaryChingShanghai

Canadian model Irina Lazareanu is teaming up with Japanese retailer Seibu to design her own line of clothing and accessories. Seibu, a department store, is a mass retailer located in Japan, Hong Kong, and Indonesia (similar to the US’ Macy’s). Now, she is following the footsteps of fellow supermodel and her close friend Kate Moss, who previously launched a line with British fashion giant Topshop. Perhaps, Kate will even model Irina’s clothing as Irina modeled Kate’s collection for the Topshop catalogue.

There’s no doubt that Irina has an impeccable sense of personal style. Typically dressing in Katherine Hepburn-esque blazers, paperboy trousers, and feminine frocks, she is an inspiration for designers and fashionistas alike (just ask Karl Lagerfeld and Nicolas Ghesquière). Lately, she has been working the menswear look with a closely cropped haircut, lots of classic dark tweed and herringbone pieces, and briefcase satchels. Irina is best known with mixing high-end designer pieces with both lower end items and vintage pieces.

Irina is also a veteran supermodel.  She has walked in countless runway shows following her contract with Giovanni Models (based out of Montreal) in 1999. She has been a frequent face at runway shows for Chanel, Balenciaga, Lanvin, Alexander McQueen, and many more. She also dabbles with music, both composing songs and performing them. She co-wrote the song “La Belle et la Bête” with Pete Doherty, her former fiancé, which was featured on his Down In Albion album.  She also recorded an album with her ex-boyfriend Sean Lennon (yes, from that clan of Lennon). She previewed 4 songs off of the album during a Chanel show in 2007.