Two things that are quintessential New York City chic are real estate and fashion. So when TV network Bravo rolled out the cast of the brand-new, revamped Real Housewives of New York and Erin Lichy—a luxury real estate agent, interior designer, and all-around chic New York City person—was announced as a member, I was intrigued. As a longtime watcher of RHONY, I had my skepticism about the new version of the show, but now that we’re a few episodes in, I have to say these ladies have won me over.
Lichy, as the only born-and-bred New Yorker of the cast, has a certain edge to her that can’t be ignored. Let’s just say she lives up to her tagline. I not only loved her funny confessionals, loving relationship with her husband, lawyer/DJ Abe Lichy, and adorable, big Israeli family, but I also loved her personal style and eye for design.
Lichy is a real estate agent on Douglas Elliman’s Eklund Gomes Team and flips properties. She is also the founder of Homegirl, a renovation and interior design firm, and now, she can add Real Housewife to the list. I would describe her vibe as very on-trend, posh, and classic New York City chic. Her look reminds me of Jennifer Aniston. She’s clearly not afraid to play around and have fun with fashion, but you can tell that she knows what works for her. Naturally, when I heard she wanted to have drinks with me, the only answer to give her was "Absolutely.” I met Lichy in Downtown Manhattan at Zero Bond, where she greeted me in the chicest vintage Gucci miniskirt (which she told me she’s had forever), and her makeup was perfectly done, as she was on a busy day of doing press.
We both ordered a glass of wine and talked about all of the things two New York City women who love fashion would discuss: the brands we love, the best restaurants in the city, how she felt when she found out she was going to be a Housewife, being a mom in New York, dating in the city, and everything in between. Lichy is like the New York City fashion-person fairy godmother I never knew I needed. But not to worry—I’m sharing the really good stuff she told me, including her holy-grail fashion items, where she pulls style inspiration from, and her advice on leveling up your personal style.
Keep scrolling to read our conversation and shop the items Lichy swears by.
What fashion brands do you love that you have been wearing for years? Which brands do you have a newer love for?
For years, I’ve been wearing Bottega Veneta, Loewe, Levi’s jeans, and Saint Laurent.
Do you feel like the way you dress can impact your job as a Realtor?
For sure, 100%. I think the way you dress is very much an expression of who you are. I dress differently depending on what I’m selling. Whether it’s a Brooklyn townhouse or a Park Avenue condo, I dress to match the vibe of the occasion. When I’m working in interior design, I always choose fashionable comfort, such as Proenza Schouler boots and vintage Levi’s jeans, because I like to be very hands-on, and there are many moving parts.
How would you describe your personal style?
Timeless with a touch of trends! I love to mix vintage, classic pieces with a modern trend. I never shy away from an eclectic, unexpected statement piece but can also be caught in neutral outfits five days in a row. Think practical Carrie Bradshaw.
If you had a fashion holy-grail list, what items would be on it?
A chic yet practical everyday bag, a classic pair of sunglasses, my favorite vintage Levi’s jeans, a cashmere sweater, pumps, timeless gold hoops, and a little black dress.
Where do you pull inspiration from for your wardrobe?
I love to read print copies of fashion magazines. I also like to reference runway shows. Both archival and new seasons bring so much inspiration to my closet.
As a chic New York Realtor turned Real Housewife, how would you advise someone looking to level up their personal style?
Instead of spending money on fast fashion, invest in pieces you’ll have for a long time. It’s better for the environment to own fewer high-quality items than to constantly purchase trendy pieces that will be thrown out after a few washes. For example, the leather jacket I wore on episode one of RHONY season 14 is a jacket I’ve had since high school!
What trends are you most excited about for fall 2023?
I love fall because you can start layering again, and I love boots!
A chic yet practical everyday bag:
A classic pair of sunglasses:
Levi’s jeans:
A cashmere sweater:
Pumps:
Timeless gold hoops:
A little black dress:
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