been interested in style, although I’m not quite sure I understood what “style” meant at the time. I just loved shopping and finding new outfits that I could wear to school. Clothes made me feel special and it was a way for me to express who I was. I grew up dancing with a lot of girls who went to private school and I never understood wearing the same thing every day. I’ve had several phases: Age 10, I was into stirrup pants and oversized sweaters topped off with a high ponytail and a scrunchie. When I was 15 it was the late ‘90s which was an excellent time for fashion in my opinion. Lots of platform shoes, flared jeans, plaid tops but also the occasional skirt with tights, matte lipstick.
ON HER STYLE TODAY
When I was in my 20s I wore really tight clothes and heels. I was way more social and always had an event to attend. Now, I’m all about comfort. I’m either in sneakers or boots, a jumpsuit, or jeans and a nice sweater. Simple, but even if I don’t have plans, I’d like to think that if a last minute drink came up, I’d still look ready to go out!
ON HER FIRST INVESTMENT PIECE
There was a time in my early 20s where I wasn’t sure that performing was going to be a long term career for me. I ended up with an opportunity to assist Joe Zee as he was styling everything from Vanity Fair covers to Justin Timberlake’s album cover. I had never been exposed to so many high end brands and it became a slight addiction! I remember I bought myself my first pair of Jimmy Choos, on sale of course. I remember thinking, wow this is so much money, but I felt like a million bucks in those things so it was worth it. I eventually ended up with a closet full of Jimmy Choos.
ON DRESSING FOR THE STAGE
My job is interesting because when I arrive at work I change into costumes. We wear these beautiful costumes at Moulin Rouge that are mostly corsets. So before and after the show, I’m looking to be as comfortable as possible. When I look out in the audience, I love seeing people dressed up, so when I’m seeing a show, I try to do the same!
3 THINGS WITH ERIKA HUNTER
3 careers you’d pursue if not for your current profession:
Talent Agent/Manager, stylist, lady of leisure ;)
3 things you never leave home without:
Hair elastics (though it’s often the thing I forget!), earrings and rings, Clé De Peau concealer
Your uniform in 3 pieces:
A simple tee, relaxed jeans, a sweater
3 things on your holiday wishlist:
I’m always looking for a new signature piece for the winter: Right now it’s a long coat, winter boots, a new scarf
Thank you Ericka!
Ericka was photographed at The Al Hirschfeld Theater in New York City by Bryan Derbala.
