Fashion Radar: Kelley Ash

It’s not the first time you’ve seen Kelley Ash on Live Fast – we’ve featured her modeling work in SGC-NYC and Everly‘s look books before – but no matter how much we’re crushing on her in photographs, it’s become crystal clear that this All-American babe is more than just a pretty face. She curates vintage clothing and accessories to a T in her online shop, Wild at Heart Vintage, and her nonchalant ease at branding herself (check out her blog, too) only confirms that she’s well on her way to becoming a fashion powerhouse. We had a chance to sit down with Miss Ash and talk about life, and here’s what she had to say:

All photos by Andrew Kuykendall

LF: How & when did you start Wild at Heart vintage?

KA: I started Wild at Heart vintage when our closet collapsed on my boyfriend’s head. Literally. I knew it was time to start selling some clothes. It was hard because I have had some amazing pieces that I did not want to part with. It’s something I always wanted to do, but with modeling I never really found the time – and on my days off the last thing I want to do is take more pictures. In the end it all worked out, and I really happy with Wild at Heart. I can’t imagine doing anything else.

LF: How did your love of vintage come about? Why online?

KA: When I was in high school I would always drag my girlfriend to this amazing thrift store. We would steal my mom’s car and drive there. I loved it and my friends hated it, they would wait in the car for me… I would find the most amazing stuff. I liked the fact that I did not dress like anyone else and I never really was keen on the fashion. I did love Contempo Casuals though but it was way too expensive for my mom’s income. She would only take me to Contempo Casuals if I passed a test or got an A on my report card. Which rarely ever happened. I chose online because I think the internet has taken over the world as we know it. Stores are hardly surviving unless you’re Forever 21… I just don’t get it.

LF: What’s your background?

KA: I am a mutt. I’m French, Irish, English and German.

LF: Who / what inspires your style?

KA: I was totally obsessed with Stevie Nicks forever. Still am. I just feel like everyone is dressing and designing clothes like that now so it’s time to move on. I have been really into the 60′s mod styling. I love all the bright bold colors and Edie Sedgwick was a babe.

LF: Do you think style is innate, or can it be learned / taught?

KA: Style is something you have or you don’t.

LF: What are you wearing right now?

KA: This sounds sleazy. I am wearing a vintage Joan Jett shirt and denim American flag shorts.

LF: If you could be born again in a different time, when would it be?

KA: Late 60′s early 70′s.

LF: What is your biggest challenge as a model?

KA: Figuring out how to spend all my money.

LF: What is your fave / least fave thing about yourself?

KA: I learned to love my gap teeth.In high school I used to wear mini rubber bands on my teeth. I wanted braces so badly, but my mom would not let me. I am so thankful I never got them.

LF: Who is your favorite photog you have had a chance to work with?

KA: I love working with Andrew Kuykendall. He is so so so talented and really good in the sack.

LF: Who are you dying to shoot with?

KA: I would love to shoot with Peter Lindberg.

LF: What do you have coming up? Any exciting project you want to share?

KA: I just started designing bell bottoms and flares using vintage fabrics. My plan is to have them one-of-a-kind and only make a few pieces a week. Made in the USA baby! I can’t wait to share them with the world, I have really good feelings about them.

LF: What is your favorite destination, for work or personal purposes?

KA: I am obsessed with the desert. I love shooting there. I someday wish to live in a trailer park in the desert. I prefer Joshua Tree, they have some tasty vegan spots there.

LF: Name a song that describe your life…

KA: American Girl by the awesome Tom Petty.

LF: Do you believe in true love?

KA: I will when I meet Johnny Depp.

LF: Favorite fashion trend of all time?

KA: Bell bottoms.

LF: In your opinion, what is LA’s best kept secret?

KA: Johnny Depp’s house.

LF: How fast do you live?

KA: Always a need for more speed. Keep on truckin’.