Meet Style Icon Claudia Behnan - the influencer and content creator that can inspire anyone with her inner radiance and fashion sense.
My name is Claudia Behnan (my brand) but on paper, it's Nilsson. I'm a person who has always been open and wants people around me to be happy and feel good in my company. I've worked in the fashion and interior design industry for 18 years and dressed many different personalities daily in my stores before deciding a little over 3 years ago to work 100% as a content creator and influencer, which I LOVE and a decision I've never regretted. On my platform, I still get to be an inspiration to young and older women and men daily, not just in how I put together an outfit but also in how I think as a parent in everyday life, and my followers get to join us in our family craziness both on Instagram and TikTok. Right now, it's full speed ahead. Autumn hit like a punch in the face, and I've barely had a quiet moment, but I love it when it's fast-paced. I've just had a performance at I-Huset, where we as influencers were handpicked to participate in an event and had 15 minutes on stage to show our capsule wardrobe (my must-have autumn clothes/shoes) to have now and throughout the year. Of course, I was wearing Blankens shoes on stage. I am in the process of having the honor of being a sidekick to a host at this year's Trade Gala in November (we're keeping our fingers crossed that everything will be finalized soon). Autumn and winter are in full swing, and I'm looking forward to all the fun that's going to happen.
We asked Claudia a few questions...
- What does shoes mean to you?
Having worked in the fashion industry for nearly 18 years before I started working as an influencer, shoes are so important. It’s the icing on the cake. When I choose an outfit for the day, I always think about shoes. They are the ones that make the outfit for me.
- 3 must haves for you in your closet?
I need a pair of clean sneakers and they must be versatile enough to complement any outfit. One of my demands is that they have to be clean, I just can't tolerate dirty shoes. However, my shoes almost never get dirty because I regularly rotate between my footwear. My collection ranges from heels and boots to sneakers, but a pair of spotless sneakers is the alpha and omega for me.
When it comes to clothing, an oversized blazer is a wardrobe essential. To achieve my signature look, I pair it with baggy jeans, an oversized t-shirt, and sneakers. This is my go-to style, and it's how people recognize me. I consistently opt for blazers and oversized items. Occasionally, I receive requests to showcase outfits that are more form-fitting, but that's just not for me. I can definitely wear tight jeans but I much more prefer oversized. Everything can preferably be oversized - hoodies, trousers, blazers. I'd rather wear my pants with a lower waist because they tend to be a bit larger, rather than opting for tight-fitted ones.
- Do you have any styling tips when putting together your outfit for the day?
Once again, I believe a blazer can solve many fashion dilemmas. You can wear it over a dress, pair it with a skirt, or casually throw it over a hoodie. If you don't already own an oversized blazer, I really think you should invest in one; it’s an amazing key item for me. You can also use your choice of footwear to elevate or tone down an outfit. Wear heels to achieve a more dressed-up appearance, or choose sneakers for a more relaxed, dressed-down vibe. You can also tuck your pants into a boot!
- What is your favorite shoe (heel, sneaker, sandal etc.)
As I've mentioned several times now, I have a deep affection for my sneakers, but I also cherish the feeling of being dressed up. Take, for example, my Riverside shoes; I've been wearing them almost every day recently because they are the PERFECT fall shoes. You can also wear them during summer but when there’s late summer weather like we’re having now, The Riverside is perfect. It’s so stylish. I actually saw it for the first time at one of your retailers in Gothenburg, Studio Tjugoett. When I went in there I first laid my eyes on The Jennie Bow and fell in love. Then I saw The Riverside. The shop assistant told me about the Blankens brand, explained the quality of the leather, and mentioned the production in Portugal, and I knew right away, "I must have these." Both The Jennie and The Riverside are timeless pieces. Imagine The Jennie styled with baggy jeans, a t-shirt, and an oversized blazer - chef’s kiss!
- Do you have any favourite Blankens shoe?
I received my Alexia Low Black Eco shoes yesterday, and they are absolutely wonderful! I plan to wear them with a denim outfit at an upcoming event. However, if I had to choose just one favorite, it would have to be The Riverside. I can comfortably wear them all day without experiencing any discomfort, and they complement every outfit perfectly. They are simply ideal.
