Elina Naan is an author who has written 2 books of poetry, hosted a podcast about Love, founded the Moon Space studio, studied leadership coaching at EBS and founded the Heart Letters initiative. Loves nature and creates mostly through words or phrases, writing articles and moderating conversations. Elina believes in the importance of a balance between mental and physical health, helping organisations and private clients to stay in better shape through inspirational trainings and talks.

As Haruu shares many of the same values as Elina, our paths are intertwined. Now we had the chance to interview her!

In the following article, you can read about how to style yourself sustainably and comfortably, Elina’s suggestions for the little ones in the family and tips for the festive season. Have fun reading!

How would you describe your style? To what extent do you follow trends and current fashion? Is there anything that particularly appeals to you lately?

Hmm. I don’t think about my own look and style for years now. It’s so settled and probably consists of the keywords: layers, natural, trendy-not-following-trendy and wear-what-you-want!

At the same time, I have a total phobia – I refuse to wear anything the stylists want me to wear! However, I’m happy to support small makers, buy vintage items and increasingly try not to support mass fashion with my purchases.

I don’t follow trends. Rather, I have somehow always been ahead of the times since I was a teenager, through the clothes I wear and the way I feel. It’s often the case that when I wear something, other people find it a bit weird, but 2-3 years later, the whole community is wearing things like that. I’ve moved on by then. Forever basic things don’t go away, of course.

What do you mainly look for when choosing clothes/accessories?

1. Material.
2. Is it a “minukas“.
3. Convenience.
4. I’m wondering if it will fit with my existingwardrobe (capsule wardrobe) and how long this new thing will stay in my wardrobe.

Who has inspired you the most in the fashion world?

I don’t consciously keep up with the fashion world for a long time now – there are much more exciting things that excite me and I give my time to. But, if I am somehow drawn to the fashion world, it is through stories and personalities – that’s how I sometimes find my way to their work. The person, the persona and the WHY of the fashion designer has to speak to me. Then there is a deep charm!

What are your TOP 3 items to create a festive mood in your outfit?

1. Large earrings.
2. High ceilings.ˇ
3. Contexts.
   
   .. and there you have it!

How did you find your way to Haroon? What do you appreciate most about the Haruu brand?

I like family doctors. Just knowing that love is behind the brand. The first thing that caught Haruu’s eye was that the collections were for kids and adults – both at the same time.

And on the other hand, quality material – for me it’s very important that the body can breathe and that you can wear layers.

Your 2 TOP favourites from Haruu’s work:

1. Merino’s “warm underwear”, which is in fact a set of dresses to be worn on the one hand, and even a bottom layer of dresses, kimonos on the other!
   
2. Silk party – pyjamas. I’d like to roll around in it all the time, both at home and at parties. It’s just vaguely melting against the skin.
   
   

How do you choose clothes for the little ones in the family? What have you noticed about their preferences?

When my child was younger and I could choose most of the clothes for him, I naturally preferred natural materials and weatherproof sets. Now it’s interesting to see how a wealthy teenager can be inspired to make more sustainable choices, while at the same time being fascinated by the fast-fashion world because she can buy fancy and cheap things with her pocket money.
I would say that if I buy clothes for my child, we decide together, but I let him make his own choices with his own pocket money, because we all have to go through different stages of development and I don’t believe too much in prohibition. Luckily he’s a huge fan of my style – so hopefully I’ll inspire!

Do you have any tips on how to easily style everyday clothes with festive items without having to change your entire wardrobe?

I myself absolutely love layers. Back in the day, when I taught more yoga classes, I would throw on a dress, tennis shoes and a tee after class, add some earmuffs and a hat, and I was ready for meetings in the city or whatever.

Speaking of festive, sometimes all you need is a red lipstick, bigger ears and a pair of sneakers for heels. Leave the blouse on but add a sparkly skirt underneath or add a jacket to the top. Matching and styling with a few items is a fun game!

What is the 1 piece of clothing that has reminded you of a particular memory throughout the ages? Do you have one? Share it with us!

Interestingly, this question reminded me of my grandfather’s fur coat, which had pockets for cash in the form of stacks. Sometimes I look at my own hats with that feeling too.

Your 3 recommendations for the winter season – how to stay stylish, happy and healthy?

I think the priority is not to stay stylish. The most important thing is to stay present as yourself – and indeed style can support that. But about the really important stuff: making sure your body gets enough exercise and keeping your vitamin levels in order. In terms of happiness – keep your loved ones and allow yourself to be kept.
And speaking of real style: wear what you want! What makes you happy, makes you more you. It doesn’t matter what’s fashionable or what others think. Do You!