Finance

Patricia Voto, the visionary behind "One/Of" atelier, has recently unveiled a stunning transformation of her Upper East Side workspace. For half a decade, this sun-drenched apartment has served as both her home and the creative hub where bespoke garments are born. Now, with the expert touch of interior designer Britt Zunino, the space has been meticulously re-envisioned to embody a harmonious blend of intimate domesticity and sophisticated sartorial artistry. Voto's goal was to create an environment where clients feel as comfortable as if they were visiting a friend, fostering an experience that is both inviting and inspiring, rather than formidable.

Voto's design philosophy centers on the textile itself. Each garment at One/Of begins its life not on a sketchpad, but with the tactile exploration of exquisite fabrics—Italian brocades, unexpected jacquards, and painterly florals. Many of these materials are sourced as deadstock or excess yardage from the very mills supplying prestigious houses like Oscar de la Renta and Prada, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and uniqueness. This approach, rescuing existing materials and reconfiguring them into singular pieces, is the essence of the brand's name, One/Of, signifying that every creation is truly one-of-a-kind. This unique process necessitates a client-designer interaction that is deeply personal and collaborative, making the physical space an indispensable element of the overall brand experience.

After five years, Voto felt the time was right to refresh her atelier, and she entrusted Britt Zunino, a co-founder of Studio DB, with the task. Zunino possessed a distinctive understanding of Voto’s vision, having first experienced the One/Of process as a client herself. This shared appreciation for vibrant hues, rich textures, and intricate patterns allowed for an immediate synergy between the two. Zunino's design ethos pushed the boundaries even further, embracing unusual combinations to create a truly distinctive aesthetic.

The entrance immediately sets a unique tone. A geometric brocade envelops the vestibule, creating a dense, graphic, and slightly whimsical ambiance reminiscent of Prada. This fabric ingeniously conceals doors leading to private areas, functioning both as a curtain and a clever camouflage. Above, a small, chinoiserie-inspired gold fixture casts a gentle glow, while a vintage cabinet anchors the corner, often accompanied by Rico, Voto’s rescue husky, adding to the homely charm. Zunino notes that this design choice was a strategic way to manage the apartment's existing architectural complexities, creating a sense of both concealment and revelation.

Beyond the vestibule, the main room unfolds into a softer, more expansive space. The walls are painted in a delicate Misty Blush by Benjamin Moore, complemented by a slightly darker pink molding that frames the room, infusing the light with warmth and casting a universally flattering glow. The ceiling captivates with Calico Supernova wallpaper, a Studio DB collaboration with Calico. Its gilded surface is adorned with starburst motifs and intricate stitching, drawing inspiration from embroidery and jewelry, adding a touch of celestial elegance. As Voto describes, the gold immediately draws the eye, followed by the discovery of the nuanced details layered upon it.

A luxurious, golden-toned rug covers the floor, providing a soft foundation for the room's low, inviting furniture. At the center, a marble table is surrounded by chairs, serving as the focal point for fittings. The surfaces are thoughtfully arranged with an eclectic collection of objects—a tulipiere, shell candlesticks by Sylvie MacMillan, a sculptural brown vase by Sophia Lou Jacobsen, and lacquered Chinese side tables from IME Vintage adorning the mantel—each piece contributing to a curated yet lived-in atmosphere.

One wall features densely layered fabric swatches, a working tapestry of florals against checks, brocades against stripes. This element, a fixture from before the redesign, was deliberately retained by Zunino, who remembered its charm from her first visit. It serves as an ongoing invitation for clients to select their fabric and envision their truly unique garment.

Opposite this display, the fitting area is discreetly tucked behind Schumacher curtains, adorned with soft florals and geometric trim. To amplify the shimmer of the gilt ceiling, Zunino integrated various lighting fixtures, opting for vintage pieces with rechargeable bulbs to avoid extensive rewiring. Their gentle uplight bathes the room in a warm, inviting glow.

The bathroom offers a more vibrant experience, featuring a hand-painted mural by Mitchell Moon. This dynamic composition unfurls across the walls and extends to the ceiling, with its looping, almost hallucinatory forms evolving organically with each visit from the artist. Voto recalls the mural's progressive expansion, transforming the bathroom into an exuberant, artistic statement.

In contrast, the bedroom provides a serene retreat. Painted in a muted, mossy green and featuring subtle millwork, it exudes a quiet, contained ambiance. Quilted bedding from Studio Ford layers the bed, while a Sixpenny sofa and Tennant New York lamps contribute to a sense of relaxed comfort. This room remained unfinished for years, serving as a private sanctuary where Voto and Zunino retreated. Completing it represented a shift towards nurturing internal tranquility, acknowledging that the magic of creation could coexist with personal repose.

Maintaining the showroom within a personal residence demands a meticulous daily routine. Each morning, before clients arrive, the apartment is reset—floors vacuumed, curtains straightened, candles lit—ensuring an effortless and polished presentation. Most clients remain unaware of this dual function, often inquiring about Voto's neighborhood residence, to which she playfully confirms her proximity. After five years, and now with its thoughtful renovation, the apartment has achieved a state of complete resolution. It functions as more than just a showroom or a home; it is a singular space where fashion is conceived, tailored, and inherently lived within.

Capri pants, known by various names such as pedal pushers or clam diggers, are once again at the forefront of fashion. This revived trend, previously a staple of the Y2K era, has been reimagined for 2026 with higher waistlines, simplified designs, and a generally more sophisticated appeal. The fashion world, including top designers and style influencers, is embracing this versatile wardrobe essential, proving its enduring charm and adaptability for contemporary aesthetics.

The Resurgence of Cropped Trousers: A 2026 Fashion Revelation

In the dynamic landscape of 2026 fashion, cropped trousers have made a remarkable return, capturing the attention of trendsetters and runway curators alike. This season, leading fashion houses presented varied interpretations of the iconic silhouette, signaling its widespread acceptance and renewed prominence. Here’s a detailed look at how these chic garments are being integrated into modern wardrobes, offering endless styling possibilities for diverse tastes and occasions:

Elegant Polka Dot Style

Embrace the warmth of the season with polka-dotted cropped trousers, a look that has become synonymous with summer chic since Hailey Bieber famously sported them. For a refined yet relaxed ensemble, pair these eye-catching pants with a flowing blouse, complemented by laid-back accessories such as a woven tote and flat sandals. This combination strikes a perfect balance between playful charm and effortless elegance, making it ideal for weekend outings or garden parties.

Sophisticated Minimalism

Channel a sleek, minimalist aesthetic inspired by the 1990s by pairing black cropped trousers with a delicate pointelle knit camisole and a crisp, button-down shirt. To complete this understated yet polished look, opt for kitten-heeled thong sandals and a bohemian-inspired handbag. This outfit exudes a quiet confidence, perfect for those who appreciate clean lines and subtle details.

Vibrant '80s Flair

For a bold statement that diverges from recent trends, draw inspiration from Versace's Spring/Summer 2026 collection with a colorful, '80s-infused pairing. Combine bright cropped trousers with a vibrant top, and temper the audacious palette with sleek black accessories featuring metallic hardware. This ensemble is designed to turn heads, offering a lively and energetic addition to your fashion repertoire.

Retro Charm with Gingham

Indulge in a nostalgic mood with gingham cropped trousers, styled with a striking slime green cardigan for a playful contrast. Enhance the retro vibe with cat-eye sunglasses and classic fisherman sandals. This charming and distinctive look is perfect for those who enjoy infusing their daily wear with a touch of vintage character.

Accentuate with Accessories

Start with a simple, uncluttered foundation—a square-neck tank top and pristine white cropped trousers provide the perfect canvas. Elevate this minimalist base with a carefully chosen beaded necklace and an intricately woven macramé belt, adding texture and visual interest. Finish the look with simple leather flip-flops for a cohesive and stylish outcome where the accessories truly take center stage.

Uptown Chic Inspired by Audrey Hepburn

Capture the timeless elegance of Audrey Hepburn by styling your cropped trousers with a charming plaid top and sophisticated ballet flats. For cooler days, add a khaki windbreaker for a preppy, polished finish. This classic combination offers an air of graceful sophistication, perfect for refined urban explorations or leisurely brunches.

Effortless Layering for Warm Climates

On balmy days when comfort is key, a breezy floral dress, like those from Merlette, paired with lace capris offers a delightful solution. Allow the delicate lace to subtly peek out from beneath the dress, and complete this airy ensemble with summery accessories such as a tonal necklace and simple flip-flops. This layered look provides both comfort and a touch of romantic whimsy.

As a fashion commentator, I find the resurgence of cropped pants particularly compelling. It speaks to a cyclical nature of style, yet with each return, there’s a fresh reinterpretation that makes it feel entirely new. This trend encourages wearers to revisit and reinvent classic pieces, fostering creativity in personal expression. It reminds us that true style isn't about chasing fleeting fads, but about thoughtfully integrating elements that resonate with our individual aesthetic, adapting them to the present moment, and making them our own. This season's cropped trousers are more than just clothing; they are a canvas for personal style, inviting us to play with proportions, textures, and accessories to create looks that are both modern and timeless.