Wanderwoman Diaries: New York or Nowhere
For this feature, I am excited to have Fashion Designer, Georgine Ratelband, gracing our virtual pages.
I met Georgine several years ago at her first NYFW show—not only were her designs remarkable, but her personality and zest for life just shined through and you felt it in her work as each look walked down the runway. If you are not familiar with her designs, I definitely would check them out—I would describe them as the perfect blend of rock ‘n’ roll meets sophisticated. I love her style so much, I own a bunch of her pieces and will probably be filling my closet with some from her new collection!
Speaking to her made me remember why I love NY so much and wanted to share that love with anyone not feeling that NY love anymore with everything that is going on right now. Let’s hear more about what Georgine has to say on making her dreams come true in The Big Apple.
Name
Georgine Ratelband
Originally From
The Netherlands
Current Location
New York, USA
How many countries have you lived in?
Seven—Holland, Belgium, UK, Spain, Thailand, Singapore and Italy
How many countries have you visited?
I wouldn’t be able to tell you an exact number! Because of my work I have the amazing opportunity to travel to a lot of different places all around the world, I have been to many countries in South East Asia. Burma was by far my favorite!
What brought you to New York?
Ever since being a little girl I had an infatuation with New York! I always dreamt of moving here one day.
What do you find the most challenging about living in another country?
That I miss my friends and family back home especially during the past couple of years when European citizens were not allowed to visit the US.
The most rewarding?
Learning about its culture and meeting new people
What is your most favorite thing about living in New York?
What do I not love about New York is the better question! I love how diverse and unique this city is. I love the architecture, the endless restaurants, I love getting lost in the city and finding a new street or a new shop. I love the people! Everybody is different and international which makes for a super fun atmosphere, I love the 4 seasons although I wouldn’t mind summer to last a little longer. I love that you can hop on a ferry and get to a beach within 45 minutes!!!
I love that you never know who you can meet. New York is that kind of city that’s full of surprises! You may be out and before you know it you meet a new friend and find yourself doing something completely spontaneous.
Least favorite
The rats!
Is there anywhere else you would choose to move to? If so, where would that be and why?
There was a point where I wanted to move to Italy because I love the people, the culture and the food but I don’t think I could ever leave New York.
How has the Covid-19 pandemic affected your life?
I used to spend about 4-6 months per year away from NYC and all of a sudden I found myself being here full time! I got to explore my city and discovering all sorts of cool and new neighborhoods and things to do here.
What is one thing you learned during the pandemic that you would like to share with others?
The pandemic taught me to take a step back and enjoy the simple things in life.
Based on current travel restrictions are you happy to be where you are or do you wish you were somewhere else?
I’ve never been happier. There’s no other place I wish to be right now.
What are your thoughts on travel?
Just get on the plane and go ;).
Where is your favorite place to travel?
I love going to Europe in the summer, there is something in the air, everybody is in a good mood, I love the long summer nights, I love the smell of the ocean, seeing the flowers in bloom and there is this easy, laid back and simple approach where its all about living in the moment and enjoying good food and drinks with friends and family.
What inspires you?
I am always inspired by my clients! My woman is super unapologetic and has a strong personal style.
What advice would you give to other expats?
My advice would be to get out there and have fun. Don’t only make friends with your fellow countrymen/ women. Living in a new country can be stressful and lonely at times but just remember you’re not alone. Try to find a new hobby or find a restaurant/café that you love and go there often, before you know it you will find yourself a friend and slowly start growing your new family.
What advice would you give to other people looking to make the move to New York?
New York is an amazing city, but it does come with a heavy price tag… You have to work very hard and have a strong personality.
More about Georgine
Follow Georgine on Instagram for a daily dose of fashion inspiration. Want more fashion? Check out her website: georgine.com
See her NYC Picks here.