Danucera Diaries
Entry 23: Caitlin Burke
Tell us a little about yourself?
I'm a fashion stylist and creative, based in NYC. I started my career in magazines, then went on to become Style & Content Director at Moda Operandi for 7 years before launching my own business a few years ago.
Which is your favorite Danucera product and why?
I love the D22 Tonic. A toner is so underrated for truly glowing skin. I also love Cerabalm at night. It feels so rich and hydrating and I wake up glowing! I also like to wear the Master Mask under my LED light for an extra boost.
Why do you choose Danucera for your skincare routine?
I like that the products are clean and effective. Also that they’re developed by such a master esthetician. I have full trust in Danuta after going to Rescue Spa for years.
"I have full trust in Danuta after going to Rescue Spa for years. "
— Caitlin Burke —
Q: Many people don't have a full understanding of what being a stylist encompases, can you give us your perspective on this role and how it functions for brands?
Caitlin: "In the most elementary sense, a stylist makes outfits. This can take on many different forms; for personal clients, for brands, for celebrities and for editorials, etc. I focus mostly on the brand side, with some editorial and celebrity mixed in. For brand styling, I work with designers to establish a styling POV and direction for the season––essentially who is this woman and how is she wearing these clothes? From there I translate that direction and apply it to how I put together the finished looks for look books, campaigns, runway and ecomm (the outfits you see when shopping a brand's site). This involves not just how the pieces are presented, but also the jewelry, shoes, accessories, etc. needed to complete the look. Often this also extends to casting, creative and beauty direction, to complete the stylistic vision."
Q: You have a longstanding relationship with Daniella, can you tell us how you started working together and how that dynamic has evolved?
Caitlin: We can't agree on when or how we met, that's how long it's been. But it was around the inception of her brand, almost 15 years ago, while I was an editor and she was a new designer I was checking out. We have been friends and collaborators ever since, both believing in and supporting each other from day one. It's a very special relationship. We've built a level of trust over the years that allows us to agree and disagree in a really productive way that leads to the best result. I think that's the key to successful collaboration; genuine trust and respect for the other person's ideas and vision, and I cherish that in working with Daniella.
Q: What has been one of your proudest moments of your career thus far and what is a dream project you would love to be part of?
Caitlin: "Well speaking of Daniella, working with her all of these years and styling her past two runway collections has been such a proud moment. Our relationship aside, styling a CFDA nominated designer's show is a huge moment for me. But then having it also be for a dear friend, and a brand I've worked with and championed since the beginning, is just icing on the cake. I also finished my first international press tour this year for And Just Like That, which was a personal triumph, having been obsessed with Sex and The City my entire early life. My next dream project is styling someone for the Met Gala, which I'm actually surprised I haven't done yet, but manifesting that for next year."
Q: What are your non-negotiable rituals for grounding yourself, especially during hectic times like Fashion Week?
Caitlin: My "gratefuls": lying in bed the first 5 minutes after waking up, saying hi to my mom in heaven and listing all of the things I'm grateful for.
Q: Did you always dream of working in fashion as a kid? What would your 13-year old self think of who you are and what you are doing now?
Caitlin: I always knew I wanted to do something in the arts, not necessarily just fashion. I rotated between wanting to be an artist or painter, interior designer, makeup artist or fashion designer. Styling wasn't even a profession on my radar, but I think what I'm doing now with my personal content and Substack allows me to incorporate a lot of those other passions into my work. I think 13 year old me would be super happy and proud.
Q: Once fashion week is over. the first thing you are doing is ____________?
Caitlin: Getting back to the gym and my healthy routine!
