When Lauren Kelly was a child, her father, Sean, operated a gallery out of their New York City apartment. Featuring works by the likes of Marina Abramović, Robert Mapplethorpe, and Joseph Kosuth, Sean Kelly Gallery is now a powerhouse in the art world, with an expansive space in Hudson Yards. Kelly joined the family business after college. Her job as director involves tasks that range from the high-level to the hands-on — she does everything from scouting new talent to traveling to fairs across the globe to physically unpacking pieces of work.
The Cut caught up with Kelly in between business trips to talk about why she loves curve-hugging sweater dresses, how Instagram has helped push her style boundaries, and why she’s embracing headbands.
On the shoes she wears every day: In the fall, it’s my Vince suede sneakers — they slip on easily when I’m running out of the house, but they’re stylish enough to wear to work. If I’m going out after work or have a special client visit, then I’ll do a statement shoe like my sparkly Gucci loafers. And once it gets colder, I’ll swap into my studded Chloé boots or this new gray snakeskin Marc Fisher pair.
On going out after work: I rarely change unless I have a formal gala. However, the one thing I’ll do is swap out of my more comfortable shoes into something higher, snazzier, and more statement-worthy. I tend to wear really classic pieces to work, so I’ll jazz things up with fun shoes or belts. Most recently I’ve been getting into headbands.
On what she wears to big meetings: This time of year, I love a formfitting knit dress or sweater-and-skirt combo. It’s a classic silhouette that shows off my curves. My favorite is by Rachel Comey; I’ll wear it with a blazer and I’m power-pose ready.
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