The CultureMap Interview
Man repeller Leandra Medine talks harem shorts, red pumps and the unapologetic female intellect
High-fashion enthusiast Leandra Medine started the popular Man Repeller blog in 2010. Since then she has dedicated her time to celebrating fashion trends that women adore and men abhor.
Man repelling is not a code of dress as much as it is an attitude. To learn more, we chatted with Medine prior to her March 6 appearance at Neiman Marcus Northpark for the premiere of her new collection, "The Man Repeller x PJK...just saying," a collaboration with creative director Chelsey Santry of PJK.
CultureMap: What was the first "man repelling" outfit you saw that gave you the idea for your website?
Leandra Medine: Some harem shorts at Topshop; from behind, the drop crotch gave off the illusion of the Lion King's face.
"Man repelling is a high-fashion, irreverent process of elimination that allows us to weed out bad seeds," Medine says.
CM: How do you describe the Man Repeller?
LM: I would say it's a go-to source for women, but it's probably better suited that I ask you that question. I am not my reader.
CM: How did the collaboration with PJK come about?
LM: [Chelsey Santry and I] were connected by a mutual business associate and appreciated each other's vibes.
CM: What's in your purse?
LM: I don't carry a purse anymore. In my pocket there is a credit card and red lipstick.
CM: What is the most "man repelling" item you own?
LM: I have no idea. "Man repelling" in the most rudimentary sense is not about singular items.
CM: Can you give us three wardrobe essentials?
LM: A white blouse, ripped jeans and red pumps.
CM: What's your workout routine like?
LM: Ha!
CM: What is man repelling all about? Does it only pertain to clothing?
LM: It's a high-fashion, irreverent process of elimination that allows us to weed out bad seeds. No, it's not all about the clothing. Man Repeller is a celebration of unapologetic female intellect.
CM: What are some spring and summer trends that you love?
LM: I will forever endorse the Canadian tuxedo sprinkled over a healthy dose of plaid.
---
Join Leandra Medine March 6, 6-8 pm, at Neiman Marcus Northpark, level 2, for the premiere of her "The Man Repeller x PJK...just saying" collection.