Maryam Kahn is best known as chef & owner of her Detroit-based food pop up, Khana. Her 7+ years of cooking in & beyond Detroit have opened doors to different creative & professional avenues that continue to shape the trajectory of her work, which remains unpredictable (in a good way). While she’s not working as an events & philanthropy coordinator for Tito’s Vodka by day and chef by night, she’s either wrangling her two beloved German Shepherds, camping somewhere in the Southwest desert, or tearing up a dance floor in Detroit.
How do you stay inspired?
“ I find it so easy to be inspired by living in Detroit and witnessing the crazy drip all walks of life carry here. The rich culture & history of this city lends itself to the unique street style; from the Rustbelt & the Big 3 to Motown Records and the birthplace of techno. From swagged out Carhartt workwear and ready-to-sweat all black club ‘fits to fly vintage 3-piece suits and Dittrich furs, the movers and shakers of Detroit dress to impress for any and every occasion. You can get a blinged out hat at the liquor store and style it with thrifted pieces to pull together a unique look equally fit for a day of grocery shopping or bopping around the DIA.”
Maryam wears the Baserange Lens Sweater, Story mfg. Lush Pants, Clyde Vita Scarf, Dubie Tecno Boots, and Panconesi Double Blow Up Earrings.
When do you feel the most confident?
“I feel most confident when I’m wearing a true-to-me outfit that is a visual extension of my personality, and comfortable to move in. Something bold and understated that holds your eye when you scan a full room without being too loud. I like to have unique adornments added to the mix, such as a beaded necklace I made myself, vibrant pops of eye makeup, or a one-of-one handmade piece. Conversation pieces! When I strike that balance of eye-catching unique style and functionality, that’s when I feel my best. Also anytime I wear a deep brown hue with light green accessories. Something about that combo just hits with my skin and hair tone!”
Here Maryam is wearing an iconic suit by Henrik Vibskov (Blazer + Pants), the Becks Tank, XT-Whisper Void Saloman Sneakers,Clyde Gauntlet Gloves, Elisa Johnson Sham Shades, and Jewelry by Justine Clenquet (Jessie Earrings + Holly Necklace).
Do you think style & flavor are synonymous? How do you describe your personal style?
”I agree that style and flavor are synonymous! Both fashion & culinary have “it-girl” trends, like camo hats and Dubai chocolate, but that’s not everyone’s style or flavor. I think both realms shine best when you can figure out how to speak or tell a story through your style or your food. My cooking style is based heavily around storytelling and fostering connection, and my fashion sense is always built on representing my playful personality rather than feeding into what’s hot and “in” right now. I would describe my personal style as “cute-tilitarian”; I like to put the fun in functional!”
For this look Maryam rocks the gorgeous Sue Kaftan by Julia Heuer, the Arco Clogs by Dubie, and the Clyde Short Racing Gloves + Volo Hat.
Photographer: Rose Catherine Hohl
Model: Maryam Kahn
Makeup Artist: @faceofesther_ at Studio Vera
Creative Director/Stylist: @hey_angela
Location: @honeybeemkt