Karen Robinovitz

Borough/Neighborhood: West Village
Profession: Founder of Purple Lab, Owner of media and management agency The Digital Brand Architects

A media veteran and fashion/beauty insider, Karen Robinovitz is the founder of the beauty brand, Purple Lab. She also consults for the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle companies in search of refreshed identities and audiences, from high-brow to mass markets within the social media space and manages style bloggers.

How would you define your personal style?

It depends on the day – I go from severe all-black with a rocker edge to slouchy relaxed asymmetrical layers to full on glam with feathers and sequins for the afternoon. I never leave the house without five inch heels (or higher – I recently got rid of all 4″ heels – too low).

What kind of process do you have while creating a makeup line?

When creating Purple Lab I wanted to invent a fresh, fun innovative brand all about double-duty beauty. I am inspired by fashion and all things fabulous; Purple Lab offers the science of sexy with lifestyle products that deliver the best skincare benefits. It’s not just beauty; it’s a way of life with products that cover every need, wish and desire of a girl like me…busy, busy, busy with a thirst for chic.

Are there any make-up trends you wish would just go away already?

The super tan, bronzed look.

What are the biggest make-up mistakes you see people make on a regular basis?

I see women wearing too much bronzer and too much make up all around. Also, many women apply blush too low below their cheek bones.

Must haves for every makeup case?

Lip gloss and mascara

Favorite Five in the Five Boroughs?

Kirna Zabete – a mecca of high fashion, including Celine, Balenciaga, Lanvin, Rick Owens, Givenchy, Jason Wu, Alexander Wang, Stella McCartney and more.

NY vintage – an amazing selection of well edited vintage, designer and no name brands and they get a ton of 70s pieces which is my favorite fashion era.

Opening Ceremony – the best spot for a taste of avant garde, unusual accessories and over the top pieces that make your closet pop. Prices go from low to high and they carry things you can’t easily find elsewhere.

Paul Labrecque Salon – I get all of my Biologique skincare here. Live for their products and they have the whole line.

by Kimberly Rae Miller