Watch CBS News

NYC Style: French Songstress Floanne Ankah

by Kimberly Rae Miller

Floanne Ankah

Borough/Neighborhood: Little Italy/Nolita
Profession: Actor/Singer/Filmmaker

Floanne Ankah moved to New York City from France in 2000.  Now that she's here, she spends her time working as an actress, singer, and voice-over actress.  Her specialty: 1960s French classics. As a producer, Floanne focuses her efforts on experimental films, and documentaries, of which she has two currently in production.  Currently, Floanne is focusing her time on writing new songs, in English - her goal is to connect with her audience, and inspire you to go within to be the best you can be.

How would you define your personal style?

Casual and/or sophisticated, with a twist.

Favorite item in you closet?

The trench coat that I got at the last Cannes Film Festival has my heart!

Are there any trends that you wish would just go away already?  Styles you wish would come back?

In New York, everyone is so different, you have this sense of privacy anywhere you go... and I am guilty: I don't pay attention to trends in fashion. I like the [style of the] 60s.  Beatnik. Overall I like to spice it up, and when everyone is unique, not following a given trend.

Are there any differences in style between your on-stage persona and your everyday life?

Sure. I am so much more personal, and vulnerable on stage when I sing. When I am on set as an actor I'm strong and like to mark my territory, but if I'm directing something I prefer uber-peaceful.

Do you notice any inherent differences in womens' style in the US, than in France?

Less is more. Style gives you a chance to shine your personality.  Sometimes it feels here that the style is more important than the actual person, or overwhelms the personality.  That's when style is wrong I think. Style should match you and what you have to say, and should complement the statement that is you.  Again, less is more.

Favorite Five in the Five Boroughs?

The truth is I'm infatuated with my work so I don't have a lot of time to shop, so then I become a compulsive shopper, because otherwise I have nothing to wear... and that kills.  Again I am all about creativity, so I like to get in a store and feel inspired.  Check out the new store on Lafayette and Spring called Tierra, they make you wear  jewelry like never before and give you a flower when you get in.

Irregular Choice makes you feel like you are in a shoe museum... where you can actually buy the stuff (10% off after you join their mailing list).

Hum... why not get to Long Island for flowers? fLo rE sta is one stop away from Manhattan and you will just melt

Origins, where they'll match your powder just right and make you chill for free with mini-facial, if you can resist the temptation of getting more products.

For clothes... it's hard, there is so much.  Off the top of my head, check out The Market on Mulberry Street, where you can find stuff made with love.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.