Independent Spirit: Gallerina Nicola Vassell

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Nicola says she likes to mix and match high and low end. Here she pairs an industrial raincoat with a mini sweater dress and killer heels.

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At a New York Fashion Week party Nicola executes her clothing as art mantra in a sculptured dress. “I really like things that look like art on the body,” she says.

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Wearing one of her treasured vintage finds, Nicola hosts a wine tasting party at her spacious downtown New York City loft.

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Them there eyes. Nicola parties it up at New York Fashion week with client and friend, artist Kehinde Wiley.

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At the debut of designer Sonia Rykiel’s shop at Henri Bendel, Nicola wears a voluminous winter coat and minimal makeup.

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With good friend actress Joy Bryant, Nicola’s deep crimson lip color is glam and cocktail-ready.

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Nicola’s paperboy chic is paired with a vintage denim blazer. The former model admits she’s got a soft spot for masculine clothing. “I tend to prefer more masculine lines,” she says.