Charles Harbison designer Guest Editor Picks — Photography by SAHEJ SINGH

Charles Harbison Shares His Style Secrets

This summer, take cues from this Los Angeles-based designer and embrace a monochromatic colour scheme.

Date June 23, 2025

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Looking for a way to shake up your usual style? Allow designer Charles Harbison to inspire your next high-fashion refresh.

With a background in architecture and a flair for blending creativity and modern sophistication, it’s no surprise that the Los Angeles-based designer has cemented himself as one of fashion’s most respected tastemakers. With years of experience designing for some of the industry’s biggest brands, Harbison quickly caught the eye of several modern style icons—including Beyoncé, Michelle Pfeiffer and Ava DuVernay—who gravitated towards his contemporary and refined sensibilities.

Charles Harbison Guest Editor Picks — Photography by PAVIELLE GARCIA

After stepping away from the fashion world in 2016, the designer reemerged in 2022 with his first full collection and a new, wellness-centred mindset. Today, Harbison’s work offers a masterclass in modern minimalism, filled with monochromatic palettes that serve as the canvases for bold and unapologetic self-expression.

The designer shared his fashion, beauty and lifestyle favourites with FASHION. Keep reading for a glimpse into his summer essentials.

Charles Harbison's Picks

Harbison Gemini Bag

“Whether I’m heading to the beach, a daytime event or a fancy dinner, the Gemini Bag is my go-to. All my essentials fit perfectly, and the crossbody chain is super sexy.”

"Miami" by Joan Didion

“During the heat of the summer I tend to reread one of my favourite Didion books. It’s as if I can feel the warmth of Miami and Cuba while I’m reading it.”

Ahlem Eyewear Marcadet Sunglasses

“I’m a huge fan of this brand, and these ‘Marcadets’ will be the newest addition to my sunglasses collection—in black, of course.”

Birkenstock Boston Super Grip

“I’m a creature of habit, and a new pair of Boston clogs is always on my seasonal shopping list. These black leather ones are next in line.”

Chanel Boy de Chanel Foundation

“Even though it’s technically a foundation, I use my Boy de Chanel Foundation to spot-correct on my face. The N°70 shade is my key to looking sun-kissed all summer long.”

Ruinart Champagne

“This is what I bring to every party and beach day and what I serve for a stay-at-home date night. To me, Ruinart tastes like summer.”

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Crème UV SPF 30

“Because of this moisturizer, I’ve become a La Roche- Posay devotee! I have oily to combination skin, and nothing works better for me than this product.”

Calvin Klein Cotton Stretch 3-Pack Tank Top

“Oversized trousers are my standard look for any day, but this summer I’m pairing them with easy tank tops. I adore these Calvin Klein ones.”

Byredo Pulp Eau de Parfum

“Citrus is always my favourite scent—but especially in the warmer weather. This fragrance is crisp and fruity and layers well with my other scents of choice.”

Poltronova x Gae Aulenti Armchair

“Imagine enjoying a sunset glass of Champagne or an early-morning coffee in this chic chair. My answer is ‘Yes!’”

Text by Stephanie Davoli

This article first appeared in FASHION’s Summer 2025 issue. Find out more here.

Annika Lautens

Annika Lautens is the fashion news and features director of FASHION Magazine. With a resumé that would rival Kirk from "Gilmore Girls", she’s had a wide variety of jobs within the publishing industry, but her favourite topics to explore are fashion sociology and psychology. Annika currently lives in Toronto, and when she’s not interviewing celebrities, you can find her travelling.

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