Big 'Cap Fashion with Tara Kiwi

Tara Kiwi founder Tara Hammond Leu (left) and Jennifer Abel at Santa Anita Park. (Photos by Ciara Austin)
Looking for something stylish, but casual to wear for this weekend's Santa Anita Handicap at Santa Anita Park? Tara Kiwi is a fresh new line of equestrian-inspired, organic T-shirts for men and women created by Tara Hammond Leu, a horse enthusiast living in Los Angeles.
Ciara Austin: Could you share how you got into fashion and design?

Tara Hammond Leu

Tara Kiwi: Fashion and design were always passion of mine but it wasn’t until I was studying at the University of Delaware that I really started to think more seriously about pursuing a career in fashion. With my aunt’s advice, it was clear that there were only two options, Parsons or [the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising]. FIDM, located in Los Angeles, was the clear choice with its proximity to the mountains and ocean. I received my degree in Apparel Manufacturing and Management. My first job was as a production coordinator for an international manufacturing company. I was then recruited by Body Glove to be their technical designer. All the while I continued my personal pursuits towards design and starting my own company. I created a sewing blog called “Tarakiwi Cottage Designs”. The blog helped me hone in on my true fashion aesthetic, a blend of my equestrian and preppy east coast roots combined with that effortless and laid-back west coast style. Then one day I walked away from Body Glove and started Tara Kiwi.
CA: What goes into your creative process?
TK: Creativity is a part of my life; I have always appreciated colors, patterns and textures. I find countless inspiration in my everyday life through nature, people, trends, events and even music! I typically keep a small notebook on me and write down all my ideas. When it comes time to create a new collection or style I reference this file and start sketching.
CA: How would you describe your style?
TK: Sophisticated, effortless, and fun!
CA: What's your favorite part about dressing for an equestrian event?
TK: You don’t have to follow rules - women wear their diamonds and muck boots. What can be better than that?  
JENNIFER WITH THE SANTA ANITA JOCKEYS

CA: What is your perspective of the horse racing experience with having an equestrian background?
TK: While my background has primarily been competing as an eventer, I was blessed to own two off-the-track racehorses. Racing gave me access to well-bred, athletic horses at an affordable price so I could pursue my equestrian goals. The racing industry to me is a valuable asset to American Thoroughbred breeding, and I’m looking forward to learning more about it through America’s Best Racing as well as visiting our local racetrack, Santa Anita Park.    
TARA AND JENNIFER ADMIRE A SANTA ANITA MURAL

CA: What's a typical day like for you and your business?
TK: Well, I have two dedicated days to myself during the week but I’m a small business owner, so I work everyday regardless! I generally check my emails and post on social media in the morning before doing a variety of tasks. I could be sketching, packing an order, making advertisements, dropping T-shirts off at the screeners or doing a photo shoot at Santa Anita Park with Ciara, one of America’s Best Racing’s Ambassadors.
TARA TRIES TO SPEND SOME TIME BY HERSELF TO COME UP WITH DESIGNS

CA: What is your ultimate career goal for Tara Kiwi?
TK: I would love the Tara Kiwi collection to grow beyond T-shirts to a full line, including blouses, shift dresses and maxi skirts.   
Be sure to visit Tara Kiwi's online shop at www.TaraKiwi.com to see more of her horse-inspired clothing line for both men and women!
TARA AND JENNIFER ENJOY THEIR TIME AT SANTA ANITA