Christina and Julie on McKibbin. Click for more. — Photos by Nicole Wasilewicz.

Before spring began its battering rainfall, I spotted these two transplants having a makeshift picnic down the street from their apartment in the McKibbin Lofts. Alright, so these girls look like your average hipster at first glance — but as I walked by, it was obvious to me that they were European, so I figured I’d stop to chat to figure out how I knew.

Christina from Germany, Tourist (left) & Julie from France, Au Pair (right)

Christina and Julie have a similar thing going on — vintage boots with textured tights, topped off with layers of oversized garments from the waist up, focused deeply on the use of black. Christina’s look, however, manages to be a bit more bold with a striking green canvas duffel, purple Golden Girls worthy windbreaker, and straw colored leather mock cowboys. Julie sticks to her French roots with classic black and white. Both girls find a perfect balance between the I-just-rolled-out-of-bed look and a certain precision that gives away the fact that their passports have been newly stamped.

What brings you to Bushwick?
Christina: Curiosity. I’ve been here for a month. I came as a tourist and just extended my stay. I was lucky because British Airways went on strike so I could push back my ticket for free. I’m into photography, fashion, and drawing, stuff like that, and this is a good place to get inspired. That sounds like a stereotype, but it’s true, so…
Julie: Yeah, curiosity… and beauty. Just living in the moment. I used to live in the city as an au pair and I just decided to get my own place.

You think this neighborhood is beautiful?
J: Yes, definitely — especially this part of Brooklyn. I just think the people are willing to be different, but not in a stereotypical kind of way.
C: Everyone seems to find the beauty in themselves here. And the buildings are cool.

How would you guys describe your style?
J: Just following my eye, I guess. I try to keep a little bit of the French style, because I’m proud of who I am and where I’m from, and mix that with New York style. French style is a little more conservative — we’ve seen trench coats for ages now, and stripes. But if you mix it with New York craziness, I think it looks nice.

How about you, Christina, where’d you get your jacket?
C: The jacket is Beacon’s Closet. Most of the things I wear are from the thrift shop. It just has to be fun. I decide everyday who I get to be that day.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought when it comes to clothes?
C: A Stella McCartney raincoat that I don’t have here with me, unfortunately.
J: It would have to be American Apparel leggings that I bought for $42, that’s just crazy. I really like cheap stuff because my tastes change all the time so I don’t want to spend too much money on that stuff, but I wear these leggings a lot even though they were expensive. I guess it’s worth it, but still pretty crazy for leggings.

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