Rob Zangardi A true fashion icon. As a highly sought-after stylist to the stars, he has dressed some of the most high-profile celebrities – including Jennifer LopezGwen Stefani, RihannaAnd Kerry Washington. Zangardi, known for his mastery of glamor and versatility, effortlessly adapts to each client’s unique style with his incredibly eclectic taste. So naturally, when I heard he was launching his own brand, Otter, I was curious to learn more.
Auteur is an outerwear label on a mission to create the ultimate layer—the that piece Is Organization,No An afterthought. For Zangardi, that means creating the best version of every coat. The idea for this brand stemmed from his own struggle to find outerwear In fact wanted to wear, which “looked like a coat that was comfortable as well as sophisticated,” Zangardi told Who What Wear. “Something you can wear all day, go to dinner, and never feel the need to take it off. The goal was a coat that feels luxurious but comfortable, with the quality of a designer piece at a more comfortable price.”
Bringing their expertise in tailoring, fabric and proportion to the men’s and women’s collections, this line ranges from animal-free fur coats – elegant pieces that resemble vintage treasures from your grandmother’s wardrobe – to utilitarian-inspired leather trench coat, modern puffers, technical bomber jacketAnd Funnel-neck peacoat. Wool baseball caps, inspired by Zangardi’s personal style, are designed to complement every outerwear style.
Although the label has just launched, it has immediately caught the attention of the style set, with celebrities like J.Lo already wearing The Fox jacket while preparing for a movie. Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,
Below, we caught up with Zangardi to learn more about what inspires Otter and how he’s mastered the science of designing sophisticated, well-made, and comfortable outerwear. Then, keep scrolling to shop the collection before it inevitably sells out.
(Image credit: Otter)
You’ve styled some of the most photographed people in the world. How did that experience shape your idea of what an ideal coat should be and look like?
After years of fitting and sewing clothes for every body type, I’ve learned that proportion and construction are everything. A great coat has to conform to the body without restricting. I wanted Otter to bring that same precision to outerwear, where tailoring meets comfort in a way that works for everyone.
The brand emphasizes structure, comfort and quiet confidence. How do you balance those elements in the same piece?
I start with the clothes. The fabric determines how the coat will move and feel. Every detail has a reason. A gathered pleat for the perfect shape, a knife pleat for speed and an adjustable button for flexibility. Even a small construction choice, such as the way a collar sits, can change the way you dress yourself.
(Image credit: Otter)
What role do accessories play in telling an otter story?
When one tries the coat with the matching hat, one understands the idea completely. It completes the silhouette in a way that feels both intentional and effortless. It’s not an accessory – it’s part of the composition.
The brand’s mantra is, “It’s what’s on the outside that counts.” Can you please explain what this means to you?
It’s about intention. The outer layer is what people see first, but it’s also what carries your mood, your energy, your confidence. You can wear a coat and instantly feel calm and safe. This is the power of what is outside.
How has the launch of Otter changed the way you dress?
It reminded me that a coat makes a dress. I can wear the same coat over sweats or over a suit and still feel like it fits perfectly. It matters what’s outside.
(Image credit: Otter)
You have helped many customers express their identity through fashion. How does Otter reflect your image?
Whatever I wear should look good. I love drop shoulders, soft fabrics, naturally draped coats. I’ve always been a coat person; This is the layer that says the most with the least. For me, matching hats became a natural extension of that idea, both stylistically and functionally.
Finally, what do you hope a person feels when they wear their otter coat?
Like they never want to take it off.
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