As a part of our maudern people series, we asked New York-based Susan Korn for insights on modern intimacy. She is the founder of her eponymous, colorful line Susan Alexandra and has collaborated with brands like Warby Parker, Urban Outfitters, and Studs.
With social distancing & quarantine, how has intimacy and human contact changed?
I'm having deeper and better conversations than I have in years. I feel more present and engaged with the people I'm talking to. I feel the time before quarantine was so unfair. We weren't being fair to ourselves or to the many people we were in contact with because we were so distracted and overloaded. And then there's online dating which I feel destroyed intimacy. People became commodities and their value diminished with every swipe left. I'm guilty of it too. I hope we can emerge and grasp the fragility and beauty of other people. I spiritually believe we are all connected and a reflection of each other-this harrowing experience is something we all have in common. Proof of this connection.
I think I'm lucky to have started my company with an emphasis on authenticity. I don't know how to not be true to myself. The designs I make are a touch selfish even! At first, I was stunned that other people found resonance with my work (it's so personal!) but over time I've come to the astounding and beautiful revelation that authenticity is something you feel in your bones. If your output comes from a genuine place, it is felt by others. I think that's my magic. The connection and intimacy I have with myself is energetically felt and seen by others.
Because I'm not physically with anyone, I am going to make a conscious effort to have more intimate conversations with the people in my life. To go to a deeper level (that's where the good stuff happens!)
