My Style: Amy Focazio
Portrait: Courtesy of Amy Focazio
The three essential things a woman should know about style are…
Don't follow every trend; some are ridiculous. Mix it up and try something new—get out of your comfort zone. Great makeup and hair complete your look.
Please describe your style in three words.
Rocker yet refined, bohemian, and subtly sexy.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Wearing clothes that do not fit properly. Too small, too tight and/or inappropriate for one's age.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes, especially for today's generation of young adults.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Lizard skin, luxe knits, leather and denim.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
I'm not a big fan of colour block denim.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Paris, and of course Italy.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I'm bold but not with colour. My look is edgy and my accessories definitely make a statement.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
At MAC I have to wear black every day with the exception of Fridays and Memorial Day through to Labour Day. Let's just say there is an explosion of colour in the office during those times. I express myself with jewellery and shoes.
Celebrities and style...
I love it when celebrities take risks at red carpet events. I feel that many of them just tend to wear the current fashion, makeup and hair trends.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
How about two? Stilettos and vintage silver bangles.
A woman should always look like…
A better version of herself.
Who taught you what you know about style?
I've been inspired by Carine Roitfeld. She is sexy, chic and oozes confidence. Also, one of my close friends, Céline Kaplan. She is not afraid to experiment and mix things up with colours, shapes or fabrics.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I'm a mood dresser so it totally depends on how I'm feeling when I wake up. However, I always wear Eres lingerie. It's sexy and the fit is exceptional.
What is your biggest regret?
Not buying a turquoise Lanvin coat at a vintage boutique. It haunts me till this day.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I hit flea markets, as you can always find amazing vintage pieces. Also, every time I'm in Paris for Fashion Week I visit the Gianvito Rossi boutique and buy a great pair (or two) of stilettos.
We will never see you wearing...
Uggs.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Joseph Altuzarra, Prabal Gurung, Mary Katrantzou, Rosie Assoulin, Holly Fulton, and Iris Van Herpen.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Giovanna Battaglia, Kate Moss, and Carine Roitfeld.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her makeup, shoes, and handbag.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
A Chartreuse Chanel coat, a pair of silver studded black Miu Miu stilettos, a pair of Sergio Rossi black snakeskin knee-high stiletto boots, and a purple Marni coat.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
I can't narrow it down to one. I draw inspiration from people of all walks of life.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Giambattista Valli, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Haider Ackermann, Proenza Schouler, and Zac Posen.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is…
Shoes, and of course makeup which is an extension of style. Mascara is essential. It makes eyes pop and a subtle highlighter is always great because it makes your skin glisten.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
You don't have to sacrifice comfort for fashion. Nearly every designer sent sport luxe sneakers or flats down the runway this season.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Dress for yourself, not to impress others.
