My Style: Erika Serio
Portrait: Nikola Borissov for Fashion We Like
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
The abuse of black and synthetics. The excessive ostentation of wealth.
Please describe your style in three words.
Discipline meets fun.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Overdressing.
Do you believe in role models?
Not particularly. I believe in inspiration: music, people, and images above all.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Poplin, piqué, and linen are my comfort zones.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Milan. Full stop.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Enhance shoulders: one must respect the shape of the body. Stay down to earth. Smile.
Celebrities and style…
A combination that only works for commercial brands: the best celebrities today are customers.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Being conservative is a bold statement in itself.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Shirts, in any shape, fabric, and collar.
A woman should always look like…
It only took her five minutes to assemble her outfit and get dressed.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Books. And the street.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
Depending on my mood, weather, and agenda. In this precise order.
What is your biggest regret?
No regrets. Style is all about ease and letting go.
The three essential things a woman should know about style are…
Know your body. Be aware of style codes, but be able to break them. Do not dress to impress.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I do online T-shirt shopping when it pours. Compulsive sock shopping. Something new and something local on every trip, no matter where: I can shop anywhere, from local shops up to flea markets.
We will never see you wearing…
Wedges.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
NEEMIC: neat, sustainable, gentle. Chinese, from Beijing. Kamila Gawronska Kasperska: architectural, organic, ultramodern. She is Polish.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Wei Koh, founder of style bible The Rake. He is an expert in mixing Oriental and Western tailored pieces. Such a style icon!
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her hair and face.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My edelweiss earrings, my collection of socks.
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
Missoni, main line.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is…
Her shirt. With a well-ironed shirt you already have half the outfit.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all: the more relaxed you feel, the better you look.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Flore Pilzer. An exquisitely French colleague and friend.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Be nice.
