My Style: Irina Lakicevic
Portrait: Courtesy of Irina Lakicevic // Additional photos: Adam Katz Sinding — Le 21ème
The three essential things a woman should know about style are…
To wear what suits her. Dare to step out of your comfort zone. Everything starts with your personality and by having confidence.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not knowing your body type and what suits you.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes, absolutely. Everyone needs someone to look up to and take cues from - and from time to time idolise. But I also firmly believe in finding your own way.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Wool, cotton, and silk. I am the biggest fan of natural materials.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
No, there's not a specific style combination in general. But I do hate those coloured tights, especially when the girl wearing them is over 18. In my perfect world, people would rethink about this item. However, please note: individualism is as important as anything else on this planet, so I am not trying to impose any restrictions.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Oh, that's easy. New York. They always look polished, even when wearing a pair of jeans. And there is always this strong, individual vibe that you can see even amongst the youngest of girls. I always feel inspired observing them.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Neither; I don't like to convey to postulated boundaries or to any limits posted by society.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
I don't want to look back in two year's time and think “What was I wearing?”.
Celebrities and style...
Some celebrities have it, others put their faith in their stylist. Without doubt, the Olsen twins are on top of the stylish celebrities list.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Striped shirts. I have dozens of them.
A woman should always look like…
She is confident. That is the only thing that ultimately changes your appearance.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Reading magazines and my instinct, I guess. My approach to most things in this world is very self-intuitive.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I am always really late (always!), so everything in my wardrobe is set to match, whatever I grab. Very handy, I must confess.
What is your biggest regret?
Not buying those Céline boots from SS14 before they were sold out. The second thing is not starting my website, Portable Package, earlier.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I am probably the worst customer. It can be up to two or three weeks from me liking and trying on the garment to actually committing to it. The main reason is that I don't like the insensible use of money. Everything has its place and there is a reason why it is bought in the first place. I have done so, so many mistakes because of impulse shopping that at one point something had to change. I am very happy about it now.
We will never see you wearing…
Coloured tights or a statement necklace. I am really not into girly stuff.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I follow many designers and for different reasons. I admire those who walk the thin line between using innovation in technology and fabrics, and producing wearable garments, like Proenza Schouler, Louis Vuitton or Sacai for example. On the other hand, I love brands that know how to make women feel beautiful, and Italians are really good at that, like Gucci for example. Last but not least, I adore the Japanese for their hidden nobility in the way they dress women, such as Yohji Yamamoto.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Oh, God. I am not sure, but I adore Carine Roitfeld and Taylor Tomasi Hill.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
The way she is dressed, and her teeth. Both are business hazards I guess.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
I can't decide, there are so many pieces. Maybe my Joseph Altuzarra mules from last season?
The one image that defined your approach to style...
None in particular, but I do have a tendency to go for photos of women in more masculine clothing, or even menswear.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Nicolas Ghesquière; he has a talent that can't be compared to anyone else's.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is…
Her trousers. Nothing beats a pair of well-tailored trousers.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Those who really have an innate sense of style will look good in anything. Although we might have to reconsider the use of sweatpants, if we want to be honest.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Pernille Tæisbakk.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Those who succeed are the ones that are working hard as hell, also when nobody's watching.
