My Style: Jessica de Ruiter
Photo: Courtesy of Jessica de Ruiter
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Less is more. Dress beyond the urgency of fashion. Embrace a ‘uniform’ that works for each season.
Please describe your style in three words.
Classic, considered, uncomplicated.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Trying too hard.
Do you believe in role models?
Of course! We all need some inspiration and guidance now and then.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Cotton, linen, wool, cashmere… I like natural fabrics.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
No.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Paris.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Conservative. I prefer a minimal, understated style. Bold, 'over the top' fashion does nothing for me.
Celebrities and style...
Have become a very powerful currency within our industry.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Clutches. I tend not to carry very much, just the essentials… phone, keys, wallet, lipstick.
A woman should always look like...
Herself.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My mother, the chicest woman I know.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
It depends on my mood, the weather and my schedule. I never plan an outfit the day before because it always ends up changing the next morning.
What is your biggest regret?
My compulsive closet editing has led to a few regretful giveaways…
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Always sleep on it before making a purchase.
We will never see you wearing...
Fur. And sky high heels.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Co, a super-chic collection of beautiful quality pieces based out of Los Angeles.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Emmanuelle Alt.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her skin, hair and teeth. And her grace.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Vintage Levi's and a Céline black coat.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Vogue Paris, 2002/2003.
Which designer/fashion house never fails to impress you?
Céline, Isabel Marant, The Row, Chloé, Lanvin, Dries van Noten. And Stella McCartney for her commitment to animal rights.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
A winter coat and shoes.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Yes. If you don’t feel good you definitely won’t look good.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Lisa Love.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
“Real elegance is in the mind; if you’ve got that the rest comes from it.” — Diana Vreeland
