My Style: Leila Wolford
Photo: Ashley Barrett — Courtesy of Leila Wolford
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I’m obsessed with colour, but I only wear one or two pops with each outfit. Also, when I find a piece of clothing I like I wear it constantly. I usually have five outfits in rotation every season. Wear what works!
Please describe your style in three words.
Urban, girly, and comfortable.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Dressing for someone else… you will be 100 per cent uncomfortable the entire day/night if you don’t dress for YOURSELF!
Do you believe in role models?
Yes, I believe there are people whose qualities are similar to yours and who inspire you to fully realise those qualities just as they have. It’s all about continuing to grow your confidence and knowledge, just like the people you look up to most likely do.
What are your favourite fabrics?
For work: cotton, linen, anything light and breathable since I am constantly moving. I love silk on a day off.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
It irks me when women show too much skin; I’m trying to get across to everyone that if you show your arms and cleavage, cover your legs, and vice versa that it’s much sexier than baring all.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
There are incredibly dressed women all over the world; there cannot be one answer because style and trends vary from city to city. But I do love the style of NYC ladies — who doesn’t?
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
No rules, I just make sure the proportions are even when trying on new pieces of clothing. There are certain silhouettes and styles that work for every woman’s body type; find out what yours are and stick with them.
Celebrities and style...
Are two things I am 110 per cent obsessed with!
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
I’m obsessed with finding bras in all sorts of colours and styles… it’s my weakness!
A woman should always look like...
She feels comfortable and confident in her appearance.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Many stylists in my past, but mostly Keith T. Pollick who taught me everything technical I know today. Patricia Field taught me how to make every outfit special. My sister also has a bold taste for fashion and inspires me to push myself with accessorising!
How do you select your clothing every morning?
Based on the day ahead; whether I’m working or going to the beach, it all depends on what I’m doing and how long I will be on my feet.
What is your biggest regret?
The only time I have felt regretful (which I try not to do, because every failure is a lesson, right?) is when I know I could’ve pushed harder in order to do my ultimate best. It’s rare, but I’ve felt it before… some days you are just off, but you can’t be too hard on yourself.
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
Comfort is my number one goal. I love a good bargain and can find anything at a discounted price. And I love shoes but hate to wear them.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I just make sure to stay focused on the job at hand and to not wander into the shoe section if I don’t need anything for a job. I can def buy for me when shopping for a job — it’s a bad habit!
We will never see you wearing...
Anything that looks like a tent; makes me instantly look fifty pounds heavier.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
To be honest, a lot of high schoolers in my neighbourhood (Upper West Side) blow my mind on a daily basis… they are definitely the future of fashion; the combinations of pieces and accessories are innovative and fresh.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her hair, eyes, and posture.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Aside from my great grandmother’s stole, I would have to say that my everyday pieces are my most treasured! Without them I would be forced to wear a gown everyday — not comfy at all!
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
The waist of her pants; make sure it fits properly without being too tight or loose. I see a lot of muffin tops and saggy bottoms because of poorly fitted pants.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
NEVER. Style is feeling confident and comfortable in your outfit and own skin. It’s an internal attitude and has nothing to do with how the external looks.
