My Style: Liza Urla
Portrait: Julia Flit — Courtesy of Liza Urla
Do you believe in role models?
Absolutely. I once met a stunning old woman in Paris named Bettina Graziani, who was a renowned and much sought after supermodel in the 40's and 50's. She was one of the most photographed women in mid-20th century France; she worked for Vogue and many well-known designers, Chanel, Givenchy and Dior amongst others.
Please describe your style in three words.
Eclectic, sophisticated, and fun.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Forgetting to put jewellery on.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Silk and cashmere.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Jewellery parures: matching your earrings with your necklace, bracelets and rings.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Milan and Shanghai.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Bold.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
It's all about comfort and shapes.
Celebrities and style...
Often don't mix.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Statement earrings.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Fiona Swarovski.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I start with my jewellery, and dress around it. It depends on how many and what type of meetings I have, or if I have a street style shoot, or if I am attending some fancy event. I drive around London, so I usually have a pair of heels hidden in my car.
What is your biggest regret?
Not learning Mandarin in school when I was living in the far east of Russia.
The three essential things a woman should know about style are…
Style is personal. It is not defined by trends. Style and comfort complement each other.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I am a spontaneous shopper, both for clothes and jewellery. I am passionate about finding things without planning to do so!
We will never see you wearing...
A bra.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
The latest pieces I have added to my wardrobe are a Roksanda Ilincic silk skirt, an Emilia Wickstead lace dress and Cris Barros statement earrings.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
My photographer’s (Julia Flit) little daughter.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her jewellery.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My mom’s red wedding dress.
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
Osklen, a quintessentially Brazilian brand. I love their accessories and silks.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
No, but you have to know how to pick the right pieces!
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Write a poem to grow your soul.
