My Style: Madison Schill
Portrait: Courtesy of Madison Schill
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
I think the moment you try to dress for other people you lose a piece of what really makes your style vibrant. You can see, just like in life, the kind of radiance that unapologetic uniqueness brings. It doesn’t matter what you're wearing as long as it's truly what you would wear.
Please describe your style in three words.
Classic, carefree and timeless.
Do you believe in role models?
I do, but as long as they don't inhibit you from reaching your fullest potential as an individual. It can be one thing to seek inspiration, or support from a person, and another to use their lives to conceal your own.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Linen, embroidered, dark denim, and vintage cotton.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
The right person can make anything work, but I’m not okay with showing too much skin. It detracts from the beauty of the person.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Paris. Bien sûr!
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
You know, I'd have to sit somewhere comfortably in the middle. I am comfortable dressing on both ends of the spectrum.
Celebrities and style...
Can sometimes be misleading. I often wonder what they would wear without access to designers, stylists, and full teams. To me, seeing that grounded, authentic style is fascinating.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Love what you're wearing, dress for yourself, and choose pieces you’ll be able to wear effortlessly.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Last year, it was the J.Crew Café capri. A myriad of colours, textures, moods... such fun! But always, sunglasses. My mom introduced me to the world of vintage, and I wear a bunch of my dad's old specs from his high school days.
A woman should always look like…
Herself.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My mom for her elegance, and my dad for the edge. They both equally give input and have chosen all of my most memorable pieces.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I'll go out on my balcony and check the weather, and typically, I dress with an air of spontaneity. Whatever I have to do that day, wherever I'm going, it all plays a part.
What is your biggest regret?
No regrets here!
The three essential things a woman should know about style are…
Dress for your life, don't get swept up with too many trends, and always mix high with lower-end pieces.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Open your mind, not your wallet.
We will never see you wearing…
Body-con clothing and sequins.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I have an old friend and idol of mine, Mario Fugnitto, who creates his own pieces for close friends and celebrities. The passion he has for his designs are evident, and I love watching the realm he creates for his clothes.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Thom Browne. Everything about him, from his collections, to my experiences working with him, astounds me. His mind is so unbelievable, and his heart is so kind. Also, I love that classic look on a man.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her eyes. You can tell if a woman is comfortable in her skin/life/clothing just by looking at them.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My Malandrino laser-cut jacket, Chanel purse, and my dad's old wedding ring. All of these have stories attached to them, and remind me of those remarkable moments in life.
The one image that defined your approach to style…
A shoot I did with Harper's Bazaar. It reminded me that I CAN be crazy!
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Thom Browne is EVERYTHING, as well as Christian Siriano, Pink Tartan, and Mikhael Kale. I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with these designers over the years, and love their minds in addition to their garments.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
The undergarments. Like the foundation of a good house!
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Never! I think people assume that good style has to be uncomfortable. That has never been more wrong!
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Fashion stylist Cary Tauben and Joe Mimram. Both are incredible people, and have such interesting worlds surrounding them.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
My mom, who on a bad day told me to “throw on some lipstick and hold your head high”.
