My Style: Marcela Gutiérrez
Photo: Cholo de la Vega — Courtesy of Marcela Gutiérrez
Are there any combinations that you object to?
Not really — I think I have tapped into all sorts of combinations through out my life. I believe it is a process we all must go through to develop what becomes your personal style. A clash can sometimes turn out to be surprisingly chic.
Please describe your style in three words.
Classic, bold, and sometimes a bit punk.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not being true to your taste and style.
Do you believe in role models?
Absolutely; I have several!
What are your favourite fabrics?
I love natural fibres such as linen, cotton, silk, and wool.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Without a doubt, Paris.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I genuinely think I am a combination of both.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
I don’t have rules but I have a tendency to mix and match something; perhaps timeless with a vintage find and a touch of high street.
Celebrities and style...
Don’t necessarily go hand-in-hand, unless you are Diane Kruger.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
My hat — I almost feel bald without it! And my military asymmetrical jacket from the French army.
A woman should always look like...
A woman.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My mother.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I suppose it revolves around my mood. It also has to do with what I will do. If I have to use paints, I might use my old t-shirts and jeans. Otherwise I really get into the outfit and I will change a million times before I go out. I always make sure to wear a super heel, even if I am indoors drawing all day.
Your biggest regret is...
I can’t really think of it!
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
Dress to feel comfortable in your own skin. A timeless piece is an investment but it will last forever. You can always update your wardrobe with just few accessories of the season.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
My rule when I shop is to only buy if I am 100 per cent, head over heels in love with the object of my desire.
We will never see you wearing...
Gym clothes for any reason other than working out.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Out of the new designers, I love Ricardo Tisci at Givenchy, Proenza Schouler and Alexander Wang. They all have a great understanding and sensibility of what women want. They are quite avant-garde, modern, feminine and always wearable, never costume-like.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
My friend Serafina.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
I suppose it’s her whole ensemble. I don’t tend to focus on a single item.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
I have a few treasured jackets from John Galliano and also an empire cut pleated dress from McQueen.
The one image that has defined your approach to style...
It would be a lie to say I have a single image that defined my approach to style. For me, it has been a collection of several images acquired throughout the years while traveling and living in different cities. I feel as if I have captured something from each place and experience.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
I can’t choose between Prada and Balenciaga.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
Her shoes.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all. I happen to have the most comfortable stilettos ever!
Who would you like to see next in My style?
Shala Monroque.
The best word of advice you have ever heard?
Dress your age.
