My Style: Mariella Tandy
Photo: Courtesy of Mariella Tandy
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
Style is all about confidence, what suits your best friend may not suit you. Try to find your own look and not copy trends. You can be as stylish in jeans and trainers as you are in a couture piece.
Please describe your style in three words.
Vintage inspired simplicity.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Following trends rather than what suits one.
Do you believe in role models?
I think that we have all of the things we need in us to become our own role models. It can be good to look to people for guidance but not to become obsessed with them, as everyone has their flaws.
What are your favourite fabrics?
I love wool crêpe for the way it falls. Cashmere to snuggle up to in the winter, and anything embroidered.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
None, people can find their own way and style. Don’t be judgmental of others.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Every city I visit I get inspiration from. I don’t think one can categorise by city. There are so many beautiful and well-dressed women across the globe.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
That depends on my mood. Usually a mixture of both.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
There are none. I have learnt throughout time what suits me and I still make mistakes.
Celebrities and style...
Shouldn’t usually be combined in the same sentence.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Jackets, denim, and small Hermès silk tie scarves for my unruly hair.
A woman should always look like...
She hasn’t tried too hard.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Magazines, vintage photographs of my family, and constant inspiration from my surroundings.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I look at the weather and go from there, if rain is forecast then the default is trousers and boots.
What is your biggest style regret?
Spotting a vintage Alaia piece in a market and not buying it.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
None, I do most shopping online.
We will never see you wearing...
Platform heels. I am nearly 6ft so don’t need another five inches.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I adore everything that Alessandra Rich and Emilia Wickstead do, timeless ultra-feminine elegance. I love Thu Thu for fun bright pieces.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Carmen Dell'Orefice.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Hair, confidence, and her general aura.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
So many! Lots have stories attached to them. Since I was eighteen I have always bought one piece that I adore rather than lots of things I would end up throwing away, and as I result I have items that have been with me for years and I will never throw them away.
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
Hermès.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
Shoes, one MUST be able to walk in them. I hate seeing women who are obviously in pain!
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all, they can be complimentary. Nothing is less stylish than a women who isn’t comfortable in her own skin or what she is wearing.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Erin Hazelton and Jessica Walsh.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
You can never tell from what direction a helping hand will be coming, so you must let your heart and mind be open to all possibilities.
