My Style: Melissa Coker
Photo: Courtesy of Wren
Please describe your style in three words.
Feminine, classic, winsome.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Being too trendy, not dressing for oneself.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes!
What are your favourite fabrics?
I love antique sequins and tarnished shine.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Not really. I believe in “to each his own.”
Which city has the best-dressed women?
New York.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I’d like to be bold, but I am probably more on the conservative side.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
My only rule would be to wear what works for you and follow your individual style.
Celebrities and style...
Can be good, can be bad.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
I have a rainbow of cardigans living in my closet. I love topping off every outfit with a bit more colour.
A woman should always look like...
She doesn’t try too hard. Effortless.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My grandmother.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
Depends on my mood.
Your biggest regret is...
Getting rid of some Chanel jewellery a few years ago. I was bored of it and didn’t have the foresight to realise I wouldn’t always feel that way.
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
Don’t be afraid of colour. Red lipstick makes everyone look good in photos, and flats are underrated.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Shopping from friends who are designers — best way to shop.
We will never see you wearing...
Pants.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I love Erdem. Pretty prints, so feminine.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Sofia Coppola.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Shoes.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Jewellery from my grandmother.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Pictures of Kate Moss in the ‘90s.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Charles Anastase.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
One’s coat. It’s what is seen most.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all. I find effortlessness inherently chic, and certainly comfort can find its way in there somewhere.
Who would you like to see next in My Style?
I’d love to see Leith Clark of Lula.
The best word of advice you have ever heard?
Better great tomorrow than good today.
