My Style: Samantha Wills
Photo: Courtesy of Samantha Wills
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
I don't think it's one item, it's about dressing to your body shape. I used to read about this and think it was the most boring thing to say, but it is really true. Once you know what flatters you, you have a whole new approach to clothing and style. I suggest finding a celebrity or blogger that has a similar body type to you and pay attention to pulling the best elements of their style into your dream wardrobe.
Please describe your style in three words.
Bohemian, luxe, chic.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Leaving the house in something you are uncomfortable in, because not only will you be physically uncomfortable all day, you will also be really conscious of it and no one has time for that!
Do you believe in role models?
I don’t believe in emulating one person as a role model, but I like taking elements that you admire from different people, applying them to your journey and putting your own signature on it.
What are your favourite fabrics?
I love fabrics with detailing. I am wearing a lot of high-waisted skirts with sequins or embroideries and I like mixing something as beautifully detailed as them with a t-shirt… mixing the juxtaposition of masculine meets feminine.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Two overly-detailed pieces should never come together.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Paris, they are just effortlessly chic.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Bold.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
I never wear one label from head to toe. I must feel confident, if I am second-guessing an outfit, I don’t leave the house in it as I will be thinking about it all day. I mix high street items with designer clothing. I really like this concept as I think it allows you to develop a really unique style.
Celebrities and style...
Don’t always go together!
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Yves Saint Laurent clutches, vintage or current. I just think they epitomise 1970’s glamour and I would mix them with jeans and a t-shirt or a ball gown.
A woman should always look like...
An extension of her personality. The way you dress is how you tell the world who you are without words.
Who taught you what you know about style?
I think I worked it out myself… but it wasn’t ‘til my late 20’s. I really found my own style when I was about 28, I remember feeling a little lost and unsure, but now I know very well and am confident in it.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
A few months ago, I did a wardrobe clean-out. I truly didn’t realise how big of an impact it would have on my day-to-day life. I hung / folded everything in categories and it takes so much stress out of my morning routine… the epitome of a place for everything and everything has a place. And to my own surprise I have kept it organised even three months on.
What is your biggest regret?
Wearing a fake purple hibiscus flower in my hair to a school formal — not to mention the purple organza dress, purple eyeshadow and purple nails… :( #1999
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
It’s a statement to the world and the first impression you make. Identify investment pieces, these will allow you easy go-tos forever. Don’t try to be someone else, find your own style and embrace it.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I shop a lot online. If shopping A LOT is a ritual, then yes!
We will never see you wearing...
Flat platform sneakers/sandals. I know they are very in fashion at the moment, but to me they just look orthopaedic.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
‘By Johnny’ is an Australian label that I LOVE. Jon just gets women’s bodies and knows what flatters them. He is truly amazing.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Kate Moss — I have never seen her in real life, but I have so much admiration for her style. She is incredible.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Kind eyes. Warm smile.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My Chanel purse, it was my first big designer purchase a few years ago; I bought it in Paris and treat it with the care of a newborn child! I also collect Yves Saint Laurent clutches, so they take pride of place as well.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Lauren Bacall, in a white Grecian-style dress in the late 60’s/early 70’s. I thought it was equal parts bohemian, equal parts luxury. Perfection.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
I love what Stella McCartney has created — to be honest, I do not wear much of the label, but as a brand, I think the message is clear and in this day, age and market, I have huge admiration for brands that are brands and stand alone in their story and message. Everything about the Stella McCartney brand is communicated beautifully.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Yes and no. Be comfortable, but not at the detriment of not caring.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Erika Heynatz, an Australian television and stage personality, and Jennifer Grace, an American blogger.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Do the best you can, then when you know better, do better.
