My Style: Sophie Gittins
Photo: Arron Dunworth — Courtesy of Sophie Gittins
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
It doesn’t need to be expensive to be chic. Trends don’t necessarily equate to good taste. The most stylish people don’t scream for attention.
Please describe your style in three words.
Classic, feminine, eclectic.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not considering suitability or the weather. If you don’t dress appropriately you’ll feel self-conscious for the rest of the day — or just cold.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Silk, velvet, cashmere, flannel, brocade, suede, and calf hair.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
No, each to their own (within the boundaries of taste).
Which city has the best-dressed women?
I most admire the style of the women in Milano.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
That’s entirely dependent on my mood and surroundings.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
I like to make sure the accessories are the focus of any outfit.
Celebrities and style...
Will always be close allies.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Shoes and (Edition de Luxe) scarves — I can’t choose between them.
A woman should always look like...
She is comfortable in her skin.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My mother, she has the best taste of any woman I’ve met.
Do you believe in role models?
I absolutely believe in (positive) role models — their importance shouldn’t be underestimated in every aspect of life.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
By making a mess. I pull every piece of clothing I own off the rail before going back to the first thing I picked out.
What is your biggest regret?
Not yet having had a chance to travel. I desperately want to visit Japan.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I only really get a chance to go out shopping if I have an event etc. However twice a year I visit Liberty of London and spend the whole day there. It’s my favourite store.
We will never see you wearing...
Shorts. I know what suits me and shorts are not it.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Marina Qureshi is definitely one to watch — she worked under Alexander McQueen and is unashamedly opulent in the most beautiful way. Every piece of her AW12 collection is stunning.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Carmen Haid of Atelier Mayer. She always looks flawless.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her smile and her accessories.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Those given to me by my fiancé and family (and my vintage Chanel bags).
The one image that defined your approach to style...
An image by Louise Dahl-Wolfe, lashings of black eyeliner and leopard print, strong yet feminine.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Alaïa. Always amazing cuts, textures, and details.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
Her underwear.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all. Some of the most covetable items are stylish and comfortable.
Who would you like to see next in My Style?
Marina Qureshi.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.
