I know what you’re thinking—a fashion editor who doesn’t shop? Isn’t that counterintuitive? I liken it to my friend who is a baker and doesn’t eat much cake. It’s not that you don’t enjoy it—the opposite, in fact. The difference is that you don’t indulge in it for the sake of it.
For the last ten years or so, fashion has been my livelihood and my greatest passion. I preview collections before they’re released, analyse the catwalks to pick out the need-to-know trends and scour new-in sections daily, all to bring you the very best that fashion has to offer. So, when it comes to shopping for myself, it’s something I’ve become very particular about. For one thing, I have to be in the right mood for it; shopping is a big part of my job, which makes doing it in my own time a chore. I also have to be in the mindset where I’m willing to part with some cash (I was raised to be very money-conscious). Also, my increased exposure to fashion means my taste has become all the more specific—something has to really impress me before I’m willing to invest in it. I’m picky, and I don’t care who knows it!
That’s not to say, however, that everything I buy is an “investment“—at least, not in terms of cost. I love the high street and, in Britain, we have access to some of the best affordable brands in the world. Although I shop from it, I do so mindfully. However, I apply that mentality to any high-end purchases I’m considering. In the past, I’ve been swayed into purchasing on name alone, but, in my tenure at Who What Wear, I’ve developed a thicker skin for designer pieces, which allows me to look past the gold-gilded embossing and instead, I see the piece for what is it, and can better determine whether it’s actually worth it.
As you can see, I’m very particular about the clothes I wear, the story they tell, and the impact they have on my life. So, I thought, why not share my shopping picks with you, pieces even a perfectionist can’t find fault with, which I’ll update regularly. I hope you find something you like and can see yourself wearing it for a long time.
Tagged: luxury