Advice on life and style from the fashion designer.
How can I make my home feel instantly festive?
It’s about the people that visit. A home that feels festive is one that is busy and filled with laughter, fun and conversations.
The most memorable gift you’ve ever given?
I was raised by a single mother and my grandmother. I would save up and buy a beautiful book and further decorate it before filling it with these long written essays about how brilliant they were.
And the best you’ve ever received?
My children – and my husband, interestingly – always draw and write me beautiful cards.
Emma Lewisham Supernatural Face Oil
£90
Harrods
Your most prized beauty product?
I have two. One is from Emma Lewisham, a vitamin A renewal oil, and every morning I use Sisleÿa by Sisley Paris – I couldn’t live without it.
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
Katharine Hepburn’s. I’d wear all her suits.
You can only save one item of clothing in your wardrobe, what do you pick?
My wedding dress. It was the first one I ever made, before I knew how to construct wedding dresses properly.
What’s your current obsession?
My muse and inspiration for this season, photographer Gisèle Freund. And my dog. I never thought I could love a dog like I love her.
Share the ideal date night.
A long walk and a cocktail at a bar.
Which visual artist should I take notice of?
I’m obsessed with photography. I made one of Nadine Ijewere’s dresses for her wedding and I’m dying to work with her.
What’s a great conversation starter?
Ask questions. Don’t talk about yourself.
The best advice you’ve received?
Fake it ’til you make it! I still haven’t completely made it but I couldn’t have done it without that piece of advice because, my God, I’ve had to fake my confidence.
What makes a good friend?
Someone who shows up.
Name your biggest vice.
Turning up my music extremely loud. I find it hard to enjoy a good album without doing so.
And tell us something about you that you think would surprise us.
My hair used to be two centimetres long and I would only dress in second-hand clothing from The Salvation Army.
The secret to garnering respect?
Responding, not reacting.
Which album would soundtrack your life?
Everyone Else Is Doing It, so Why Can’t We? by The Cranberries.
The one book everyone should read?
Good Inside by Dr Becky Kennedy.
Do you have a signature scent?
If I wear perfume it’s Prada Infusion d’Iris eau de parfum.
Where should my next holiday be?
Pākiri Beach in New Zealand.
AG1
£97
Athletic Greens
I want to pack light, what are three essentials?
AG1 powder, my Celluma red light and my black Mara dress from my label. It has modern design lines that can be dressed up or down.
Name an investment piece I won’t regret this season.
I’ve just designed these loafers in collaboration with Grenson. I’ve been wearing them during the day and dress up my evening looks with them too.
I’m hosting a holiday party, what should be on my menu?
I always love a prawn cocktail. Serve it in silver for that extra old-world festive feel.
