Lena of The Sewing Space in Urban Rose dress
I’m excited to introduce my latest Stylish Thoughts contributor, Lena from Sydney (Australia) who writes the blog The Sewing Space.
What is the secret to great style?
I believe that some people have innate sense of style, others have to work harder.
Stylish clothes must have suitable silhouette and proportions, impeccable fit, combination of colours and textures, and then make it all look spontaneous and effortless. Style can not be faked!
What is the one thing you would spend a lot of money on?
Eyewear
What is the one thing you wouldn’t spend a lot of money on?
Jewellery
What’s the secret to looking polished?
good haircut, appropriate makeup, beautiful shoes and good posture
What is your current obsession?
My colour obsession is purple. Purple and the combination of it with other colours.
What’s your secret to making yourself stand out?
The person stands out when the clothes or a combination of clothes and accessories she or he is wearing is original. Most of my clothes are designed by me, made out of fabric of my choice, to my measurements, and I like the fact that I can’t meet my “twin” on the street.
The one piece of advice most women need but don’t get?
Rock your clothes your way. Don’t copy the mannequins.
What’s the best piece of style wisdom you’ve ever received? Who inspires you?
Once I was walking down Oxford Street in Sydney, and I saw a young man in drag. He was wearing sky high heels and a bright pink tutu. He was wearing a blonde wig and eye- popping makeup. As he walked down the street, people would stop and stare. Did he care? Not even a tiny bit. This event was an epiphany for me of sorts, the sign, if you like. Here was a man expressing himself through his looks. He wasn’t trying to blend in or conform, he just WAS. Some people were uncomfortable with the way he looked, but it was not his problem. After this day I found more courage to wear colour, I bought myself my first hat ( I always thought it would make me stand out too much ) and I feel more MYSELF than ever before. Every time I reach for a safe option, I think of the young man in a pink tutu. Clothes are a powerful way of self-expression.
Detachable Collars
What is your favourite current trend?
Detachable collar trend. I can see myriad of ways this trend can be used in just about any wardrobe, it will make boring tops so much more exciting! For women who don’t like wearing scarves ( like me ), it will be an alternative way to add some colour and interest. I think this trend is hot, hot, hot!
What’s your favourite short cut to style?
A tailored jacket will uplift any outfit on any day
What’s the worst current trend?
I see exposed zippers are still all the rage on the runways. I really don’t like this trend, there is nothing pretty about crude zipper tape on your backside. Also the shoes that make feet look like hoofs – the ones with a high platform.
See through clothes with black “thunderpants” underneath are hideous and I dread the day when I will be seeing them on the streets.
What are your favourite websites
fashionetc.com, fashionising.com, insideoutstyleblog.com
How would you describe your personal style?
Functional, comfortable, yet with an unexpected twist – I love tailored jackets, trousers, clothes that multi-function and do not restrict me. I prefer natural fabrics – wool, cotton and silk. I love adding a detail to my outfit that will make it original. I believe clothes must not steal your show.
Who are your style icons?
I don’t have style icons as such, but there are a few celebrities I look at more closely in gossip magazines – Jennifer Aniston and Pippa Middleton are on my radar at the moment.
