A NET-A-PORTER Editor Talks Fashion

CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NET-A-PORTER

My style is best described as timeless and classic. Having found my aesthetic about six to eight years ago, it now rarely changes. Ever since then, I’ve only opted for wardrobe staples like suiting, shirting, denim and copious amounts of black and beige – which I interject with new details each season to make the looks feel modern. Think chain necklaces, neck scarves and layering pieces – all of which play a part in keeping the styling interesting and relevant, so my wardrobe still feels exciting. 

Sneakers have been a footwear staple over the past six months. For someone who isn’t naturally sporty, I love a sneaker that’s understated without any branding. This way, it can easily be paired back with more formal pieces like suits, once we return to ‘normal’.

The ‘modern black dress’ is my favourite seasonal trend. It’s a new take on the black bodycon dress, with a sexy update. Some great examples are Proenza Schouler’s figure enhancing dresses with longer hemlines, or Khaite’s ribbed knit ones, with sweetheart necklines.

A knit dress is a must for every woman this season. Its versatility and comfort make it suitable for multiple occasions – including working from home. Classic styles with interesting details, such as Christopher Esber’s designs with subtle cut-out details, are the perfect investment piece.

Oversized knitwear is the autumn staple I go back to year after year – even more so now, while working from home. The chunky turtleneck styles from Totême can be easily styled with slim fit jeans and knee-high boots for added femininity. Opt for thin ribbed pieces for layering, chunky and oversized styles that can be worn with a blazer, and even ‘zip up’ styles that can be worn as a dress. 

The three pieces every woman should invest in are a well-tailored suit, a chunky chelsea boot and a watch which won't date or lose its value. 

Bottega Veneta, Cartier, Saint Laurent and Gucci are proving to be some of our most popular brands this year, with classic investment pieces such as combat and over the knee boots, minimal leather bags, and belts in black, tan and brown all driving sales.

We are very excited to stock new knitwear brand, Extreme Cashmere, on NET-A-PORTER this season – it’s going to launch on site in November. The brand reinvents classic styles in surprising colours and shapes, and produces some of the best cashmere around.

The new fashion week format was all about flexibility. Designers were incredibly creative with their presentations, be that via film or in person. Although we didn’t do any travelling overseas or go to events, it was great to be able to meet one-on-one with the designers virtually, where possible, to learn about the collections.

Molly Goddard is a show that stood out to me. She's really found balance between fashion and function. This season, her whimsical and fantasy dresses were fused with everyday knitwear and denim, showing she is really looking to create her own 'world' to dress her customers for all occasions.

The best part of my job is seeing the new brands we scout land on the site, as well as the extensive thought we give our Vanguard programme, where we nurture up-and-coming designers. They’re both really rewarding aspects of the job.

This year, it’s been hard not being with the team in the office. We have such a strong sense of camaraderie and are so used to being together, it’s been a real separation.

The pandemic has also changed everyone’s shopping habits. People are looking to invest in timeless styles – items you can buy now and wear forever, as well as those with strong a sustainable focus. The latter will be even more at the forefront of shopper’s minds in years to come – which is one of the reasons we’re continuously adding new brands to our NET SUSTAIN platform. 

Visit Net-A-Porter.com