Leah De Wavrin’s Little Black Book
If I could only shop on one street, it would be Portobello Road in London, especially at the weekend as it’s so buzzy and colourful. From vintage fashion to furniture, there’s a bit of everything for everyone – I’d also recommend enjoying some Jamaican BBQ or Indian samosas while you’re there.
The coolest pieces I’ve found on my travels were some vintage flamenco dresses in Seville. They are all a little different and have so much character – I love wearing them with venetian slippers on a hot summer’s day. I have some floral styles, as well as some ones with spots. When my brand Thelma & Leah did dresses, they were my main source of inspiration. A little nod to Jane Birkin in the 60s.
The best destination for independent stores is Japan. It’s a complete treasure trove of cool, unusual shops. It’s tricky to offer a steer on where to go because you need to wander around Tokyo to discover what you like, but Shibuya is a good place to start. As you would when going out for food, ask a local for their tips, especially if you like their style.
@LEAHDEWAVRIN
@LEAHDEWAVRIN
@LEAHDEWAVRIN
@THELMAANDLEAH
The best department store in the world is Liberty in London. It has a nice layout and a great perfume and cosmetic department. Plus, the people working there don’t nag you to buy anything – which is something I loathe!
The most unexpected destination for great fashion is Miami. It has some amazing vintage stores, as well as skate shops where you can find great t-shirts. I just love the city’s art deco vibe, too.
I couldn’t possibly say what the best vintage shop in the world is. There are so many great ones – UK charity shops always have some treasures and I love Rellik. I recently went to my first physical vintage store in a long time in Athens. Online, I enjoy scouring Etsy.
My favourite vintage piece is a pink Mexican dress I got on Etsy – I get so many compliments when I wear it. My best advice for finding vintage online is to spend a bit of time searching different key words and where it was originally made. For example: “Tartan kilt Scotland wool” – the more detailed your search, the better the results. Patience is key – make sure you follow a few vintage stores – either on social media or through email sign-ups – so you get notified when they have new stock.
The coolest under-the-radar brand is Coperni. I love the founders Sebastien and Arnaud, and the brand’s modern look is never over the top. Their designs are wearable and sexy, which is everything I want in my everyday wardrobe.
My perfect shopping day would ideally be on my own. I find it very stressful to shop under pressure – I like being able to take my time, try some things on… it’s something that shouldn’t be rushed!
The best people watching in the world is done from Japan, again. I also love Miami for people watching – I used to spend my Christmas holidays there every year and loved watching the mix of older ladies lunching, hot models and young skater kids.
@LEAHDEWAVRIN
@LEAHDEWAVRIN
@LEAHDEWAVRIN
@THELMAANDLEAH
The coolest resort label is Thelma & Leah, of course! We channel a bit of the tropical and resort vibe, so expect to find big prints and colourful, playful designs. I absolutely love Emily Levine and Gimaguas, too.
The best brand for swimwear is Hunza G. The fabric fits all body shapes, whether you’re pregnant, slender or curvy.
If I could only wear one brand again, it would be old YSL in the winter and Jacquemus in the summer. Two of my absolute favourites.
Follow @LeahDewavrin on Instagram
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