Lu’s Fashion Little Black Book
Denim: FRAME
I wear denim 95% of the time, so I’m happy to invest a little more. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to snap up a few Frame pairs in their London sample sale and have been addicted ever since – they’re super soft, yet really hold their shape. If I’m shopping on the high street it’s Topshop, with ‘Straight’ being my go-to shape – they recently launched ‘The Editor’, which I can’t wait to try. Jamie skinnies are also a classic; every wardrobe needs a simple black skinny.
Tailoring: ARKET
It may sound a little OTT, but Arket truly is like old Celine on the high street. I’m obsessed with their tailored trouser worn with a sweatshirt and trainers for a polished off-duty look. Tailored trousers must fit properly though, so make sure you pop to your local tailor to make them the perfect shape for you.
Basics: GAP
Gap do the best linen tees – worn with a lacy bra or over swimwear, they're super versatile. & Other Stories also do great organic cotton crew neck tees at such a good price point, it’s easy to stock up.
Shirts: ISABEL MARANT ETOILE
Needless to say, I love a white frilly shirt and Isabel Marant Étoile never fails to deliver. The brand brings out a new version every season which means my collection is never ending!
Frame
Isabel Marant
Knitwear
Sandro
Knitwear: IMPOSSIBLE TO CHOOSE
It’s too hard to pick! If money was no object, I’d go for The Row but my collection at home is mainly made up of Isabel Marant, Joseph, Anine Bing and M&S. Anything chunky in a cream or navy is a winner in my book. I get so excited in September when the stores finally get in the new stock after months of summer dresses - I’m a true knit girl.
Outerwear: JOSEPH
Joseph always do a really good classic overcoat – nothing too jazzy, natural fabric, clean lines and beautiful silhouettes. They are pricey though, so definitely one to look out for in the sale, or worth a trip to Bicester Village.
Partywear: RACIL
I’m quite low-key when it comes to dressing up. My go-to formula would be jeans, a tee, heels and a Racil Blazer. Their ‘Le Smoking’ tuxedo blazer is just so chic; I love them styled as a full power suit, or equally as impactful worn as separates. RACIL is one of those brands that you can always rely on for a piece to make you feel that little bit more confident in yourself.
Swimwear: MATTEAU
Simple, classic and elegant, Matteau is a brand to know. I don’t like swimwear that’s too fussy, so I love their square cut maillot shape – it’s so flattering on all body shapes. They have been so clever to create a brand identity that is recognisable but still timeless at the same time.
Underwear: & OTHER STORIES
The prettiest designs at a really affordable price. & Other Stories also do gorgeous socks!
Anine Bing
Joseph
Catbird
Collage Vintage
Heels: Manolo Blahnik
The navy Maysale mules are top of my wishlist – they’re such an iconic shoe but still feel modern. If you haven't watched his documentary, The Man Who Made Shoes For Lizards, you must – he is an artist in the truest form.
Boots: ANINE BING
The flat studded Anine Bing Charlie boots are possibly the most worn shoe in my wardrobe – they are insanely comfy and add a little rock n’ roll edge to a more classic outfit. The Stevie heels are another classic, adding a little height when you need a bit of a lift. I’ve also got my eye on the new Ava boots, which are bit of a mix between the two.
Trainers: VEJA
Made from organically sourced and sustainable materials, Veja are the trifector of sustainable, cool and comfy.
31Chapellane
Arket
Matteau
Racil
Handbags: OLD CELINE
There is literally no competition when it comes to handbags. I bought the Trio a few years ago and have used it pretty much every day since. I was very kindly given the mini belt bag for my 30th which is a true forever piece. It's not the same brand anymore so I feel very lucky to have two originals from the Phoebe Philo days – keep an eye out on Vestiaire and eBay for similar styles.
Jewellery: CATBIRD
Based in New York City, Catbird specialises in dainty fine jewellery that is subtle but beautiful. From fine gold chains to diamond engagement rings, they bridge the gap between something that looks individual and vintage but also cool and contemporary. The few pieces I have I wear every day.
London: THE SHOP AT BLUEBIRD
A converted carriage hall in the centre of Covent Garden, the new The Shop At Bluebird (the store moved from its Kings Road site to Floral Street last year) is the coolest space to shop in London. Their selection includes well-known contemporary and high-end designers, as well as more under-the-radar brands, plus an amazing collection of interiors and jewellery.
Merci
TheLineNYC
LebonMarcherivegauche
The Shop At Bluebird
Paris: LE BON MARCHÉ
Always my first stop in Paris, everything from the food hall to the shoes is worth a visit. Everything about the space is so chic, plus it’s amazing for people watching. Another is Merci, in the third arondissement – did you even go to Paris if you didn't take a photo of the Fiat 500 in the courtyard? It’s the coolest concept store, from homeware to fashion with a few amazing cafes thrown in, too.
New York: THE APARTMENT BY THE LINE
A converted loft in Soho, the designers have curated a living space in which everything is shoppable, from the coffee table books to underwear drawers. It’s an absolute haven – every time I'm there it makes me want to move to NYC even more.
On a Budget: H&M TREND
When you’re browsing the high street brand, filter by their ‘Trend' section: from catwalk-inspired pieces to capsule wardrobe essentials, it’s a really good option when you're buying more expensive fabrics like cashmere and silk. Great for a little wardrobe reboot without having to use a credit card.
For a Blow Out: OLD CELINE
Take me to the archives and I’ll try on every piece and imagine a world where I can wear it every day. More realistic is Isabel Marant – no one does that cool, effortless French girl look quite like her.
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