My Life In Fashion: Vanissa Antonious

My style is best described as understated and timeless. I’m a big believer that clothes should never wear you – it should be the other way round – so I prefer to keep things simple. It must be said the best piece of fashion advice I’ve ever received is less is more. Even so, my outfits always have a point of difference or unexpected twist, be it a pop of colour or special piece of jewellery.  

If I could swap wardrobes with anyone it would be my boyfriend’s. I love wearing oversized shirts and baggy trousers, and I often end up borrowing his shirts. Unfortunately, his trousers don’t quite fit me! There are plenty of menswear brands worth buying from as a woman – I love the quality and fit of Sunspel, for example, and Les Tien is well worth a look for soft loungewear pieces.

My love of shoes is a bit of a happy accident. I can’t pinpoint an exact moment the obsession started, but before launching my own brand, I was frustrated by the lack of options out there which spoke to my style. When it comes to shoes, I tend to look for timelessness and good quality first and foremost. My love for shoes grows with every collection I create, too.

My first designer purchase was a pair of Burberry heels from the 2004 collection, which I bought at a sample sale. They were made from a stretch mesh fabric which wrapped around the foot and up the ankle – it was the early noughties, I was living in Sydney and wearing  four-inch heels was something I still did! Sadly, they got damaged but I still hung onto them – along with all the other shoes I’ve purchased since my early 20s... 

I couldn’t possibly count how many shoes I own. I try hard not to order too many each season but it’s amazing how you can convince yourself that they’re something you ‘need’. Naturally, the shoes I design have more sentimental value as they carry specific memories, so I couldn’t part with any of them. Some of them are in storage but most are in my wardrobe – Orchis, a simple heeled pump was one of the first styles I designed, which I wore to death then and still do now. Several other designs were very difficult to execute in production, too, so seeing them come to life has been incredible. The creative high when something comes together always ends up creating a strong emotional connection for me – it explains why I hold onto everything. 

My favourite piece I’ve ever designed is probably a toss-up between the Proxima sandal and Giena heel. It’s hard to choose, but I love the way both wrap around the foot in a fluid way, with no clear beginning or end. My design process often starts with playing a with strap of leather – either wrapping it around the foot or cutting and twisting it together in the shape of a bag handle. I’m looking forward to the launch of our upcoming Orion bag, which is very ergonomic.
 

The pieces I treasure the most in my wardrobe are some rings which were passed down to me by my mum. We live miles apart, so when I wear them, I feel like she’s with me – something that’s become all the more important over the past year. Gold jewellery is very popular in Egypt, where my mum grew up, so she’s always had a beautiful collection. Most of the pieces are quite specific in design, but there were two chunky gold rings I loved – they intertwine and are fluid, curved and demonstrate a contrast between strong and soft. It’s something which really inspires me in my own work. 

My best bargain find was during my first visit to New York, almost 15 years ago. I remember taking a trip to the Meatpacking District to visit the Maison Margiela store, which felt like it was in the middle of nowhere at the time. I found a blazer with padded shoulders, and bought it on sale. It doesn’t really suit me if I’m honest, but I’ll still treasure it for the memories. 

Designing hasn’t always been my day job. Before launching NEOUS, I worked for both Harper’s Bazaar UK and Australia for eight years, where I developed a deep understanding of luxury and an obsession with quality and versatility. What I miss most about working in magazines is threefold: the chance to discover new brands, experiencing pieces first-hand and meeting designers. I also met some of my best friends and mentors during this time, too. 

Australian fashion has a significant influence on my work. I grew up there, so I know all about the ease that comes with Australian fashion – there’s also a level of quality which is hard to find elsewhere. There weren’t many high-street shops around when I was younger, so I would always turn to Australian designers, who tend to be more laidback and relaxed. Generally speaking, there’s a bigger focus on understated pieces and refined minimalism, which I love. Albus Lumen, a brand started by my friend and stylist Marina Anfonina, is one to check out – she creates the most beautiful linen pieces for summer.

My most memorable fashion moment was Balenciaga’s A/W 2009 collection by Nicholas Ghesquire – I remember being incredibly moved by it. From the colours and the way the fabrics moved, to the contrast between feminine and structured shapes, everything about it was just perfect.
 

Follow @VanissaAntonious and visit NEOUS.co.uk