A Cool Girl’s Guide To Modern, Minimal Style

I’d describe my personal style as cool, classy and effortless. I’ve always loved fashion. I recently found old school reports from when I was eight asking what I wanted to be when I grew up – I said a fashion designer. I studied fashion design straight from school at 16 through college and uni, and asked my parents for a sewing machine for my 21st birthday, which I still use today at 38. Expressing myself through what I wore made me feel confident and seen – it gave me power without having to say anything. 

To this day, I don’t worry about what’s trending. Over the years, I’ve become aware of what I like and what I feel good in. When I see everyone wearing the same thing, it sends me the opposite way – I like to stand out, not blend in. I always filter trends through a personal lens. I ask: does this feel like me? Can I style it with what I already own? If yes, then it’s worth exploring. Trends refresh my wardrobe, they don’t define it.

Timeless staples that are built to last form the foundation of my wardrobe. Great jeans from Zara & Agolde, blazers from & Other Stories and wool coats – some of my favourites are from ARKET and The Frankie Shop (the longer the better). Also, a simple white tee will always be a big part of my rotation. Detail and texture are what elevate a simple look. I’ll start with a clean base – a white tee and tailored trousers – and then add interest through a hat, statement shoes, jewellery or a jacket.

A capsule wardrobe should be the kind of curated edit that reflects your lifestyle and aesthetic. My approach is to always start with my most-worn pieces – the ones I reach for repeatedly because they’re comfortable, versatile and make me feel confident.

Effortless, polished looks are all about balance, proportion and intention. A tonal palette and sticking to complementary shades are what make everything feel cohesive. A one-and-done look – whether that’s a jumpsuit, co-ord or colour-drenching – is easy, effortless and instantly makes you look put together. Also, adding one structured item – like a blazer or trench worn over leisurewear – just takes things up a notch.

I always start with great basics. Think tailored trousers, jeans or a crisp white shirt, and then play with proportions using an oversized blazer or knit, and add one refined accessory, like gold jewellery, a cool belt or a structured bag.

Day to day, I rely on pieces that are comfortable, practical yet elevated. As a buyer, content creator and mum, I’m often in meetings, travelling or at the park. I rely on versatile pieces and clever styling tricks to adapt my wardrobe for different occasions. For professional settings, I lean on tailoring and structure; for casual outings, I choose relaxed silhouettes. I often keep the same base and simply swap out the accessories or outerwear.

In terms of the brands, I gravitate towards those that offer seasonless pieces. COS, ARKET and Massimo Dutti have great quality items worth investing in. I splurge on high-end items when I know it’s a timeless piece that will last, like a tailored coat, leather bag or a classic shoe I’ll wear for years. For trend-led or seasonal pieces, I look at the high street. I also mix in pre-owned pieces to balance sustainability with style. 

I often rent for special occasions and buy a lot of pre-loved too. For hiring, especially for holidays and events, my go-to is By Rotation. For pre-loved, it’s usually Vinted – the app is easy to navigate and I almost always find what I’m looking for.

I take a lot of inspiration from editorials, fashion shows and street style. I don’t necessarily replicate looks but I interpret moods, colour palettes and styling ideas. I also love looking at all the street style during Fashion Week, and of course, Instagram and Pinterest – I save looks that resonate with me and revisit them when I want to update my wardrobe. That said, it’s the elegance of the classics that inspires me. Audrey Hepburn, Bianca Jagger and the supermodels of the 90s – they were the ultimate cool girls. 

Accessories are a huge part of my look. A lot of girls are into bags and shoes but for me it’s hats and sunglasses. They really elevate an outfit. Some of my favourites include Shevoke, Taylor Morris & Meller. When it comes to accessories, I look for pieces that can elevate a look. At the moment I have my eye on long-line wool coat from ARKET, the JW Pei Lucia bag and some loafers and ankle boots from Mango.

My best piece of style advice is to stick to what makes you feel your most confident. Be aware of what you naturally gravitate towards, create a moodboard to identify patterns, experiment without pressure and always ask: does this feel like me? Invest in quality staples and don’t chase trends – filter them through your own aesthetic. Personal style is about self-expression and ease. When you feel good, it shows.

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Photography: Laura Granados