Style Spotlight: Rabea Schif

My personal style is relaxed, casual and all about comfort. I love a short skirt and shorts, and often style them with socks and some playful kitten heels, trainers or loafers. I’m really into that slightly preppy look – it feels fresh but still polished.

A crisp white tank is such a summer staple. You can throw it under a blazer or wear it solo and dress it up or down. My favourites are from Muji; they’re the perfect fit, great quality and affordable. I own them in every colour and just size up or down depending on the fit I’m after. I also love a vest as part of a three-piece suit – it’s such a versatile layering piece. And of course, micro shorts. You can wear them with anything from a tee to a silk shirt and blazer. Add loafers and socks for a preppy vibe or trainers for something more relaxed. If I’m not in the mood to show any skin, tights are my go-to trick. Oh, and sunglasses. A pair of cool sunnies is non-negotiable – they instantly pull a look together.

An independent designer I’m loving this season is Rowen Rose – the bold tailoring and colours are so striking. I also love Chalsie Joan’s made-to-order blouses. They have that vintage charm I’m always drawn to. Maison Cléo is a constant favourite – sheer blouses, playful skirts, all handmade in Paris by a mother-daughter duo. I love mixing romantic pieces with androgynous structure and Ludovic de Saint Sernin’s cropped leather bustiers capture that style so well. Low Classic has also caught my eye – it’s minimalist and sharp with a similar vibe to The Frankie Shop. And Tibi always nails that balance of clean lines with a playful twist. Lastly, Fait Par Foutch brings that slow fashion, vintage-inspired energy I can’t resist.

When it comes to mixing high-street with high-end, I live for my Zara blazers – especially the pinstripe one I’ve had for years. I’ll pair them with vintage denim, a simple tee and something elevated like my vintage loafers from The Row or a designer bag. Accessories are the key to blending these two worlds for an elevated final look. I also get my wear out of vintage  H&M dresses from past designer collaborations and the Studio collection – they’re timeless and always get compliments.

My number one styling tip to look put together is simple: a white tank, great trousers, slicked-back hair in a bun and chunky jewellery. It always looks clean, chic and effortless. Also, my clever hack for moving from day to night is always having a great blazer on hand. Throwing it over jeans and a tank, adding some jewellery, a red lip or a hair accessory makes the whole look feel more considered. Also, keep a pair of ballerinas or kitten heels in your bag if you’ve been running around in trainers – you never know when you’ll need to dress things up.

For beach holidays, I like to keep it easy but polished – think linen sets, crochet dresses, oversized shirts over swimwear. I love anything sheer, and I always pack a blazer for chilly evenings. For city breaks, it’s all about versatility. I’ll wear tailored micro shorts with a tank and vest, adding a blazer or silk shirt when needed. Closed-toe flats are a must – I prefer them over sandals when walking around all day. I also like wearing tights under shorts for extra coverage when I’m not feeling super leggy. It’s all about layers that work from day to night. For weekend brunch in the sun, my go-to outfit is something easy but put-together – maybe a knitted top with shorts and closed-toe flats. I’m not a big open-toe person so I just find ballerinas and slingbacks feel more finished.

To a wedding or garden party, I’d typically wear a long lace or crochet dress – or a white suit, though maybe skip that if it’s someone else’s wedding. Twin sets are a great stress-free option too. And sheer dresses always hit that perfect note – elegant but playful. 

Hair accessories like a bow or chic hairpins can transform your look. Socks with kitten heels give you that cool preppy edge, and lately, I’m really into adding men’s ties to shirts for a sharper contrast. A blazer thrown over your shoulders never hurts, and sunglasses are an absolute essential.