Tastemaker Luena Gama Talks Fashion, Places & More
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FASHION & BEAUTY
THE CAMPAIGN
Loewe’s Decades of Confusion campaign was such a clued up take on the fact that a lot of people didn’t actually know how to pronounce the brand’s name. It made the ad culturally relevant without taking itself too seriously, which is always cool to see.
THE LAST BUY
I’ve ticked a pretty big dream item off my wish list recently: the Miu Miu Aventure Bag. I’ve been on the lookout for a good ‘everything bag’ since I left university, when I expected to graduate from my trusted Le Pliage but it just never happened. This one’s versatile and ideal for every day but doesn’t scream ‘corporate’.
THE COOL FIND
I’ve been dying to get my hands on a Chopova Lowena Fugen skirt and, after some serious scouting, I managed to score it at Dover Street Market. I don’t think I’m the typical Chopova Lowena customer – I wear too many bows and bright colours – but the piece has been surprisingly easy to style. I’ve been pairing it with an oversized white shirt from Simone Rocha, adidas trainers and a brown leather bag from Marge Sherwood.
THE HERO BRANDS
It’s no secret my style is colourful, and my go-to brands include Stine Goya, Baum und Pferdgarten, Damson Madder, Miu Miu, Marimekko and Marni. All six brands are unafraid to explore colour but still deliver silhouettes that are timeless and versatile.
THE TREND
I’m loving sheer layering. It’s so feminine and it adds a little bit of texture to whatever look you are going for. Just don’t overthink it. Be it a slip, an embroidered skirt or a sheer clingy top, you want to incorporate it into your look in comfortable layers in the same way you would use the item if it wasn’t see-through. For example, a sheer flowy dress can easily go over a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, or under a more structured dress for a more vintage, peek-a-boo effect.
THE COLOUR
Blue is slowly creeping into the trend index. Compared to ‘pop of red’ or ‘brat green’, blue is an easy quasi-neutral – especially if you are starting to experiment with more colour in your wardrobe.
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THE EVERYDAY SHOE
My Prada loafers have remained a favourite for the past three or four years. While they’re an investment, I’ve definitely had good cost per wear. As there’s been a shift toward cleaner, smarter fashion trends, a comfortable loafer has become such a go-to for me.
THE WISHLIST PIECE
The loafers might be dethroned by the Miu Miu x New Balance sneakers, which – after months of being on the wait list for – I finally got my hands on. I’m actually so excited to give these a try; they are a pretty neutral warm tone, so they should be easy to style.
THE SUNNIES
I have a small nose and a non-existent nose bridge, so it’s hard to find sunglasses that suit my face. I’ve recently tried the Gentle Monster Jennie Hush Sunglasses at Selfridges which I absolutely loved – but unfortunately the entire collection is now sold out.
THE STYLE RULE
My style is eclectic but always comfortable. I really believe that people shouldn’t be restricted in what they want to wear by gender or body rules, but I think to find your style, you definitely need to start with how the clothes make you feel. That’s my one rule – understand how you want to feel and go from there.
THE FRAGRANCE
Love Don’t be Shy by Kilian is my favourite. It's sweet, warm and I think it really suits my personality.
THE BEAUTY ESSENTIALS
The Beauty Pie Featherlight SPF 50, Dior Lip Oil and Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Sticks are my ultimate trio when I am not in the mood for make-up but still want to look put together.
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CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
THE RESTAURANTS
Burnt Orange in London and Brighton are my absolute favourites. The tasting menu allows you to explore the best of what it has to offer. It’s such a good combination of flavours without being too overwhelming. I always recommend it to anyone heading down to Brighton, but you have to book. I usually like to throw on something a little more special when I go there – it’s not an uptight environment but the secluded nature and décor make it fun to dress up.
THE DRINKS DESTINATION
I love a chill spot for drinks where you don’t have to fight to hear people above an overexcited crowd. My favourite spot for the past year has been the Amie Wine Studio at Eccleston Yards. The wine selection is uncomplicated, and the space is super inviting so you will easily lose track of time while relaxing in the courtyard.
THE TRIP
My next big holiday is Japan. It'll be my first time there and I’m going into it a little blind. I really just want to explore once I get there – so watch this space for my recommendations.
THE COFFEE SHOP
Abuelo Coffee in Cavendish Place is a new favourite. Aside from wanting to ask where every piece of furniture came from, the menu is varied and the coffee is amazing. My order is usually the dulce de leche cold brew.
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THE MUSIC
Recently I stumbled upon Brazy NGA on TikTok. She was dancing to her single ‘Take Your Vibes and Go’ and from the moment she dropped that intro in Mandarin (you have to listen to it) I was obsessed. My music taste is quite varied – I will go from K-pop to immersive soul to Afro beats all in the same hour.
THE FOLLOWS
I can’t emphasise how much I’d like to steal @Wisdm’s closet. His eye for styling and storytelling through fashion is unmatched. Also, @OldLoserInBrooklyn is a fashion writer and analyst who explains so well why fashion is much more than just clothes. Finally, @NoOrdinaryNoire is a bombshell, both in terms of personality and looks. I love her energy.
THE TV
I’m currently bouncing between Supacell and Dr Cha on Netflix but have both on pause to enter my Chinese drama era. I’ve really been loving The Double, a historical romance, as well as The Love You Give Me which is a lovers-to-enemies-back-to-lovers trope.
THE RECENT READ
A bit of a throwback but I recently read ‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell. It’s an allegorical narration that quickly delves into a critical exploration of socio-political awareness and the fight for freedom. It was poignant – and sadly still relevant today.
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