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About
When it comes to clothing, it’s all in the minor details. This is true for design, production and the many ways in which we try to pursue less. Styling too, is an important component of fashion. And to a certain extent, we are all stylists. There are considerations that go through our head as we dress up in the morning, even if we are not consciously aware of them. Unfortunately, we are not all equally proficient at it. It’s an art that requires years of cultivation and it requires a type of attention to detail that not many have access to. This is why we sat down with Layla, our stylist, who was responsible for styling a number of our campaigns, including The Essentials Campaign and The Capsule Suitcase, and asked her to share some of her insights on reaching a personal style and how to do more, with less clothes.
1. Could you tell us a bit about yourself? What is your personal style/ aesthetic?
I work as a freelance fashion stylist in Stockholm. Generally, I strive for a basic wardrobe with garments that are easy to style both together as well as with more eccentric garments. A good look is all about comfort, and this can range from basic sportswear to a highly elevated and chique outfit.
2. What are 5 garments every closet should have? What are your 5 go-to essentials?
Essential pieces to me are a white blouse, a classic pair of blue jeans, a nice pair of tailored trousers, a tank top and a nice thick knit. I like wearing these garments oversized, except for the tank top.
3. What role do elevated basics play in a curated wardrobe?
They play a key role. I focus on quality because I own and buy relatively little, so every garment needs to be able to last many wears. Elevated basics also work well as a foundation to your wardrobe, it enables the freedom to play around with more sophisticated pieces, including jewelry, shoes, bags and specific stand-out garments. A basic, well-made tee — for example — will always work with a pair of unconventional and fashion-forward trousers and heels. It even makes the latter stand out more.
4. What do you look for when buying something new (or used) to add to your wardrobe?
I am drawn to creative brands that value quality both in material and design. I am at this stage in my life now where I know quite well what I like; I am very specific in what I want to add to my wardrobe. I have allowed myself to to take the time in finding the garment I’m looking for; I never really buy anything spontaneously anymore.
5. What does the pursuit of less mean to you?
It means investing in staple garments I know I will wear a lot is — It’s something I live by. I also try to take really good care of my items by for example not over-washing them, storing them correctly and repairing them at a tailor if needed. It also means to invoke a higher level of creativity, because you have to make do with the garments you already own, rather than buying something new. You’d be surprised by how you can breathe new life into your garments simply by wearing them differently or combining them with something else. Finally, I think it’s important to find your own style and recognize what works for you. Everyone should have “their jeans”, “their tailored trousers” or “their knit”; garments that you can always reliably return to.
6. Do you think there’s a difference between being fashionable and stylish?
Yes. I think stylish timeless, and fashionable is more about “the now”. Stylish is more about an effortless, comfortable, relaxed look. It can be super simple, but it just fits and the person looks comfortable and relaxed. Confident and fitting well in their clothes. It looks well thought-through but still effortless.