Louise Olsen
Artist, co-founder and designer, Dinosaur Designs
Atrue creative and fashion force to be reckoned with, Louise Olsen’s wardrobe is a beautiful blend of vintage treasures, statement sneakers, 60s prints and Dinosaur Designs jewellery of course! Taking inspiration from the likes of Tilda Swinton and artist Louise Nevelson, it is little wonder Louise’s wardrobe rebukes seasonal trends, generic brands and bland silhouettes, instead preferring to showcase innovative outfits that inspire rather than blend in.
How would you describe your personal style?
Utility, tailored, classic.
Who are your style icons? Tilda Swinton, Charlotte Rampling, Rick Owens’ muse Michele Lamy, Jillian Davison and Louise Nevelson.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
A Liberty lawn pink dress my grandmother made when I was five.
What are your favourite brands?
I have many! Jil Sander, Phoebe Philo, Rei Kawakubo, Miuccia Prada, Toni Maticevski, Chanel, Anna and Luke from Romance Was Born, Deborah Sams and Mary Lou Ryan from bassike, Rick Owens, The Row, Dries Van Noten, the list goes on …
Have you ever made a style faux pas?
Wearing shoes that were way too high for me. Heels aren’t great for posture and you can end up walking like a crow.
Top three wardrobe must haves?
A good shirt, jacket and trousers.
What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe? Some of my mum’s ball gowns from the 1950s.
What would you buy if money was no object? A work of art.
Summer or winter fashion? Winter.
Denim or dresses? Denim.
Heels or sneakers? Sneakers.
Is there anything in your wardrobe you have regretted throwing out? I try not to think about regrets.
Favourite fashion era? The ’60s and ’70s. I feel it was a time where people could really be themselves, discover and experiment. It was a wonderful creative time in fashion and art.
Best designer fashion purchase this year? A pair of Rick Owens silk pants.
Best bargain fashion purchase this year? The Row V-neck jumper purchased from Net-a-porter.
A beauty product you can’t live without? Rationale’s Essential Six range.
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