ask the experts

Want to know more about the women behind the wardrobes? Our four style icons offer tips and tell us what inspires their fashion choices.

Nicola Cooper

Is there an outfit every woman should have?

An elegant two-piece suit in a good, expensive fabric. You can wear the bottoms on their own or the blazer separately to layer over other things. There are so many beautiful suits available in every cut, from exaggerated and baggy to completely fitted.

What do you recommend in terms of workwear? Invest in something that makes a statement about your personality when you walk into a business environment. People have made up their minds about you before you open your mouth. Are you able to articulate who you are and who you want to be? Heels make me appear taller, which I find valuable. When I had to deal with businessmen and take on more senior roles, heels gave me the presence I wanted.

But on days when I’m just doing day-to-day stuff, I wear well-cut denims, tank tops and high-end sneakers.

Do you incorporate your tattoos as accessories? My tattoos are quite visible so there’s no need for too many accessories! I’ve never really been an accessories person. I don’t wear earrings. But I have a few key pieces that I wear daily, like a personalised necklace that says ‘Coop’ – that’s what my friends call me. It’s really special to me.

We’ve heard that you’re building the wardrobe of your dreams.

My friend Kim Gash is making things for me – pieces that are tailored and in the finishes and fabrics I want. I’m turning 44 soon and there’s a specific aesthetic I’m going for.