FR ONT ROW

If it’s hot it’s here

…it’s the new Connolly store on London’s Clifford Street. The luxury label, founded in 1878, went on to supply leathers for the likes of Aston Martin and Rolls-Royce. It was revived and became a London fashion gem of the 90s, and has been relaunched once more by Isabel Ettedgui, widow of the late fashion master Joseph. We caught up with her in her new emporium of cashmere, tailoring, leather and perfectly curated homewares in the middle of Mayfair. THE CONNOLLY USP I want this to be where you come for the great black coat, a navy jumper, perfectly cut trousers. It’s not fantasy; it’s things that are going to last more than half a season. Everything we do is focused on men’s styling, which felt ahead of the curve when we started designing two years ago, but now feels wonderfully zeitgeist-y. YOUR UNIFORM I wish I could wear a uniform – it would be so easy! But in general you’ll find me in a pair of trousers, a jumper and an oversized shirt. I’m not formal at all. INSPIRATION Tina Chow [the late model, right] comes to mind: the great trousers, the masculine cardigan. Anyone who is able to have that sense of who they are, so that they don’t have to follow trends. TIPS FOR AGELESS STYLE As long as you have key quality pieces – a good blazer is really important – you can add the cheaper or cooler stuff from Zara that you think you can’t wear. It’s just not doing it head-to-toe. TREASURED POSSESSION My Patek Philippe watch. It is the last thing that my husband Joe gave me. I’d hate to lose it – to me it is priceless and it is the only jewellery I wear. connollyengland.com