Dione Davis’ Little Black Book Of Fashion

The best concept store in the world was Colette in Paris, before it closed. I miss it so much. Some of my first jobs in New York were at French boutiques, so whenever I came over to Paris, Colette was always what we aspired to be like. I also love Dover Street Market and Totokaelo in NYC – the people who work at both are very cool, yet it never feels intimidating or overly exclusive. Everyone is helpful and friendly, which isn’t always the case in designer stores. 

The best destination for independent stores is Toulouse, France. There’s one  store called Rendezvous which really reminds me of La Garçonne – it’s a minimalist’s dream, yet still has a playful feel which isn’t always an easy balance to strike. They had some beautiful linen separates the last time I visited, which are perfect for the French summer and exactly how I want to dress. I’ve discovered a lot of new brands there, but they also have plenty of my favourites, too.

The best department store in the world is Printemps. I’m very impressed by their social media presence, as well as their efforts to include age, gender, and racially diverse people on their website. My background is in visual merchandising, so I can really appreciate how well they lay out the store and bring it to life – it makes the shopping experience so much smarter and totally transportive. I also love the MyTheresa store in Munich. 

The most unexpected destination for great fashion is Vancouver. A lot of people think it’s all about the outdoors, but there’s some good shopping there. One store that sticks out in my mind is Bacci, which stocks incredible brands like Sacai, Loewe and Balenciaga… I didn’t expect it to have such a wide range, and yet it still feels highly curated. 

The coolest under-the-radar brand is The Great Eros. It started off as a lingerie brand but has now moved into ready-to-wear. They specialise in quality, luxury essentials which, as I’ve got older, have become more of a focus in my wardrobe. I have a top from there that can be worn in so many ways, and I always look forward to their summer collections which include lots of linen separates – plus, their jewellery offering is pretty special. 

My perfect shopping day would start uptown in NYC and I’d work downwards. Everything I like is quite spread out, so I’d have to map out my day quite strategically. Dover Street Market would be my first stop, then I’d head over to T.A., another great concept store in the Meatpacking District, which is black-owned and hosts a lot of really cool independent brands. After going to La Garçonne, I’d probably make a pitstop with some lunch and a quick massage – there’s a place that does one for $50, which is a great way to break up a long day of shopping! After that, I’d finish up in Brooklyn, which has all the kinds of brands you could wish for. 

The best people watching in the world is done from Bedstein, a neighbourhood in Brooklyn. Every week there are block parties where local artisans come to sell their art, jewellery and more – fashion people often drop by to pick up some great one-off pieces too, so it’s the perfect place to pick up some fresh outfit inspiration. 

The coolest resort label is Matteau. I don’t like anything too fussy, and I love the way Matteau’s swimwear is classic with clean lines. I also like the way the models on their website are a variety of body types – I personally find it useful when shopping online, as it gives me a better idea of what something might look like on me. 

The best vintage store in the world is Thank God I’m A VIP, in Paris – I’ve never seen so much 90s Mugler in one place that’s so well priced. There’s one blazer I saw in there that still keeps me up at night – it was hot pink, which is a colour I knew I wouldn’t wear too much, but my friends at home berated me for not buying it for them instead! I also love vintage shopping in Texas and my hometown of Alabama, as the prices aren’t so steep and you can find some real gems. In the city, I love Mirth Vintage – they also have an online store if you can’t make it to New York.

My favourite vintage piece I’ve ever bought is a 90s Armani runway blazer, which I picked up for €12 in a thrift store in Toulouse. I spotted it out of the corner of my eye covered in dust and couldn’t believe my luck when I saw the price – I’ve worn it so much it’s starting to fall apart now, but I’ll probably take it to a tailor to get it replicated in another colour, as it’s such a great fit.

If I could only wear one brand again, it would be Phoebe Philo-era Céline, or Chloé when she was there, too. I grew up loving everything she designed, so I’m very excited for the launch of her own brand – it feels like a post-pandemic reward to have her back!

The best fashion gift I’ve ever given to someone was a Prada slip dress I found in Mirth Vintage, which was sadly far too small for me.I gave to my roommate, who I knew would totally rock it.

The best fashion gift I’ve ever received is some vintage Elsa Peretti earrings. I’ve long been obsessed with Elsa Peretti’s jewellery and dreamed of owning one of her pieces. My friends very kindly found a pair on Etsy and gave me them to me when she passed away – that was incredibly special. 

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