Designer Linda Farrow On Her Personal Style Rules

My personal style is best summed up by these three words: elegant, timeless, daring. I was deeply inspired by the Bauhaus movement, a perfect fusion of beauty and practicality. I wanted to do the same and revolutionise the eyewear industry, turning frames from functional accessories into practical fashion statements. This still influences our design ethos at Linda Farrow to this day, where my son, Simon Jablon, continues the business and designs statement but timeless eyewear that empowers people. 

My wardrobe has strong foundations. I believe in a crisp white shirt, tailored trousers, vintage silk scarves and, of course, some oversized sunglasses – the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. These staples have been with me since the 70s and never lost their relevance.

Elegance often lies in restraint, not excess. For me, this means tailored clothes, high-quality fabrics, neutral tones and silhouettes that compliment your body and can be worn across seasons. I would also include well-crafted and quality accessories, such as sunglasses, shoes or a belt. A capsule wardrobe should be timeless and reflect your personality and who  you are to the world. To create an effortless yet polished look, mix structure with softness, then anchor it with a standout accessory. 

I believe in investing in the pieces you wear every day because those are the ones that truly need to stand the test of time. When cared for properly, well-crafted items can last a lifetime. Craftsmanship is worth every penny where it matters, whether it's a beautifully tailored garment, a leather handbag or a timeless watch. I've always admired designers who create beautiful pieces while still valuing the craftsmanship involved in making a garment – for example, Dries Van Noten, The Row and vintage Yves Saint Laurent and vintage Céline for quiet sophistication. I was very honoured when our brand collaborated with Dries Van Noten for some bold, sophisticated and timeless sunglasses.