Style Rules: Raquel Martin
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@RAQUELMARTINC
My style is best described as comfortable, practical and simple. I love cycling and walking, so I have to dress functionally. I’m always looking for simple and versatile pieces that can be styled easily. My outfits are mostly a mix of Scandi minimalism, with a couple of bohemian details that reflect my Spanish heritage.
More isn’t always more. Since I started to embrace the idea of owning fewer clothes but focusing more on quality, I find I’m far more satisfied. When you’re thinking about buying something new, it’s important to think about whether it’ll work with the existing items in your wardrobe and if the quality is good enough to last.
Invest in timeless pieces. Really think about whether the piece you’re buying is a fleeting trend or something that will transcend the seasons – that’s the key to a functional wardrobe. You can’t go wrong with neutrals either. They really are the easiest way to make an outfit look chic and pulled together, especially if the pieces are real classics. I love juxtaposing the masculine pieces in my wardrobe with more feminine ones – good style is all about balance, so experiment and find what suits you best.
Find confidence in a daily uniform. Most of the pieces I own are easy to style in different ways for different occasions, so I’m rarely stuck for something to wear. At this time of year, all you really need is a long wool coat, tailored trousers, a cashmere rollneck, winter boots and a cashmere beanie. One of my favourite day-to-night combinations is a classic coat layered over a blazer and a feminine shirt, teamed with straight jeans and boots. In the evening, simply change into heels – the best thing you can do is not to overthink things.
Combine different textures to add interest. Neutrals can become boring if you’re not careful, but mixing up different materials and silhouettes will make a monochrome outfit feel more sophisticated. For example, a cashmere coat with a poplin shirt and V-neck knit, plus a pair of leather pants and loafers makes for a great everyday look. Switch out the loafers for a kitten heel and add a necklace for the evening.
@RAQUELMARTINC
@RAQUELMARTINC
Shop at brands that reflect your personal values. One of my favourites is Totême – its oversized silhouettes and high-quality pieces are so chic. A trench I bought from it last year might be my favourite piece in my wardrobe. I also place a lot of importance on sustainability, so I try to buy from environmentally responsible brands where possible. One I love is Denmark’s Skall Studio – its pieces are made from natural materials, but they’re so chic.
Only make considered purchases. I’ve been a big supporter of resale site Vestiaire Collective since it launched. It gives clothes and accessories that might otherwise have ended up in landfill a second life. If you carefully think about your purchases, you won’t have any regrets.
Know the power of great accessories. At the moment, I’ve got an evening clutch from Totême and a silver necklace and earrings from Lié Studio on my wish list – they’ll work well with everything in my wardrobe. I’m also really attached to my Chanel bag because it was my first luxury purchase. That said, the one piece I couldn’t live without has to be my Cartier watch. It was given to me by my boyfriend, so it’s very special.
Make good use of the Instagram ‘Saves’ function. It’s such a useful (and free) tool to fall back on if you’re in a style rut. I save everything – from outfits to travel inspo, home décor to dream restaurants. The images I come back to time and again include those of twins Amalie and Cecilie Moosgaard Nielsen, as well as Leia Sfez and Ellen Claesson.
Keep things simple. It might seem obvious, but it really is the secret to good style. It all comes down to feeling good in what you’re wearing – and if you want to mix it up, you can always work on and refine the combinations you know work with your lifestyle.
@RAQUELMARTINC
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