Style Spotlight: Laura Vidrequin
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I was a fashion buyer for more than ten years. I got my first job in the fashion industry at 18 and moved from Paris to New York to take up a wholesale assistant position at Balmain, and then Joseph. I was lucky enough to join Moda Operandi and then Ralph Lauren later.
The way I dress is best described as ‘throw on and go’. I have a real passion for denim, as well as anything vintage or pre-loved. Being constantly on-the-go, my everyday go-tos need to be easy and versatile. You’ll often find me in jeans, a crew neck sweater and a t-shirt. I definitely feel most at home in vintage 501’s, a grey crew neck and my favourite navy Ralph Lauren vintage jacket.
The denim brands and styles I love include Khaite for their high waisted fit, as well as vintage Levis 501s – I enjoy scouring vintage shops to find the perfect pair. I try to always shop denim second hand. The amount of carbon dioxide used to create the perfect wash is mind blowing.
I am really good at repurposing older clothes – and even better at not planning what I want to buy. I often walk by Portobello market on the weekends and find some really great pieces there. Most recently, I got a white t-shirt with palm trees embroidered on it. I think it was from the 80s and has probably had multiple lives before me. I also love Imparfaite. I’m always on the lookout for vintage shops when I travel – it’s amazing what you can find.
As for lesser-known brands, I love the menswear label Bode. They produce one-of-a-kind upcycled and vintage-inspired clothing, and everything is tailor-made in New York. Also, Lukhanyo Mdingi is a brand that collaborates with artisans and communities on timeless premium pieces – while providing them with a platform to raise awareness of their heritage.
I’ll usually invest a little more in wardrobe staples. Simple things like a plain white t-shirt that I know I will wear a million times is definitely worth spending money on. Also, pieces that make me emotionally happy. I invested in a Gabriela Hearst sweater a few weeks ago and I’m so proud to support her designs, and those she created for Chloé. Like with Kids O'clock, we’re not trying to undermine creatives or designers. We’re trying to highlight the importance of repurposing older or no longer used items.
I launched my own business two years ago. Having worked in retail buying for more than a decade, I saw firsthand how easy it was to over-forecast. Having excess stock leads to so much waste, and it never sat well with me. After I had my son, I was shocked how quickly he grew out of his clothes – which was when I realised there was a huge gap in the market for pre-loved children’s clothes. I’d always been into shopping second hand for myself, so it seemed like a natural next step. I wanted to create a safe and cool destination for parents to shop and sell their kids items, and that’s exactly what Kids O’Clock is.
There are a few things I’m on the lookout for right now – a loud The Elder Statesman cashmere sweater, vintage Chloé jeans, a polka dot Dolce & Gabbana dress for weddings and summer events and some Gabriela Hearst shoes – all pre-loved, of course. Vestiaire Collective and The RealReal are always great for sourcing these kinds of things.
I always admire when someone is at ease and confident about their personal style. Love a pink patent flatform? Embrace it. Trends are great, but having your own sense of individuality is so much cooler.
My favourite piece in my wardrobe is a tobacco suede fringe jacket I found at Portobello vintage market. It just works with everything – over a dress, a tee, high-waisted denim. It’s the perfect transitional piece.
Follow @LauraVidrequin
Photography Alicia Waite
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