I’m delighted to return with STYLE MATTERS my popular women’s interviews from the stylish world of Instagram. Michelle is someone I have followed for many years, who showcases her gorgeous and affordable styling; Michelle is just perfect to kick start the next series of STYLE MATTERS interviews!
Michelle is 49 and a married mum of two boys. living in the Cambridgeshire area. A Senior Lawyer heading up a Legal Service and in her spare time can be found on Instagram, as maison_abbott posting daily outfits and sharing her love from high street, pre-loved and a smattering of designer pieces.
We both hope you enjoy the interview
Love Lizzi x
How do you describe your personal style?
I’d say that my style is pretty classic with a modern twist. I can be a bit of a style chameleon – I really enjoy experimenting with new looks, but I know what suits me, so I feel fairly confident to do that.
Why does style matter to you?
It matters to me because it’s an expression not only of personality but also of confidence. A great outfit can lift your mood, change the way you approach your day and make you feel confident about yourself.
Have you always been interested in style?
Yes, always. My love of fashion started when I was very young (I wanted to be a fashion designer but life took me down a different path!), I enjoyed the process of putting outfits together, and in my teens I would take clothes apart to see how they were made, cut my own patterns and design and make my own clothes.
What would be your signature style look?
I love a midi or maxi dress with a pair of trainers and a blazer (I like to mix pattern and texture for interest) – although it’s a look you see often – but it’s so easy to wear.
What’s your view on fashion vs. style?
I don’t follow fashion as such – yes I keep an eye on current trends, but essentially style is something from within – and transcends ‘fashion’.
What tips do you have on fashion or styling
- Only wear clothes which fit, flatter and suit you – you should wear the clothes – not the other way around.
- If you don’t love something, (and if it doesn’t tick the above boxes), don’t buy it
- Have the confidence to try something different, but once you find your style, you’ll develop your wardrobe around that and always have the pieces which are right for you.
Has the exposure of fast fashion changed how you shop?
I admit to going through a bit of a reckless phase with my shopping – and bought things I knew weren’t 100% right – never returned them and ended up with unworn clothes. This was a long time ago and was irresponsible and unnecessary! Nowadays, I am very aware of the impact of fast fashion – and buy a lot of pre loved items, sell things myself and give to charity regularly. I do have a lot of clothes but I wear them – and have regular purges to make sure that’s the case! I also look for brands with sustainable credentials when shopping – Instagram is fabulous for that!
What have you implemented into your own wardrobe management to help contribute towards sustainable fashion?
I try to do my bit with regards to sustainability and regularly sift through my wardrobe, either selling, giving to charity or friends, pieces which I don’t wear or really need. I also love to ‘shop my wardrobe’ and find new ways to style pieces, creating new outfits from the things I already own. I hate the idea of buying something to only wear it once – it has to have multiple uses to pass my purchase test!
What are your favourite stores to shop (bricks or clicks)?
Marks and Spencer for quality basics and well priced wardrobe updates, The Outnet for a high end treat at a fabulous affordable price, and Whistles for classic, statement dresses and separates. Oh, and of course I absolutely love a pre-loved gem – Timpany’s and Deuxieme are a couple of brilliant stores.
What do you own that you will never ever give away?
My beloved denim jacket from Gap (it’s about 18 years old), my Chanel bag and my first ever ‘designer’ bag which is my little Burberry tote.
You can follow Michelle on Instagram at @maison_abbott
The post STYLE MATTERS – BY MICHELLE FROM @MAISON_ABBOTT was on Loved by Lizzi first.
