In Conversation with.. Lily Russo

As part of the Grazia Style Studio tour, we chatted to Fashion Stylist Lily Russo on her style icons, her favourite investment pieces for SS17, and her top tips for styling.

What are you wearing at the moment?

As soon as the days get brighter and warmer I naturally want to wear more dresses. It’s still a little chilly so I've been wearing black fishnets instead of opaques which I prefer as they aren’t as heaving worn under more fluid and summer dresses – and I like the contrast too.

Who's your style icon?

There isn't just one person that I have looked to over the years for inspiration but I have to say I love looking at old pictures of Cher from the seventies – I would happily wear one of her sparkly, feathered gowns every day! My mother's love of fashion is how I ended up wanting a career in fashion and, from an early age, I loved seeing her getting dressed up and rummaging through all her boxes of jewellery and belts - not to mention borrowing her shoes and bags!

What item of clothing do you spend the most on?

The high street has always made great shoes but - when it comes to handbags that’s where I would say I spend the most. A great handbag will last for years and can make evening the most boring of outfits look chic. Luckily with 60% off designer brands at McArthurGlen you can get a real investment piece - minus the investment price tag.

What is your favourite piece of clothing in your wardrobe?

At the moment I would say my Chanel ballet pumps. I splashed out on them a couple of years ago. I like that they are in a red tweed that is quite rare so I never see anyone wearing the same pair.

What is the most expensive item in your wardrobe?

It would have to be my Louis Vuitton handbag. It’s in the classic monogram - and is the perfect size.

What has been your biggest fashion faux pas?

I went through a phase a few years ago of being obsessed with Rihanna's style. I bought a pair of pvc basketball shorts - that she’d designed as part of a collaboration. As you can imagine I have NEVER worn them.

Who is your favourite designer?

Again, it’s hard to choose just one, I love so many for different reasons but one of my favourites is Alessandra Rich. She makes beautiful evening dresses but it’s always the way that she styles them that captivates me the most.

Which is your favourite high street store?

Hobbs is great for winter coats or summer dresses and I always gravitate to LK Bennett for timeless boots or occasion shoes.

What did your mum teach you about fashion?

My mum would always dress my sister and I in bright printed clothing. She has always believed that the colours you wear can affect your mood - which is why we were always in clashing colours and patterns. She encouraged us to be expressive and wear what we wanted and not just to follow trends - and also to appreciate beautiful clothing. From a young age we understood the craftsmanship behind a Missoni knit or a handmade shoe - which is probably where my fashion obsession began.

What’s your top tip for styling the Future Club trend?

Use denim as the key pillar for this look then add in pops of colour accessorising with black.

Find out more about the Grazia Style Studio Here.