Meet the London-based Dubliner with the dream collection of streetwear and vintage

Y2K throwbacks paired with ahead-of-the-curve styling make Emma Louise Tighe’s wardrobe one that we’re coveting this week

Emma Louise Tighe has the type of inimitable personal style that would make you do a double-take on the street.

The London-based Irish transplant has a keen knowledge of fashion, evident in her ahead-of-the-curve penchant for trends. The 27-year-old was wearing cycling shorts – even metallic ones – long before they became the cool-girl uniform du jour.

With a soft spot for 1990s vintage staples, here’s where the Personal Assistant gets her inspiration, the type of Instagram shops she looks to for an unusual outfit (duly noted) and the vintage unicorn – a Prada bucket hat – that she’s forever lusting over.

What makes you excited about getting dressed in the morning?

Pulling looks together is super fun. I love planning outfits, even if it’s just for dinner on a Thursday night. I definitely have more fun with it in the summer months, especially when there are so many events and festivals going on. I would say what most excites me is when I find inspiration in something and can make it my own.

What’s your failsafe, go-to look for a day when you’re lacking inspiration?

At the moment, it is definitely cycling shorts paired with mules, an open shirt (worn loose and off the shoulder), layered gold jewellery and a 90s shoulder bag.

Last piece you bought?

Classic F print sunnies by Fendi.

What’s a typical ‘off duty’ look for you?

As much as I love glam looks, I love being able to run around in my trainers. At the moment my ‘off duty’ look would include my Nike M2K Teknos or 97s paired with shorts and a blazer – or my Eytys, jeans and a crop top. Belt bags are also an ‘off duty’ essential for me.

The first piece you saved all your pocket money for?

When I was younger, myself and a friend saved up for a trip down to Kilkenny to shop in Folkster’s vintage section. I remember buying an 80s one piece that I really loved!

Where do you shop usually?

My shopping habits are quite broad. I try to mix things up between designer, high street and vintage bits. Until recently, I worked at Net-A-Porter, so that would be my go-to place for designer pieces. In terms of high street, Zara, Mango and ASOS would be my go to’s, particularly for shoes and Arket is great for classic staples. I also love ‘Insta shops’ like My Mum Made It, I AM GIA and R U V E. London is great for its vintage shops; Somewhere In Hackney is a personal fave.

If you have something big coming up, where do you look for a killer outfit?

I would try various Insta shops to try get something a bit different.

What do you do with your fashion purchases when you no longer need them?

I tend to keep my purchasing to pieces I really love, so my clear outs are not that often, but when I do, I tend to pass on to friends and then donate the rest.

Last outfit you’d wear on earth?

Anything from the Fendi SS19 show; it was full of cycling shorts, utility bags and perspex.

Best ever bargain purchase?

A vintage YSL high cut swimsuit from Nine Crows Street. I bought it five years ago and it’s still one of my favourites.

Favourite fashion memory?

I’d say my favourite fashion memories would be holiday beach party looks. I am obsessed with swimwear.

Designer you’d wear all the time if you won the Lotto?

I can’t just pick one!  Alexander Wang, Fendi and Jacquemus would be my top three.

Where do you seek style inspiration?

Instagram for sure. Some of my favourite girls to follow at the minute are @Josefinehj, @love_aesthetics, @killla.kate & @Heir.

Trend you’d never be caught dead in?

Never say never — I wouldn’t write off any look.

Trend you’d wear ‘til the cows come home?

Classic 90s looks.

One thing that’s been on your wishlist forever?

A classic mini Louis Vuitton 90s shoulder bag or a Prada bucket hat.

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