In between her busy schedule of curating Cruz Beckham's 18th birthday party in Dublin and styling shoots, former fashion editor and stylist Grace Cahill of Styled with Grace told us about her favourite fashion finds and shopping secrets, from her does-it-all coat to her wear-everywhere handbag.
Known for her soft romantic aesthetic and unique taste, Grace Cahill specialises in editorial, commercial and event styling, and has been working within the fashion space as a writer, editor and stylist for well over a decade.
Describing Styled with Grace as a daydream turned reality that fuses her two greatest joys, fashion and interiors, Grace has styled and directed cover shoots in Ireland, London, Paris and Los Angeles over the years.
Here, we get an exclusive glimpse into her enviable wardrobe.
How would you describe your personal style?
Dependant on the season. I’m a spring/summer girl at heart so my wardrobe comes alive in warm weather. In winter, I gravitate to warm cosy fabrics and come spring, all I want to wear are soft breathable fabrics like organic cotton and linens. A wafty maxi dress or printed wide-leg trouser in soft, warm tones are top of the list. The heart wants what it wants.
The go-to shoe/trainers
A Chelsea boot with snug socks when I’m walking the dogs, usually followed by a ballet pump for running around/school drop off and pick up.
The does-it-all coat
Again, it depends on the season. This time of year, a quilted print jacket/shacket slung over mom jeans or a denim midi skirt usually comes up trumps for early morning ease. It’s my go-to formula for feeling somewhat pulled together with minimal effort.
The perfect jeans
Straight leg and high waist in oatmeal, ecru or midnight black. In fact, I don’t think I own a pair of grey (blue) jeans. If I do, they’re in a dusty pile somewhere. If I’m spending, I love Reiss or Anine Bing denim, otherwise, Mango is my saving grace.
The must-have knitwear
Buttery soft and slouchy, usually in a twinset cardi and top or off-the-shoulder style. It’s probably the only fabric I’m fussy with because it’s uncomfortable when it’s not made well. I love Style Ignite, M&S cashmere, and H&M Conscious for neutral shades that you can mix and match and dress up or down easily.
The everyday jewellery
A gold pendant with my daughter’s name and birth date engraved on it, layered with my initials. I’ve loved (and lost) jewellery my entire life, so I can’t take it off because it’s too precious and will end up in the pocket of a jacket somewhere.
My engagement ring went missing during our big move in 2020 (a very sore subject). It was an oval gold morganite with diamonds on either side and the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. I miss it every day.
The wear-everywhere handbag
A chunky chain crossbody Prada and Miu Miu, which have both refunded me in cost per wear. I alternate depending on my mood and what I’m wearing but both of them are worn weekly and have been around the world and back with me.
The Sunday cosy casual look
It is completely mood dependent. A Breton top thrown over leggings from New Dimensions or if we have something planned, it tends to be a cosy knit dress or co-ord with a trench and knee-high boots.
The ultimate pyjamas
A gifted pair of organic cotton PJs from Yolke. The sartorial equivalent of a warm hug when you need it most.
The party look essential
It’s definitely a lot more casual since becoming a mum and has to have some element of comfort if I’m leaving the house for the evening. I’ll do one great party piece like a leather trouser or silky midi skirt elevated with jewellery and heels, dressed down with the snug comfort of a bodysuit or simple tee.
The most treasured piece
An off-the-shoulder dress by Borgo De Noir worn to my oldest friend’s wedding last year. I’ve never felt so good (or had as much fun) in anything.
The wishlist item
Right now it’s an embroidered jacket and skirt two piece from M.A.B.E. apparel or a dress (any dress) from the brand Wiggykit.
The vintage shop to know
In a fantasy world where you jump on a plane, Las Dahlias market in Ibiza is the happiest place on earth for one-off vintage. I still wear dresses bought on holiday in 2015/2016. It doesn’t compare with any store here, but if I had to choose, The Harlequin Vintage is my go-to. Once upon a time pre-Covid you could pop into her on Castle Market Street but now owner Fiona sells everything online. She has a great eye and a genuine passion for pre-loved clothes.
Who to follow for style on social media
I lean towards romantic bohemian brands and the kind of women who wear them. I’m a sucker for labels like Zimmermann, Johanna Ortiz, Spell, Sir the Label and Bec and Bridge – and follow Lisa Danielle, Zippy Seven and Vanessa Bruer who all navigate motherhood with easy, breezy, beautiful style.
I love Amber and Willow, Hygee for Home, Hannah Seabrook of Gada About, and Laura Jackson/Glassette for table scaping, interiors and escapism.
The beauty essentials / self-care ritual
I can’t function without a good cleanse and moisturise morning and evening. I love the Elemis Pro Collagen Cleanser followed by a rosehip serum by Trilogy, and the new Phyto Nature Cream from Dermalogica is a current bedside favourite. I’ll do an overnight mask once a week and treat myself to a facial at Cliff at Lyons every few months.
Make-up is minimal, much as I try to embrace it. I love Charlotte Tilbury’s Brow Lift, Pillow Talk Palette and all of her lipsticks, usually thrown on in a hurry if I have somewhere important to be.
Photography by Styled with Grace.
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