Stylist Laura Jordan on her favourite fashion finds

A Dublin based image consultant and owner of Ireland’s only full service style consultancy — StyleSavvy — Laura Jordan specialises in personal shopping and styling for both private and media clients, as well as personal branding and professional image consultations. Here, we get an exclusive glimpse into her enviable wardrobe.

How would you describe your personal style?

Clothes are a form of expression for me, as well as being the vehicle through which we work at StyleSavvy. I would say that my style is simple with some quirky elements; I would wear jeans, a white tee and a leather jacket to a wedding if I could! I love bright accessories and let these be the main talking points of my outfits. I have always disliked having the same products as others, since I was a child. I love mixing high street and high end and love a bargain. I refuse to keep anything for ‘good’, as I am a strong advocate of cost-per-wear, both for myself and my clients.

The go-to shoe/trainers

I love trainers and wear them a lot. I choose Golden Goose most often, my favourite are the shearling style which have removable lining and allow for sockless feet all year round! I love Zadig and Voltaire Boots for evening and anything backless for the rest of the year… Birks, loafers, etc.

The does-it-all coat

An oversize, drop-shoulder, double-breasted wool coat with large buttons is my ultimate – either hitting the thigh or below the knee, depending on preference. Whether you choose Maxmara or Zara, stick to this cut and it will allow dresses to be worn in a smart casual way, while also elevating a simple jumper and jeans. Also, look out for a herringbone weave when you examine the wool up close, it tends to look more expensive and require less de-pilling.

The perfect jeans

Denim and jewellery are my two favourite style elements. My perfect pair is a midrise slim boyfriend jean from Zara, which I have had repaired twice. Anytime they come into stock I feel like putting an ad in the paper! I like a consistent wash with no bleaching where possible (tends to be less flattering on the leg and also distracts the other elements of your outfit) and I always make sure the jeans I choose for myself and for clients have as few ‘whiskers’ as possible, these are the horizontal bleach lines found along the thighs of many designs.

The must-have knitwear

My most worn knits are a selection of black polo necks, which are €10 from Dunnes Stores. They are my go-to with a smart pair of jeans and a loafer or heeled boot. Wear under a blazer or leather jacket, depending on the occasion and you are ready to go. It is a failsafe ‘work uniform’ of sorts for me when I’m busy. For thicker knits, I like Cos.

The everyday jewellery

My attitude to jewellery is ‘more is more’. I find it the most interesting element of any person’s outfit and am a magpie by nature. I wear multiple bracelets every day, including two bangles made from my Nana’s gold by Robert Tobin on Pleasants Street, Dublin 2, which are very special to me. I love the noise of bangles. I have some Chanel and Dior vintage pieces that I adore, bought in consignment stores in Paris, but my most-worn brand is Betty and Biddy. Almost all of my earrings and necklaces are from them, I layer and chop and change regularly. Their selection is second to none.

The wear-everywhere handbag

My best handbag purchase has been the YSL Camera Lou in black. I bought it 18 months ago and did not expect to use it all year round, for every occasion, however, it provides a great contrast to a summer look, just as it works perfectly with heavier fabrics of winter. It’s deceptively spacious and the zip makes it quicker and easier to use on the go, compared to other designs which have press-button closures and flaps etc. Many of my clients have purchased it too, after noting how many things I can fit inside when we are shopping!

The Sunday cosy casual look

Casual days are a treat, as they are the exception to my outfits during the week, rather than the norm! I love a cosy sweatshirt from American Vintage, with some boyfriend jeans rolled up at the ankle and my shearling Birkenstock Boston clogs. Cosy socks and a beanie are added if it’s cold, but the concept stays the same!

The ultimate pyjamas

My aunt bought me a pair of pyjamas from John Lewis for Christmas and they are beautifully soft. I also received a Cos set from a friend, which are excellent quality. The White Company are great too, especially their cashmere socks.

The party look essential

For me, this is a black tuxedo jacket, ideally with satin lapels and buttons. You can find these in many French brands like Maje, Zadig and Voltaire and Kooples, as well as high street stores like Zara and Reiss. It can be worn over a white tee, a silk camisole, or any other evening-style top, while also looking sharp over a white shirt for a midweek meeting. We are passionate about re-wear potential at StyleSavvy and want purchases to have as many functions as possible for our clients, nothing gets to stay in the wardrobe for long!

The most treasured piece

My jewellery represents my most treasured items, aside from that it would be my Louis Vuitton Neverfull, which I bought five years ago. It was the first designer bag I ever bought and I treasure it as a symbol of my business beginning to succeed. I saved for six months to buy it and headed into the store with a bewildering mix of cash, card and store points! I will always see it as a symbol of hard work and determination.

The wishlist item

I was searching for a vintage Cartier watch for a long time and purchased one before Christmas, so my wishlist is now on the more practical side for spring/summer. I love the Bash new collection and have my eye on a padded denim jacket and belted straight jeans. I have been looking at Devotion Twins kaftans as well, as I have a holiday coming up. Some Annie Lu bracelets to add to my wrist and I’ll be set!

The vintage shop to know

I believe that consignment stores are the future of smart shopping, for many reasons. Similar to vintage, but without the need for the items to be from a previous era, consignment stores sell pre-loved items, typically designer or high-end high street, and the best stores are carefully curated, so you are not overwhelmed with product. Cobbler’s Wardrobe in Sandymount is the best to know in Ireland, Hollie Creedon has an incredible eye and a beautiful edit.

Who to follow for style on social media

Charlotte Collins, editor of Sheerluxe for her trend-driven smart casual workwear. Emma Lou Connolly for effortless, yet individual style. Sydney-based stylist Angie Smith, who is the best example of simple basics there is. In Ireland, I admire a lot of women who work in or around the fashion industry, including Hollie Creedon of Cobbler’s Wardrobe, Jess Hopkins of Belmont Events and Fiona Fitzsimons of Betty and Biddy, who rarely share their style online, but are a source of inspiration for me, as people who consistently look well every day as they live their lives; it’s what we work hard to achieve for our clients.

The beauty essentials / self-care ritual

I’ve recently put more effort into skincare and go to Rosaleen Proudfoot at Beacon Skin and Dermatology. I love the SkinNerd cleanse off mitt paired with Cerave cleanser, Kielhs SPF and retinol serum and Obaji moisturiser. I use a Drunk Elephant mask once a week and SkinGym cryoballs every few days for a de-puff treat. Self-care for me has become outdoor exercise early in the morning, a post-Covid addition to my routine before the day begins and my focus turns to work.

This article was originally published in May 2023.