My Style: Elinor Nystedt
Portrait: Courtesy of Elinor Nystedt
Please describe your style in three words.
Unisex. Eclectic. Evolving.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not getting dressed at all! :) No, actually, nothing. I think making mistakes is part of how personal style and fashion evolve: people dare and try new and unexpected ways of dressing. Sometimes, it's also coincidence that takes an outfit to another direction than the intended one.
Do you believe in role models?
I believe that you, or at least I do, get my inspiration from a lot of things from all over the world, there's such a big flow of inspiration currently. You can get bits and bytes from many fantastic people that share their lives online.
What are your favourite fabrics?
It's something that comes and goes, but right now I like leather, wool and materials with different effects which are glossy or mate, have reflections, and so on. Also, denim and cotton are always my favourites.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Not really. As I said before, it's how fashion evolves—when people dare and try new style combinations. The way you dress is part of the search for your personal identity.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Stockholm! This is what everyone says when they come here. Everyone in the street dresses really nice in general. You don't have to look hard to be inspired and see stylish people!
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Neither. Conservative pieces can be styled in a bold way or the other way around.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
I have no rules. I've tried throughout the years to streamline my wardrobe but I’ve given up! I feel that it would be boring and obstructive. I mostly look for a specific kind of shape or silhouette when I get dressed that matches how I feel, and then I put together items to create that outfit. Sometimes it's just simply myself putting on clothes.
Celebrities and style...
Does not have, by default, anything to do with each other.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Big oversized men's jackets! I love them.
A woman should always look like…
However she wants to!
Who taught you what you know about style?
Everyone and no one.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I go for what I feel for. And I can wear the same things during day and night.
What is your biggest regret?
No regrets.
The three essential things a woman should know about style are…
To sum it up: style has nothing to do with brands and/or money!
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Shopping today is not an actual necessity to a lot of the people in this world, so it's driven by emotions and feelings. This applies a little bit to me, however currently I am trying to buy less items and in a more thoughtful way.
We will never see you wearing...
Nothing, and this has a dual meaning. [laughs]
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Vetements is very interesting and relevant right now. I really like their expression and how they communicate the brand and the imagery they are using. Maybe it's because they are very close to my own inspiration references (which I always seem to return to) and the way I like to dress. I like Marques Almeida, their take on denim and how they use that material to create something contemporary and relevant. Y Project is definitely a brand that I have my eye on. Also, don’t miss HAAL, a small Swedish brand, I think it looks great. And Nhu Duong are doing exciting stuff.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
Wow. That's hard to answer. There are so many people and from different scenes.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
I love women in general! I would say their entire look, their eyes, face, clothes, energy, and so on. That's the first thing you see until you meet the actual person. Personality can change it all in five minutes and what you get from meeting them is the real woman behind the look.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
I try not to get attached to things in general or connect them with true happiness. I also think you should really wear your stuff. Having said that, there are of course some jewellery pieces that I got from my mom and grandmother that I would be sad if I lost.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
A picture of the universe. Open space, endless, free, evolving, exciting, unexpected, and full of contrasts.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Phoebe Philo, Ann-Sofie Back, and right now Vetements and Weekday are doing a really good job!
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all. Feeling comfortable in what your wear has a lot to do with style, what feelings you want to express and what you project to others. You should dress for yourself, feel confident and be comfortable with your outfit. It's easily noticeable if you're not.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Ann-Sofie Back, one of Sweden's most appreciated designers who always goes her own way. Paul Hameline, a DJ, model, actor, Vetements muse, and artist from France. Samuel Drira, founder of Encens magazine and creative director of Nehera from Paris.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
I really love clichés: carpe diem and a new version of “yolo”. :) Just try to get the most and best out of the life you're so lucky to have. Be curious and keep an open heart.
