IN CONVERSATION WITH ERIN O'CONNOR MBE

IN CONVERSATION WITH

ERIN O'CONNOR MBE

British supermodel and face of the Foundations campaign, Erin O’Connor MBE, reveals her foundations for style, family, life and everything in between.

On the foundations of life…

In short, it’s the three Bs – my boys, baths and bedtime! In the style stakes, shoes aplenty and good tailoring never go amiss. I also ritually incorporate weightlifting sessions in the gym, balanced out with the occasional Terry’s Chocolate Orange as a treat!

On the evolution of her style…

My ideal style is colourful, un-coordinated and freestyle. In terms of evolution, these days it must now always be flexible enough to play football in – Mummy is usually in goal!

On investment pieces…

A great suit never goes out of fashion and is a key staple in my wardrobe. Equally important are coats – it never matters what you wear under an elaborate beautiful coat. Whatever I buy, I buy for life, suitable for every decade of my life.

On the impact of children…

I’m over 6ft tall and in their younger years wanted to make sure that I looked happy and approachable, which influenced a lot of cuddly materials. What is really wonderful is that as they have grown up, my boys are quite helpful in the style stakes and are very direct in what works and what doesn’t. My eldest is a dab hand at styling me for red carpets – he likes to have his say!

On the Foundations collection…

I loved the white polo neck and white tailored trousers look. The polo neck is a fine, exquisite knit (which you can never have too many of!) and the trousers are smart but slouchy and comfortable all at once.

On her first JOSEPH piece…

When I was 17 years old, I was in the South Kensington shop and bought myself a pair of black trousers. I had become familiar with the word ‘Joseph’ very quickly – it seemed to me to be a models staple, as well as for women around me in general. I was proud that I had to save up to buy them. This was closely followed by a much-coveted camel coat. I’ve still got them both!

On the best style advice…

Don’t follow trends, wear your own style well – the best advice given from me, to me!

On her fashion icons…

It has to be Tilda Swinton and Bobbie Gillespie. Tilda because she is the epitome of refined androgynous style and Bobbie because he is the King of Rock’n’Roll!

On her inspirations…

I’m inspired by my origins. Returning to Ballycastle Beach twice yearly is my go-to tonic. It is still wild and remains preserved and untouched. There is something so special about it, which I will never stop appreciating.