Marielle Wyse, founder of cult fashion brand Wyse London, shares the outfits she will pack for a five-star festive country hotel getaway (travel steamer non-negotiable!)
‘Nothing stops me from dressing for comfort these days but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice looking smart. I’d be happy to arrive at a lovely country hotel dressed in my Wyse green parka with wool lining, that sees me through any cold day with style. I’d leave the jeans at home but would wear some cord trousers which are semi-smart. I’m a big fan of layering in winter – a long-sleeved stripy top under one of my chunky high neck or fair isle jumpers makes a perfect festive statement.
‘For me everything is about texture, so for dinner I would go for a sequin skirt but avoid it becoming OTT by wearing with a cashmere cardi.
‘I avoid black against my face, it’s unkind and drags you down at a certain age. Our metallic blouses are bestsellers because they illuminate the face. Fabric with lustre and luminosity is so flattering – keep the dead black to your bottom half.
‘A smart coat is important. I’m loving our herring tweed pea coat; just keep everything underneath neutral and it will look chic.
‘I’m not a big, sparkly costume jewellery fan. I only wear gold from Van Cleel and Arpels and tiny diamonds. It’s about quality over quantity now and I often wear the same pieces every day.
‘As I’ve got older, I’ve discovered eyeliner – deep aubergine from Trish McEvoy is my perfect shade – and I’ve learned how to do the perfect smoky eye.
‘I’ve also been using Lumigan eyelash serum, as my lashes were non-existent and curling was making them worse. I’ve had to stop using it as my lashes are so long! It’s amazing but you can only buy it after a consultation.
‘My case is as important as what I put in it. I adore AWAY luggage. I have a navy carry on and am tempted to buy the olive. They do matching bags which slot onto the case – I can’t do without mine.’
