We’ve been digging through the closets of our fave celebs, finding out the secrets behind some of their most iconic looks. From where they get their inspiration, to their favourite places to shop, we’ve asked the stars all the burning questions you’ve ever wanted answers to.
This week VIP caught up with photographer and Instagram sensation Marianne Smyth.
Marianne, thank you for chatting with VIP magazine. Readers may know you from your Instagram @smythsisters… tell us about starting this and the amazing reaction people have had to you and what you do.
Thank you for having me. Yes, I’ve dabbled in Instagram on and off for the past number of years but only really focused on my content from last September. I grew from 6k to 280k in little over a year so it was a shock to the system at first. Having said that I couldn’t be more grateful working full- time, doing something I love. I feel very lucky, especially in these uncertain times.
You worked professionally as a photographer, but is style your one true love? Perhaps they go hand in hand in how you envision looks, colours and the content you create for your social media?
I did work as a photographer and I have a degree in Fine and Applied Art. I’d have used photography as my main medium for my paintings and so my love for the camera started from there. To be honest my Instagram page definitely is not a reflection of my style of photography. I found once I stripped back the content on @smythsisters and focused on the clothes rather than the creative content it worked better for me. They definitely go hand in hand however, as I feel I have an eye for what works.
What was the first time you ever remember feeling empowered in an outfit?
My go to out t at the moment is a long wool coat, roll neck jumper, cigarette pants paired with my chunky boots and black The Row bag. [The Row is Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s luxury fashion brand]. I’m at my most comfortable and still look chic so to me it definitely gives off an empowered vibe.
Your style is a lesson in flawless, timeless dressing. What do you look for when adding new additions to your wardrobe?
I shop mainly high street but I do have a few investment pieces. It’s all about fabric and cut, looking for those great quality pieces. If the shape isn’t quite perfect on me I now get my pieces tailored. Those are the pieces I find myself gravitating towards in my wardrobe because they fit my body and my shape the way I want. I always size up on my knitwear; slightly oversized always looks expensive on.
What three pieces will you be adding to your collection this winter?
Chunky black Bottega boots and a great quality wool coat. Honestly I’d be lost without my coat selection! To me they complete an out t. Lastly, I’m still deciding on a new bag for my 30th. I take my time on investment pieces as I know I’m going to have them forever. Hopefully one day I can pass them down to my little girl.
Your favourite websites to shop on?
Arket, & Other Stories and Cos, they are all timeless and such great quality. I also love a good browse on Net-A- Porter. I love finding new brands on there.
Tips for online shopping when trying to decipher sizing?
I tend to find the information on the model and work it out from there. If a jumper looks like it’s oversized on a 6ft model then I normally go true to size. Sometimes it’s just trial and error!
One style rule you never forget?
That there are no rules! Wear what makes YOU feel comfortable and most importantly makes YOU feel good.
Favourite places to shop for your children?
I absolutely love Zara. Kids grow so fast so the price point is accessible and I always find the quality is great. I also love the odd special piece from sites like arket.com and smallable.com.
For the dressed down days – what are your go-to’s?
An oversized cashmere jumper, a pair of jeans and my Acne trainers. I feel my comfiest in jeans!
Where do you shop for your wool knits and cashmeres?
Arket, Samsoe, and Cos are my favourite. The quality is amazing.
So often our shoes can add impact to our outfit. What are the shoes or brands of shoes you are living in?
Bottega boots, my DM Shoes, my & Other Stories heeled boots, and my Acne trainers. I’ve been wearing them on rotation recently.
Now that we are yet again spending more time at home, what are your tips for keeping our wardrobes organised?
Once my summer clothes are stored away, I have an area for jumpers, shirts, t-shirts, tops and trousers. Then a separate place for my shoes and bags. It allows me to build my out t step by step by working in sections. I also go through my wardrobe every few months to find the pieces I know I’m not wearing, pass them on to friends and family and also to charity.