London-based fashion and lifestyle blogger Chloe Samwell-Smith is known for her fun personal style...
Just one look at her Instagram account (@chloelovestoshop) shows an inimitable knack for making high-street buys look designer and that accessories have a place in every mum’s wardrobe, (yes, even dangly earrings and mini handbags). We love women who showcase a realistic sense of style and shopping habits as busy mums so knew we had to delve a little deeper into Chloe’s wardrobe and go-to stores for some fresh inspiration for the new season ahead. Ready to shop?
Chloe wears dress and sandals from Greece and Anna + Nina basket bag, $96.70
What pieces are currently on high rotation in your wardrobe?
I have been in Greece for the last few weeks so it’s been all about the maxi dress. I love the ease of putting on one item, usually paired with a simple leather sandal and a basket bag. I love the femininity of long dresses.
Chloe wears Three Graces London dress
What was your last purchase?
A dress from Three Graces. An investment piece that I know I will be wearing for years to come.
Chloe wears Oysho bikini
What’s currently sitting in your wish list or online carts right now?
A new blazer and a beautiful pair of boots for Autumn/Winter (yet to be chosen), and a new pair of Golden Goose trainers. I have worn mine to death and really believe they are worth the investment. They are such elegant trainers and look so good with dresses.
What type of outfit do you wear when you’re with the kids?
In the autumn my go-to outfit is a great pair of jeans and a cashmere jumper with trainers, boots or loafers.
Chloe wears Pink City Prints dress, $231
Your favourite go-to date night outfit?
I love wearing dresses. As I wear jeans most of the week, I try to rest them for a night out and give a dress and a pair of heels an outing. I absolutely love getting ready for a night out. My children are a bit older now, so I really enjoy the getting ready part, and I think they do too! My girls love watching me do my make-up and hair and often help me decide what to wear. I can remember doing this with my mum, so it’s a lovely feeling to have their input. My youngest is a little boy and he will always say something very sweet as I walk down the stairs to reveal my finished look!
Chloe wears Harper Scout Beach dress, $156; Lily and Lionel dress, $328; Rae Feather bag, $233 and 9Seed dress, $143
Can you name your top 3 online retailers and why?
For high street I don’t think you can beat Zara, although I do think one has to be a little bit selective in terms of quality. I tend to avoid anything with embellishment and embroidery from the high street and try to reinforce buttons as they tend to be the first things that go. I really love H&M as a one stop shop for the children’s clothes, tasteful and inexpensive interiors finds and I can always find something for me. I am huge fan of Sezane for mid-range pieces and for higher end pieces, Net-A-Porter and The Outnet are my go-to sites. I often look at Net-a-Porter for outfit inspiration.
Do you have a shopping plan each season or buy on a whim?
I definitely don’t have a shopping plan, I am not that organised! But I do try to think about the gaps in my wardrobe or if any of the classic basics need to be updated. For example, I know that my favourite white shirt has a stain which won’t budge, so that will need replacing as every wardrobe needs a good white shirt. Most of the time though, I buy on a whim. Clothes talk to me…sometimes they even scream at me from across a shop floor!
Chloe wears H&M dress and Rae Feather bag, $313
Who’s your ultimate style icon and why?
I really love Olivia Palermo’s style and would quite happily swap wardrobes with the French blogger, Audrey Lombard. Her style is impeccable.
Has motherhood changed your sense of style? If so, how?
I don’t think it’s motherhood, per se, but I think my style has evolved with age. I seem to be less swayed by fashionable trends and tend to stick to the classics these days. I’ve become much more discerning and try to avoid buying clothes that aren’t made of natural fibres.
Chloe wears Leon & Harper dress, $266
Any styling hacks or shopping secrets to share?
If I buy something and don’t wear it immediately it’s usually a sign that it’s not quite right and it should go back. Styling hacks, I always like to emphasise my waist, either by tucking in a bit of a top or jumper at the front or by belting a looser fitting dress. At 5’4 I find midi length dresses quite hard to wear, so I will always look to see if I can find the same dress in the ‘Tall Section’ and hey presto, you have a maxi! I think it’s worth finding a good seamstress who can alter clothes. Taking trousers up even an inch can make the world of difference to an outfit.