26 JUNE 2013 | STYLE

Lucia Tait is the Senior Stylist at Moda Operandi, charged with assisting the site’s top clients from the US to Asia. Simply put, her job is to help create the perfect wardrobe – one full of key style statements and classic pieces that work together to give immaculate, easy to pull together looks. In addition to working one-on-one online with clients, Lucia runs Salon Moda, a by-appointment only private styling space in Moda’s Soho, New York headquarters, along with Amanda Sheppard. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, she’s also an avid traveler. All of which makes her the perfect person to speak to about the chicest approach to dressing – whether for work, play or holiday. Here she answers Kotur’s questions.

What are the five things every woman should have in her wardrobe?

We all know the standard wardrobe foundations, the perfect: trench coat, white button down, grey cashmere sweater, black pencil skirt and dark wash denim, so I’d like to suggest the next layer to add, let’s call them the enhancements.

1. Tailored black silk shorts can be such a fun alternative, combining the flirty length of a skirt with the structure of a pant.

2. The right clutch adds instant polish to an outfit and lightens the weight usually created by a carryall/tote – yes you can use a clutch during the day! Think of it as a little art object. I’m still lusting over the silicone stud Kotur clutch I spotted Fiona with at lunch last week!

3. I love a skinny white jean, even in winter. The crispness is so refreshing.

4. A boxy collarless coat can pull an outfit together and provide a ladylike silhouette, especially when perched just so on the shoulders. Choose    a piece that reaches mid-thigh in a solid or color black.

5. The new basic is the chambray shirt, which pairs perfectly with everything from a cocktail skirt to denimThe best styles are soft and slightly worn in. 

What do you pack for – a city break?
I travel very light – only a carry on! For city trips I bring a few key pieces – a graphic jacket, leather pants, linen or cotton tees, a patterned scarf and a few silk skirts and dresses that I mix and match. The trick to basics packing is to keep the shoes to a minimum.
What do you pack for – a summer holiday?
Not much! The best part about visiting a favorite island/beach is that your wardrobe can be a bit more free. Think brightly colored tunics, a few bikinis and every variation of white: little eyelet dresses, macrame tops, maxi skirts, and pressed Oxfords for your flight. The best accessories on a summer holiday are natural hair and a tan!
What are your favourite global shopping destinations and which hotels do you like to stay in in these cities?
I love Marrakech for many things but particularly shopping. I recommend Riad El Fenn for the typical Moroccan experience in the medina and La Mamounia is surely the grande dame of the town. Aside from the obvious souks, which I love for affordable home décor objets, Bouriad Karim is my go-to for kaftans. Walking the Gueliz neighborhood, which is filled with small boutiques and cafes, is a lovely way to pass the afternoon.
 In the summer I spend a lot of time in the east end of Long Island. I stay mostly around my family’s Amagansett home, shopping Love Adorned, Sylvester & Co. Henr Lehr Beach Stop, Home Nature and popping out to Surf Bazaar and Cynthia Rowley in Montauk . For accommodations, The Maidstone Inn in East Hampton is perfect for design junkies and Rushmeyer’s in Montauk is a night owl’s dream.
What are your beauty essentials?
Make Up Forever’s Aqua Eyes eyeliner stays put and for a pop of color, Nars Jungle Red and Funny Face lipsticks are my go-tos. I recently discovered MAKE- the first for-benefit brand of We See Beauty.I am hooked on their eye makeup remover. Sakura Nail & Spa is a big part of my beauty routine, where I get long lasting and safe Calgel manicures.
Describe your favourite night out in New York, and what you’d be wearing for it.
I love the consistency of both the food and the scene at Soho standbys such as Bond St. and Indochine. The best place to go right now for after dinner drinks is nearby Acme, which has great music and a fun crowd. Right now I’m wearing Rochas and Suno dresses, Peter Pilotto and Clover Canyon skirts and Sergio Rossi heels, all from Moda Operandi.
Pictures: Portrait of Lucia Tait
City Break Style Picks:  Derek Lam Fatigue Dress, Carven red poplin dress, Marni printed dress, Yigal Azrouel Scarf, Moschino T Shirt, Balmain Biker pants and and Jenni Kayne Jacket

Holiday Style Picks: Nina Ricci red bikini, Matthew Williamson printed bikini, Suno maxi skirt, Derek Lam tunic, Pas pour Tois black and white kaftan, Thom Browne oxford shirt, Opening ceremony beaded top and Marni cocktail dress
Evening Style Picks: Rochas cocktail dress, Sergio Rossi heels, Peter Pilotto flared and pencil skirts and Equipment Reese blouse
All products from www.modaoperandi.com
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