Nicola Cupples teaches women to become style consultants and personal shoppers in her business, My Style Companion. The 30-year-old, who lives in Wilmslow, reveals her fashion loves and loathes
What do you wear to work?I need to be comfortable as I’m usually rummaging about in people’s wardrobes or running around the high street. I wear jeans a lot because they are practical - my favourites at the moment are my high-waisted flares from Whistles. I’m loving my Pied A Terre desert boots and my metallic gold Converse pumps when wearing skinny jeans, as they’re super comfy when I’m on my feet all day.
What do you like to wear for a big night out?I love getting dressed up and because I spend a lot of time in flats or mid-heels, sky scraper heels are a must for a night out. It’s all about statement accessories for me, combined with a modern, yet timeless dress. My favourite ‘big night out’ dresses are from Kirsty Doyle and Bastyan, worn with a statement neckpiece, cuff or cocktail ring.
Tell us about your biggest fashion mistakeWhen I was younger I was really experimental with fashion – I would try anything and everything. I remember being desperate for a full length dressing gown style winter coat with a faux fur collar – I thought I looked mature when really I looked like I’d dressed up in my mum’s clothes.
Tell us who your favourite designer isI adore Phoebe Philo, creative director for Celine. I could buy every piece she designs, and I felt the same when she designed for Chloe. I’m also a big fan of statement accessories. I love Mawi.
Who’s been the biggest influence on your personal style?Growing up it was my Mum. She’s effortlessly stylish and always looks so classy, even when she’s doing the garden! Nowadays, I find my job makes my personal style stronger than ever – I don’t buy any piece unless I’m absolutely in love with it.
What is your favourite high street shop?I really love Reiss and Zara: they work for my body shape and do fashionable pieces that fit well with my personal style. I’ve also become seriously obsessed with The Kooples.
Most recent purchase you’re thrilled with?I’m not one for sale shopping. However, I managed to get a silk Pied A Terre jumpsuit for a bargain recently. I’m also really pleased with a couple of Michael Kors wardrobe updates recently, a classic purse and a fabulous leopard silk tee which I love wearing.
What perfume do you wear?Chloe or Stella McCartney for evening and Marc Jacobs in the day. I love all the Tom Ford scents as well and sometimes even steal a bit of my fianc�’s aftershave.
Which hair and beauty products are in your bathroom?I can’t do without Palmers Cocoa Butter – I’ve used it pretty much every day since I was 12. At the moment I’m using Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair on my face, which is just genius.
Which beauty product would you be lost without?Eyelash curlers. Even without any make-up when I’m running out to the supermarket, eyelash curlers and a dab of lip gloss is enough to make me look more awake.
Are you a gym body?I’m a home gym girl. When I don’t get time to workout, shopping is my cardio!
Who is the most stylish man and woman of the last 100 years?Sarah Jessica Parker and her character Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City.
I think she has given women the confidence to find their own style and to realise that experimenting with fashion can be fun and you’re allowed to make mistakes.
The most stylish man in the last 100 years has to be Yves Saint Laurent. He’s a true fashion legend.
What’s your favourite local restaurant?The Grill on the Edge for a juicy steak and The Wizard, both in Alderley Edge, for the best Sunday lunch with family after a walk in my wellies.
