An Interview With Brix Start-Smith
Start-Smith is the owner of the London boutique Start. She is a former singer and guitarist for the band The Fall.
Rain is a tempting reason to give up on looking pretty, but in London, where we have more than our share of wet days, we know it's important to have beautiful gear that lifts your spirits.
• Embrace the trench. Everyone needs one perfect trench coat that works as well over a co*cktail dress as it does with jeans and Wellies. Burberry invented the trench—everything else is basically an interpretation. Moncler and Miu Miu make great ones in sleek, water-resistant fabrics. For something more casual, I'm partial to a slicker with a hood or a jacket with toggles.
• Suit your shape. A double-breasted trench is flattering on most women, but if you have a large chest, look for a single-breasted style. I have curves, so anything belted looks very va-va-voom; I tend to go for A-line or straight cuts. Ideally, a raincoat should hit at or just below the knee.
• Look hot, not heavy. To avoid looking overstuffed, wear a thin cotton T-shirt under a lovely cashmere sweater, then throw on your trench. I usually skip hats. A coat with a removable hood or an umbrella will keep you dry without crushing your hair, and a gorgeous scarf adds a layer of warmth.
• Accessorize right. Carrying a flimsy plastic umbrella that turns into a skeleton every time the wind blows is sad. Buy a beautiful black, chocolate, or red one with a wooden handle. Hunter boots are classic, and they come in wonderful colors. (Cutesy patterned boots are vile unless you're under the age of 11.) You can also try black rubber riding boots from an equestrian shop. They look just like the leather ones.
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