Tabitha Simmons is a true fashion polymath. The English born and New York dwelling designer and mother of two entered the fashion world as a model before becoming a celebrated and in-demand stylist. An obsession and extensive knowledge of shoes led her to launch her eponymous line in 2009 and she quickly attracted a passionate following for her elegant and joyous designs.
Exquisite materials and fine craftsmanship with a hint of whimsy and Englishness define her designs – not to forget that essential element of comfort. Jaunty pointy flats, correspondent pumps and lace-up booties are all in her repertoire. The British Fashion Award Accessories winner (2011) is also a working mother and is married to renowned photographer, Craig McDean. Simultaneously, she continues as a contributing editor for publications including Vogue Italia and Another Magazine: ‘multitasking’ is her middle name.
LC : How has your background in modelling and styling played a part in you becoming an award-winning accessories designer?
TS : Both have played a tremendous role in me becoming a designer. They taught me how to listen to my instinct, play close attention to detail and quality and how to edit a collection.
LC : If you weren’t styling, designing and simultaneously contributing as an editor to various magazines, what would you be doing?
TS : I would be a TV and film set designer.
LC : What do you think it is about the Tabitha Simmons aesthetic that draws all the cool girls, from Kate Moss to Alexa Chung?
TS : I think they are drawn to my collection because of the British design aesthetic I bring to my collections each season.
LC : Being a shoe designer, do you plan your outfits around your shoe choice for the day?
TS : Yes, I always dress from the feet up depending on my day whether it is standing on set for 12 hours or working in my studio designing a new collection.
LC : As a stylist, what’s the best styling advice you can give?
TS : Know your body and dress for your shape. Also don’t follow a trend if it doesn’t suit you.
LC : What’s your secret to handling everything – from your styling and shoe designing to your two kids?
TS : I have a great team both at home and at work that support me.
LC : How would you sum up your personality in 3 words?
TS : Hard working, energetic, fun.
LC : How would you describe your personal style?
TS : Classic with an eclectic vibe.
LC : You are about to embark on your first trip to Hong Kong and China, what are you most looking forward to?
TS : I am very excited to see the street fashion and get the full Asia experience.
LC : What are the travel essentials that you're making sure to pack for your trip to Asia?
TS : Stuffed animals from my children, cashmere socks, Bose headphones, iPad and a Rose water spray.
When it comes to styling her shoes, Tabitha opts for timeless styles in a monochrome palette – the perfect canvas to let her shoes shine. Easy pieces like a striped linen top, a leather biker jacket or a skinny black pants are ideal for running errands in or work. The occasional burst of print and colour emphasises her multi-faceted personality, which she loves for a fun night out with her friends.
