This month we are peeking into the wardrobe of local business woman Caitlin Hazell. If you've met Caitlin you'll know she is a perfect blend of cool, smart, and approachable. Creative and collaborative, she’s been making moves since setting up her own freelance PR, marketing and development company - managing multiple sectors including retail, interior design, home wares and antiques (The French House is on our must see stops if you visit York) and the charity sector.
Tell us what you do?
I have just started a new role as Head of Partnerships for a charity, but I also do some freelance work supporting independent businesses and charities with their PR and Marketing.
Describe your personal style for us?
My style varies a lot. I love vintage pieces and casual wear, but my jobs require me to dress more formal too. Having a dog, I tend to wear scruffs and wellies a lot, plus I like to run so am a big fan of leggings and trainers too!
This red floral blouse from W&W is great for the office or weekends.
Who is your biggest Style Inspiration?
Style wise, I think Brigitte Bardot was the embodiment of effortless French chic.
How often do you shop?
What has been your biggest fashion faux pas?
So many! I was a big fan of flares in the 90’s, but at 5’10” they were often not long enough and would swing around my ankles – not the best look! Also, the blonde hair wasn’t a good look for me with dark eyebrows, I didn’t carry that look off.
What's the one piece you always buy every single season?
New trainers – as soon as the weather improves, I treat myself to some colourful trainers. After a winter of walking the dog in wellies or big boots, I can’t wait to wear something comfortable and colourful.
Image: Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage trainers
What's the item you are guaranteed to wear at least once a week?
Straight legged blue jeans. I have a couple of favourite pairs that go with everything.
Jumper or Jacket?
Jacket – I have lots. I have lots of blazers for work, but I like to wear them in Spring/Summer too with t-shirts. Denim, leather, cotton, quilted, my wardrobe is full of jackets.
What are your favourite go to Brands?
I don’t have a favourite brand, I like to find vintage pieces, shopping with independent brands like Watson & White (obviously) as well as the high-street.
What's your weekend style?
Weekends are all about comfort, trainers, jeans, dinner with the girls or running gear. I don’t tend to wear heels and dresses unless I have to!
How has your style changed over the years?
I’m not sure my style has changed that much over the years, I still go for the jeans and nice top look, since the 90’s! I’m more confident in my own skin in my 40’s and don’t worry about following trends but tend to choose good quality nice fabrics that last, shopping ethically and supporting local where possible.
What's your most treasured item?
I love wearing a gold locket pendant that my grandmother gave my mum when she left Canada to travel by boat to the UK at 18 years old. My grandma inscribed the back with ‘Much love from Mother, July 1968’. My mum gave it to me, and I wear it most days, it looks nice for work or just with a t-shirt.
Signature Scent?
Coco Channel
Song on repeat?
It’s usual my son who has his music blaring these days, but I like to listen to playlists when walking or out running, these varying hugely depending on mood.
Must read book?
Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race.
What's on your bedside table?
At the moment I am reading The Salt Path by Raynor Wynn and my sleep device called a Dodow.
Whose wardrobe do you covet?
Photo: Alex Stedman
Jane & Hannah x