There’s a good possibility you’re already familiar with my latest Real Style subject, the fabulous Claude Alicia of ConscienceCoupable. She’s probably already popped up on your Instagram discover page. With her enviable collection of lust-worthy bags and accessories, she has the closet in Montreal that I’d most love to raid. In fact, her closet is like her own personal clubhouse from where she frequently shares her style and life with her devoted followers on Instagram and Youtube (complete with sweet husband, adorable dogs, and fun travel). The quintessential Montreal girl, she speaks perfect Franglais and is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. With her serious love of fashion, her approach to style is fearless and I adore her for it. A lover of mixing high-quality investment pieces with more accessible items, she speaks my sartorial language. I could quite easily continue this introduction, telling you all about why I think she’s fabulous, but I’ll let her speak for herself. Make sure to check out her interview below and pop over to her blog to enjoy not only her style, but her writing too. Reading her posts is like sitting down with a girlfriend for a chat – you’re sure to get hooked!
Who are your personal style icons?
I have so many! Brigitte Bardot, Edie Sedgwick, Stevie Knicks, Bianca Jagger, Katherine Hepburn, and always adding a bit of Marilyn to every look. I also like taking a few pointers from the gents. Steven Tyler, Lenny Kravitz and Keith Richards definitely have an aesthetic I wish came naturally to me.
What are your favourite labels/who are your favourite designers?
The classics I always have to list would be Karl for both Chanel and Fendi, Tom Ford and even Alexander Wang, as he inspired me to come into my own if you will. As of late I’m all about the ladies, and am so thrilled so many incredible female designers have emerged! I love Rosie Assouline, Ellery, Johanna Ortiz, Alessandra Rich, Caroline Hayden, Brock Collection, and it’s no secret that I have a deep adoration for Zimmermann.
How would you describe your personal style?
No thank you, that is not a challenge I ever wish to take on. Besides it would make me sound like I have borderline personality disorder. I guess I could say I like to pair items that somewhat contradict each other, a good mix of feminine and masculine, it adds some weight to an outfit.
What was your first designer bag?
A denim Dior Saddle Bag with baby pink piping. It’s still practically perfect in every way.
Are there any trends you’re loving for Spring/Summer?
I’ve always loved matching separates. Bright coloured or printed suits have been getting my attention lately. As well as uber-femininity, from prairie dresses and Victoriana to the overt purity of southern gothic style. Think Sofia Coppola’s The Beguiled. I can’t help it the little girl in me just loves eyelets, lace, and ruffles. Mix that with a little dash of urban sportswears and you have got yourself a perfect spring 2018 outfit.
Are there any trends that you’d wish would just go away?
I don’t mind trends really. Whatever makes a person feel good! The ones I usually relate to and absorb rarely fade away from my wardrobe.
What are your beauty must-haves?
Moisturizer! Nars Creamy Concealer, Dior Addict Lip Glow and a good mascara are also a must.
What are the three pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe?
A vintage denim or boyfriend jean, a white button down shirt, and a jacket that makes her feel magical.
What inspired you to launch your blog?
The site was named ConscienceCoupable after the guilty conscience that plagued me from fashion purchases. Starting it felt like my way of confessing, and also giving my “sins” a greater purpose. This way they would get a chance to be appreciated by more than me, and maybe inspire a couple people to take the time to style themselves in a way that makes them feel confident enough to take on the day.
You have 48 hours to spend in Montreal, what do you do?
EAT! We have so many incredible restaurants and under appreciated delicacies! As a tourist doing a proper tour of Montreal’s best Poutines alone would take me an entire day….and maybe a second or third stomach.
