American expat and Apartment 86 owner Linda Chandler shares her style secrets with Viva.
Linda Chandler's journey is a unique one, with a career that has seen her study classical and modern dance in New York, model in Paris and, most recently, open her own boutique in Ponsonby. She opened Apartment 86 in 2007, a year after moving to Auckland with her Kiwi husband. It has a focus on classic basics as opposed to trends - a philosophy that echoes Chandler's own personal style. She tells us all about it.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A pair of black leather jeans and T-shirt by BCBG, and a pair of suede heels by Aldo, all bought in Miami.
What item of clothing or accessory do you want to buy next?
It's time for a new leather handbag.
Your favourite accessory?
Would it be a surprise if I said shoes are by far my favourite accessory? A lady can never have too many.
Who are your favourite designers?
Michael Kors - I love sophisticated, easy day-to-evening pieces, and he offers chic simplicity all year round; and Roberto Cavalli for his signature sexy animal prints.
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
Hellooo? A really great pair of shoes!
What's your fragrance?
I've been wearing Tiffany's signature perfume for more than 10 years now but only in the winter. I switch to Miss Dior, a lighter scent, for the summer.
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
Most likely Anna Wintour, after all she is the Editor-in-Chief at Vogue. It's a guarantee to find something to wear out of her wardrobe.
What do you wear to work?
Lots of skinny white jeans with printed blouses or tunics, or maxi dresses and sandals.
What do you wear when relaxing at home?
Cotton and shorts.
Most cherished item?
It would have to be my necklace and matching earrings designed by Elsa Peretti purchased back in 1997. They are so quintessentially timeless and chic: no juicy story behind it.
Most stylish city?
I would have to say Paris. I love the cafes and museums around Place des Vosges - it's a great place to sit and enjoy the scene.
Best city for fashion shopping in the world?
I don't think there is only one place but I would say a mix of cities, like New York, Miami, London and Paris.
How would you describe your style?
Urban, chic, classic and comfortable.
What's in your handbag?
M.A.C. sheer face powder, lip gloss, cocoa and vanilla antibacterial hand wash, Kiehl's hand cream, bottle of water, iPod.
