010: NEADA DETERS
lives in vintage suits and men's shirting.
Some of my more devoted readers (ahem, my parents) may have noticed that this newsletter is coming after a one-week break. I am sorry about that and I hope it won’t happen often. My job brought me on a trip to Florence, which was as time-consuming as it was lovely.
I’m happy to report that the people in Italy are as chic as ever, particularly the over-70 set, who seem to have a practiced, eccentric elegance, in the vein of Mrs. Miuccia Prada herself - think soft, neutral tones, richly textured fabrics, and little twists of personality, mainly expressed through pops of color and accessories - glasses, jewelry, scarves, and the like.
I always pack in a carry-on for shorter trips like this. I see it as an exercise in streamlining and creativity - how can I squeeze the most wear out of the smallest amount of clothing? It’s a more extreme version of what I strive for (sartorially) in my everyday life, and what I’m trying to explore in this newsletter, the fewest possible pieces with the most possible impact.
This week I’m excited to feature Neada Deters, for whom the “less is more” philosophy is a guiding principle.
Neada, who is Australian but lives in L.A., founded her beauty company, Lesse, in 2018 after working as an editor in the fashion and beauty space. Lesse is an extremely paired-back skincare line, with well-researched, organic ingredients. It’s clear that the brand’s minimalism is a reflection of Neada’s personal style, but so too is its meticulous thoughtfulness. Almost every item in Neada’s wardrobe is vintage or from a small, up-and-coming designer. I loved hearing about the clothes she’s living in right now.
I’m drawn to tailored pieces in neutral tones. Some people run from simplicity but I believe it opens up infinite possibilities. Foundational items allow for individual and evolving reinterpretation, enduring throughout the years. My current wardrobe consists of mostly suits and men’s shirting. I gravitate towards these styles for their refinement, versatility, and ease.
NEADA’S MOST WORN:
Long lightweight coat and matching trousers from Pantalon. I wear these together and apart, pairing the long coat with a pleated skirt or styling the trousers with just about any kind of top and shoe.
Soft bib top from Attersee. My most worn and beloved shirt, this wears so beautifully on warmer days and transitions well with a long skirt or trousers for an evening out.
Vintage navy blue pinstripe suits, inherited from my aunt. My aunt gave me her navy pinstripe suit about a decade ago and I continue to wear the set or individual items at least once per week. Similar options here and here.
Vintage Hermes beige silk trousers. From my secret vintage source in Paris, these trousers are perfect for summer days with a flat or heeled sandal. Similar options here and here.
Studio Nicholson men’s striped shirt. Similar style here. I find a stripe so easy to integrate with any look for added interest, and this one wears so beautifully over a swimsuit and shorts or tucked into oversized trousers with a small heel.
Vintage beige skirt suit. To be worn together or apart, an essential of mine for spring and summer. Similar here but mine is sleeveless, a rarity.
Pleated black skirt. I wear mine from Nomia once or twice per week and have pleaded with the designer to bring it back in black, along with introducing a brown colorway. Similar here.
Bra bag from Fane. I have a collection of well-known luxury brand bags but this has been my most-worn bag for the past few years. It’s the perfect size for the essentials and has a slightly sculptural look that adds interest to any outfit
Patent loafers from Chanel. To be worn with anything, for anything. Dresses up jeans particularly well.
Nappa sandals from Emme Parsons. It may sound insane to some but I am on my third pair of these sandals. Over the past five years, I have worn two pairs to death on miles-long walks through New York, Milan, Sydney, Sicily, Madrid. They take a couple of days to wear in but then suddenly feel as comfortable as sneakers. The tie at the ankle styles well with shorts or a skirt, and they also work really well paired with oversized trousers.
Thank you for reading! As always, if you liked this week’s letter please share it with a friend or drop me a note.
Just the most amazing selection of items! Loved this one and love Neada!