“I’m a big believer in finding your own Style DNA and I think the most stylish women are the ones that know who they are stylistically – Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is the perfect example of someone who knew her style and wore it effortlessly…”
Amanda Wakeley OBE, Designer & Podcast Host
Amanda Wakeley OBE divides her time between Chelsea, London; Verbier, Switzerland; and the New Forest in Hampshire. She serves as Creative Director host of the podcast ‘Amanda Wakeley Style DNA.’ In the podcast, she interviews well-known guests from various industries, including fashion, film, music, and beyond, delving into their lives and exploring the stories behind their style choices. The podcast is currently in its seventh season…
C&B: “Amanda, congratulations on appearing on the CITY & BEACH INTERNATIONAL BEST DRESSED LIST 2025! How do you define your personal style, and how has it evolved over the years?”
AW: “I aim for a look that is effortlessly chic, timeless but current – perhaps best summed up as Clean Glam…”
As a designer behind an eponymous brand for 30 years I would only wear Amanda Wakeley. In this next chapter I am still reaching for many of my Amanda Wakeley pieces and supplementing that with Stella McCartney, Saint Laurent and Cos…”
Amanda Wakeley OBE, Designer & Podcast Host
C&B: “When you think back over the years, which outfit has been your favourite?”
AW: “So many outfits have stories to tell, hence the creation of my podcast! As a designer it was always a look from the most recent collection. At the launch of one of my podcasts, I wore a Saint Laurent tux jacket, Tom Ford for Gucci satin cargo pants, an Amanda Wakeley lace and satin cami and Alaia boots…”
My must-have fashion accessories that I never leave home without include a man’s watch, and in my handbag I have Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin Nourishing Lip Balm SPF 30, a soft hair tie, and Celine sunglasses…”
Amanda Wakeley OBE, Designer & Podcast Host
C&B: “Can you share any tips for maintaining a stylish yet comfortable look when travelling?”
AW: “Comfort is key… I always remember the temperature at the other end will most probably be different. I never travel long haul without at least a couple of oversized lightweight cashmere blankets to cocoon myself in on the plane. Layers and a silk eye mask are your friend!”
I’m more about style than trends so I tend to add a piece or two rather than top to toe – I’m loving a mannish oversized jacket, and if it’s hot I will shoulder robe that – I love the mix of masculine and feminine…”
Amanda Wakeley OBE, Designer & Podcast Host
C&B: “How do you approach sustainable fashion, and are there any eco-friendly brands you love?”
AW: “Buy less, buy better and look after it well – I have many pieces in my wardrobe that have been there a long time…that is true sustainability to me!”
C&B: “Thank you, Amanda! (see further down this page for an episode of ‘Style DNA’)
AMANDA’S FAVOURITE SPOTS:
• ‘Can Simonetta’ in Canyamel Majorca – sublime boutique hotel in the most idyllic setting – I would recommend Room 50. (above, right)
• ‘Oswald’s’ (second image down, left) on Albemarle St, London – the private club created by Robin Burley where the food is sublime and the crowd is chic.
• ‘Club Chalet Blanc’ in Verbier – a true club on the mountain with great food, plenty of friends and awesome views.
• ‘Sennequier’ in St Tropez – in the port, true French bistro and the best pastries and coffee…
• ‘Soho House’ Barcelona – just loved it …the rooms, the bars, the gym…
• ‘The Barbary’ Notting Hill – cooking with fire, interiors by the architect of Chiltern Firehouse
INSTAGRAM: @amandawakeley
