I would say my style is smart casual; the way I dress has changed over the years. I used to wear power suits a lot and I was dressed in a full designer outfit to go to the office. Now that I’m based in Dubai, my office is at home and it’s a lot more casual, but I still love to dress up…”
Caroline Stanbury
Caroline Stanbury, based in Dubai, describes herself as a mother, wife (to Sergio Carrallo, below right), entrepreneur, reality TV star, podcaster, real estate developer, and wellness brand owner. Here, we discuss Caroline’s wardrobe staples, favourite designers, and what she won’t leave home without…
C&B: “Caroline, congratulations on appearing on the CITY & BEACH INTERNATIONAL BEST DRESSED LIST 2025. We adore your look; it’s constantly evolving – from the fabulous outfits you wear to your hair and makeup. Who would you say are your favourite designers overall, the influencers who most inspire you, and your essential wardrobe items?”
CS: “Thank you! My favourite designers are Saint Laurent, Ronny Kobo, and Chanel; my biggest style inspirations are influencers Morgan Stewart and Leonie Hanne. I work a lot with colour and key pieces, I buy only one or two essential items per season; I recently invested in a sheer Saint Laurent dress, I love it and it’s timeless…”
C&B: “What’s your favourite piece in your wardrobe right now, and why?”
CS: “My favorite piece is my Hermès ‘Cargo’ bag. I was the first to get one from Paris, and its bright, cheerful colour complements everything in my wardrobe. I truly love it; it’s timeless, and I’ve always wanted a ‘Cargo’ Birkin…”
C&B: “When you reflect on your fashion journey over the years, which outfit would you consider to be your all-time favourite?”
CS: “That would be a good Chanel blazer teamed with thigh high boots…”
C&B: “That sounds amazing! Is there anything you’ve worn more recently that you felt was just perfect for the occasion?”
CS: “Not too long ago, I went to Africa for a friends 50th Birthday – there was a different dress code every night and I was dressed in Dolce & Gabbana outfits (see images top of page and below); the experience was amazing, and I felt a million dollars…”
I don’t leave home without my sunglasses and an amazing handbag, which are essential to my style. Additionally, I always wear Anton Jewellery, including my stacked earrings and necklace, along with my Jacob & Co cuff bracelet. In my handbag, I carry a good lip balm, a hairbrush, and a concealer, which, in my case, is from a brand called ‘Tarte’…”
Caroline Stanbury
C&B: “As there’s now a focus in the fashion world on sustainability, how do you address that issue on a personal basis?”
CS: “I ensure my wardrobe remains dynamic; being on a reality show, I typically sell the clothes that I’ve worn on the show or those that have been seen too frequently on Instagram. When I no longer have a use for them, I prefer to let someone else enjoy them rather than allowing them to sit in my closet collecting dust…”
In today’s world, fashion is not merely about clothing; for me, it represents a lifestyle. Fashion permeates every aspect of my life; it is not solely about the garments I wear but rather encompasses my personal style and the overall vibe I project…”
Caroline Stanbury
C&B: “When traveling, which you do frequently, what attire do you recommend for readers to ensure they leave and arrive looking polished and put together?”
CS: “Personally, I prefer to wear tracksuits that are in solid colors, and I carry a large travel bag. I recently purchased a Bottega Veneta travel bag, and I typically choose either an all-gray or a brown tracksuit. By opting for this ensemble, you will always look amazing…”
C&B: “Caroline, speaking of destinations, you are in the ideal position to provide luxury travel tips. What are your favourite destinations, including hotels, private clubs, and restaurants?”
CS: “My favourite places include Soho House, the Hempel Hotel in Kensington Gardens, Gia, and LPM. I particularly like Casa Cipriani in New York. For boutique accommodations, I appreciate The Lowell Hotel in New York. Additionally, I make it a point to visit Mr. Chow Downtown in New York, as it is an essential stop during my trips to the city…”
CONTACT: info@carolinestanbury.com
