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5 minutes with: Hannah Strafford-Taylor

Hannah Strafford-Taylor, the ultra-stylish Instagram star and Sloane Street regular, on her greatest extravagances, and how she likes to unwind

15 July 2021

What is your greatest extravagance?

I guess my biggest extravagance when it comes to shopping is Chanel. Chanel is definitely my weakness. I absolutely love its ready-to-wear, bags and shoes… Although, in my defence, it is so timeless and everything that I’ve ever bought from Chanel (even things from more than 15 years ago) I still wear now. Plus, it holds its value. And I also know all the pieces will be passed down to my girls.

What piece of advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell myself to travel more (and I don’t mean holidays). I did quite a lot of travelling in my late teens and early twenties, but I always wish I had done more. I have never been to India or travelled around Australia or Africa extensively. I think to see the world is not only enriching and rewarding, but I think it is also incredibly grounding and humbling, and you learn so much about yourself. Plus, what is better than making memories?

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Ha! Lately, I have probably not stopped saying ‘Oh my goodness, this weather!’ and ‘I need a holiday!’ Since this weather is driving me crazy, and I would really love to go away right now and see the ocean and some sunshine.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I’m not sure if you would exactly call it a talent but I do wish I was more confident in social situations. I am confident in doing things, like putting myself out of my comfort zone and trying new things, but I can be quite shy around people, especially in big groups I don’t feel comfortable in.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I absolutely love the creative and artistic side of my job – from picking the clothes to shoot and the styling of the outfit, to choosing the right location and the actual composition of the final image. I studied art, so the whole creative process is something that I’ve always loved doing.

What is your most treasured possession?

It’s not exactly a possession, but it’s my family. I cannot imagine being without them. My husband is my rock; the most amazing and supportive husband I could have wished for. My mum is my best friend; the most selfless person I have ever met. And MY GIRLS – I don’t know where to even start when it comes to them.

What do you do to relax?

To relax, I always meditate, and it’s actually something that I started a few years ago. I try to meditate every day for at least 15-30 minutes, as it really helps set me up for the day and has benefitted my health in so many ways, too. I cannot recommend it enough.

What wardrobe items do you seem to never have enough of?

They say a girl can never have too many pairs of shoes and I’m no exception. Whether it’s heels, flats, or boots I just LOVE all shoes. I also have a small obsession with amazing quality cashmere knits (and jeans).

What was your first job?

Well, believe it or not, my first job was actually selling Christmas trees when I was 13 years old. My parents always taught me the importance of a strong work ethic and value of money. So, even when I was super young, I started working on the weekends and holidays. I remember making £10 a day selling the trees and, when Christmas came, I remember feeling so rich and so excited to go and buy presents for my family.

They say a girl can never have too many pairs of shoes and I’m no exception 

What is your favourite quote?

“The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters” – Audrey Hepburn

Which book do you always recommend?

I really love the classics. One of my favourite books is Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh. I also love Pride and Prejudice as it makes me feel so nostalgic for my early teens. It was one of the first classics I read and really transported me to that era… I can’t wait until Soleil and I can read it together.

Three words to describe your style?

Classic, timeless and I try to be chic (but I wouldn’t say I am chic).

Three words to describe Sloane Street?

Stylish
Cosmopolitan
Luxurious

 

Follow Hannah Strafford-Taylor on Instagram @hannahstraffordtaylor

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