There is something sacred about the getting ready ritual, which you will be doing a lot of during this festive period.
Midnight 00 collection.
Whether you prefer getting ready with friends, take 10 minutes in a bathroom or head to the nearest salon for head to toe transformation, there’s a lot to be said for a party-ready routine that keeps you feeling and looking good all night long.
To celebrate this ‘me time’ before a night out, and to mark the launch a capsule collection, online e-tailer matchesfashion.com has joined forces with shoe brand Midnight 00. Designed with the events season in mind, the range of eight different styles features lamé fabrics in a variety of bold colours, embellished with the PVC casings that the brand has become known for.
The founder of the brand consultant Ada Kokosar approached four of her tastemaker friends from across the globe to shoot styles from the collection and talk through their favourite designers for party dressing and their pre-party routines.
Ada Kokosar – stylist, creative consultant and founder of Midnight 00.
‘‘I start with the shoes when creating a party look. I think it’s the most important element as it gives you the attitude, which is why I created party and bubbles-proof shoes. I used to dress according to my mood, but then I realised how much a look can actually change your frame of mind. I tend to play around with a lot of different styles, depending on the occasion and the environment, and usually look to labels like Halpern, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi and Hillier Bartley. I love to get ready with a group of my best girlfriends at my place.”
Giorgia Tordin – Co-Founder And Creative Director Of Attico.
‘‘If I am going out I always choose the most extravagant and fun pieces in my closet. Sequins, velvet, feathers, sparkly accessories and high heels are what I need to start the night right. My Attico dresses always put me in a good mood, so I usually wear one of them when I want something playful and sexy. If I had to pick the perfect party shoes, I’d definitely go for a pair by Midnight 00s – they make you feel like a princess, and you can dance all night in them. Music is always with me while I get ready. I can jump from my ‘oldies’ playlist of Chic, Diana Ross and Bryan Ferry to hip-hop from Drake, The Weeknd and Frank Ocean. It just depends on my mood.’’
Linda Tol – Amsterdam-Based Stylist And Trend Predictor.
‘‘When it comes to dressing for going out, I like anything inspired by Studio 54 – fabrics such as sequins and velvets. I love to wear my crystal-embellished oversized earrings by Alessandra Rich with jeans, a black tuxedo blazer and a pair of killer heels. Another favourite is my Attico sequin dress, worn with classic black open-toe sandals. For me, heels have to be comfortable, sexy, super elegant and outstanding. I listen to Drake, Kanye West, Beyoncé and Frank Ocean to get me in the mood while I’m getting ready, and sip Champagne.’’
Tamu Mcpherson – Editor Of Tamu Mcpherson, Now Lives In Milan.
‘‘Before I start getting ready, I like to use lavender or rose quartz-infused oils after my shower – they are both so relaxing and soothing. When it comes to choosing what to wear, I am either really into a look at the moment, or I open my closet and go for the piece that calls out to me the most. For party pieces, I lean towards labels such as Attico, Jacquemus and Ellery. As for shoes, I always look out for a great silhouette, an attractive fabrication and a gorgeous heel – it’s a plus when they’re adorned in some way. I tend to get ready alone, but listening to Prince always gets me in the party mood.’’
Bettina Looney – Stylist And Tastemaker Based In London.
‘‘My getting-ready ritual usually starts 10 minutes before I need to leave the house or office, and ends up with me doing my make-up in the car. On the off occasion there’s time for it, I like to throw in a relaxing bath to unwind before I go out. What I wear depends on the occasion – I like to mix and match pieces by designers like Alessandra Rich, Ellery and Isa Arfen until a look comes together. I tend to choose shoes to complement my outfit. I am really loving what Midnight 00 has done, making a modern Cinderella slipper that can be worn from day to night, dressed up or dressed down. It’s fun and something different, which is always a game changer for me.’’
