Felicity Kay, the name behind the effortlessly cool and captivating looks of stars like Paul Mescal, Kit Conner, and Ncuti Gatwa, has become a force in the world of fashion. From styling A-list actors to shaping the image of a new generation of tastemakers, Kay’s influence is undeniable. So, it’s no surprise that she’s now stepping into the role of designer, launching an exclusive capsule collection with With Nothing Underneath, a brand known for its impeccable shirting.
Kay’s collection is a testament to her deep understanding of fashion and her passion for tailoring. The three meticulously crafted shirts, ranging from graphic stripes to winged-collar dress shirts, transcend traditional gender boundaries and offer a modern take on classic elegance. We had the chance to chat with Kay about her design process, her insights on personal style, and the evolution of fashion across continents.
From Styling to Designing: A Natural Evolution
Kay’s journey into design was born from a familiar stylist’s dilemma: the constant quest for the perfect piece. “When I’m putting together wardrobes for clients, especially for events or press tours, there are always one or two key pieces I’m looking for that I just can’t seem to find – and it’s often a really great shirt.” This led her to reach out to Pip, the founder of With Nothing Underneath (and a fellow Tatler Magazine intern from 2012), to create a specific shirt for a client. The collaboration was a natural progression, allowing Kay to translate her styling expertise into tangible designs.
Design Details: A Playful Twist on Classics
The collection is a blend of classic tailoring and modern, playful details. Each shirt features a relaxed drop shoulder, balanced by dramatic double cuffs that can be worn open for a more undone look or folded for a polished touch. “Wearing the cuffs open might not be practical for everyone, but I think there’s something playful about it,” Kay shares. The Ncuti shirt, named after her first client, is a standout piece. It was originally conceived as a drapey wrap shirt for Ncuti Gatwa’s awards season wardrobe and has evolved into the foundation for the entire collection.
Kay’s Advice on Cultivating Personal Style
When asked about her tips for developing a strong sense of personal style, Kay emphasizes the importance of inspiration and visualization. “Something I apply to working with clients is devoting time to seek out inspiration, whether that’s through art, travel, film, or just getting a sense and taking note of what resonates with you.” She also recommends moodboarding as a powerful tool for visualising your style and finding consistency.
Learning from the Stars: Authenticity and Individuality
Kay’s experiences styling high-profile personalities like Paul Mescal and Ncuti Gatwa have taught her valuable lessons about authenticity and individuality. “That being authentic and true to yourself, whether it’s your style or values, and not looking at what other people are doing can be impactful. It’s about having a point of view, and that authenticity comes across both on and off the red carpet.” She underscores the importance of staying true to oneself, saying, “The best advice I’ve ever received – and it applies to both life and fashion – is that comparison is the death of happiness and creativity. It’s easy to lose yourself if you’re always looking at what others are doing. Focusing on what makes you happy, whether in style or in life, is the most important thing.”
A Cross-Continental Perspective on Fashion
Having lived in both the UK and the US, Kay has a unique perspective on the differences between American and British style. “Having moved back to the UK from San Francisco after living there for four years, I’ve realized how localized style is across the US, city to city. The country is so vast that you find brands thriving in one city that aren’t necessarily known anywhere else. The difference in style between cities like Portland and Los Angeles is huge, even though they’re on the same coast. That kind of locality to fashion was so interesting to me, and I found it inspiring when traveling around the States on my many road trips.”
Kay’s Wardrobe Essentials: Comfort and Versatility
While the life of a stylist might appear glamorous, Kay reveals that it’s a demanding job that requires practicality. “Contrary to what people assume, the day-to-day life of a stylist isn’t particularly glamorous. It involves a lot of running around with samples, unpacking, repacking, and being on your feet all day on set. So, for me, hard-wearing, comfortable pieces are non-negotiable. I rely heavily on denim, shirting, and tailoring.” She emphasizes the versatility of shirting as a foundation for creating various looks.
Kay’s Autumn/Winter 2024 Wishlist: Comfort and Chic
For the upcoming season, Kay is drawn to pieces that combine comfort and style. She’s particularly enamored with the Ada crew-neck cardigan from &Daughter, a brand she’s been incorporating into both men’s and women’s wardrobes. She also has her eye on Phoebe Philo’s cropped bombers, which she praises for their perfect balance.
Kay’s collaboration with With Nothing Underneath is a testament to her talent and passion for fashion. Her designs are a perfect reflection of her keen eye for detail, her commitment to creating timeless pieces, and her unwavering belief in the power of individuality. Shop the collection and discover the unique style that Felicity Kay has brought to the world of fashion.