“A feminist icon for tearaway women”
I’m way too young to really remember Suzi Quatro. She was the first female pop star clad in biker leathers: looking badass, playing bass and beating the boys at their own game in the early 70s. So, on the one hand, the leather jacket is a feminist icon for tearaway women. We have the freedom to be who we want to be.
On the other hand, it’s all about safety. This is a technical jacket as much as a style statement. I’m a keen motorcycle rider and this leather jacket has been with me on many journeys. Within the figure-hugging, aerodynamic design, there are reinforced sections to protect the rider in case you come off your bike.
The scarf is a Black Watch tartan. It’s a military design dating back to the 18th century when the Black Watch regiments were sent to guard the Highlands after the Jacobite Rebellion. My great grandfather served in the army and, later in his career, had an office at Balhousie Castle in Perth, home to the Black Watch museum where his medals are on display. That’s also where I got married. So, for me, the tartan has personal significance as well as historical interest.
“I used to get her hand-me-downs”
It’s not always easy being the kid sister. My sister is older than me, so when I was growing up, I’d get her hand-me-downs. When you’re young, you might grumble about feeling second-best but now I think it’s a beautiful thing. I’d say my sister has quite a cool fashion sense, so I was lucky. My sister and I have a close bond and always swap clothes.
I love this black velvet dress with its embroidered roses and sheer sleeves. Of course, it actually belongs to my sister. She wore it to my wedding so it’s doubly fabulous. She chose it for the roses, which she knew had a special meaning for me. I love the way my sister still looks out for me, and that includes sharing her style.
