Wardrobe Insider: Barbara Yu Larsson

Barbara Yu Larsson, the Co-Founder of PAKT shares her style secrets, where she loves to shop and what you’ll never find in her wardrobe.

1) Describe your style in three words

Classic, elegant and modern.

2) What’s the most precious item in your wardrobe and why?

My Lecoanet Hemant silk, kimono dress because so many special memories are wrapped up in it. It reminds me of trips to Paris and staying in the Coco Chanel suite at the Ritz.

3) What’s your go to outfit?

A short, shift dress in cotton or silk. Depending on what shoes I wear I am able to dress it up or down.

4) Favourite piece you bought recently and why?

I discovered a wonderful shop in Siem Reap, Eric Raisina Couture. His fabrics and colours are magnificent, I came out with a lace dress, linen trousers, silk blouses and a silk jacket that feels absolutely weightless. I love the explosion of colours and that his fabrics are all handmade.

Colourful fabrics designed by Eric Raisina Couture

5) What is the best fashion advice you have received?

Know what looks good on you and don’t follow fashion’s ups and downs.

6) Who are your style icons?

Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy Onassis.

7) Personal style signifier

Franck Mueller watches. I love changing the colour of the straps to suit the season and my mood.

8) Less or more?

Less. I think simplicity is a strong statement.

9) If you were an item of clothing what would you be?

A mini dress. This item of clothing really changed the way women dressed.

10) Where do you love to shop?

I’m often on the road so it depends on the city. In New York I always stop by Bergdorf Goodman, while in London I love the individuality of Browns. I can’t go to Stockholm without buying something from Natalie Schuterman. They have the most perfect things from each designer they stock. Of course closer to home, Lane Crawford has an ever changing mix of fashion, accessories and homewares.

11) Favourite fashion apps?

Net-a Porter and the Business of Fashion, which is my essential daily resource for industry intelligence. Of course, I can’t wait for the PAKT app to launch later in the year.

12) If a museum asked you to donate one item from your wardrobe that represented you, what would it be?

A stunning, evening dress in yellow, turquoise and orange sequins, designed by the wonderful Nadia Lavalle, founder of independent couture house, Spaghetti, London. Sadly it’s now closed.