Jaime Ridge, Kiwi creative living in LA, epitomises a unique blend of classic elegance and contemporary style. Discover what inspires Jaime's style, her approach to creating a timeless wardrobe, and her favourite places in LA.
November 08, 2023
ILU Style Guide: Jaime Ridge
How would you describe your personal style, and what is your process for putting together a look or a capsule wardrobe?
My personal style is best described as classic, contemporary and structured. Classic because I invest in timeless pieces I'll love for years to come, but contemporary because I love clean lines and silhouettes. I also really appreciate a well-cut piece, shape and form are so important. I try to shop sustainably where possible. I do my best to shop as consciously as possible, whether that's purchasing from sustainable brands or buying pieces I'll keep forever and I'm a huge advocate for circular fashion too. A sustainable life isn't about perfection, it's about educating yourself on key issues and trying to make informed shopping decisions.
In terms of putting looks together, I try to plan ahead, usually the night before, to ensure I don't sport the same jeans and tee everyday!
A piece of clothing you'll never part with?
In terms of putting looks together, I try to plan ahead, usually the night before, to ensure I don't sport the same jeans and tee everyday!
A piece of clothing you'll never part with?
Can it be an accessory? My vintage Hermés Kelly I purchased for myself for my 30th birthday, or the dress I wore for it, a vintage Chanel from the Spring 2008 Karl Lagerfeld collection that I found at one of my favourite stores in Paris. There is just something so special about securing scarce vintage pieces and keeping them for a special life moment.
The best style advice you've ever received?
Whenever I put together a look or purchase a new piece, I ask myself 'is this the woman I want to be?'. It never fails me. It forces me to stop and really consider each and every purchase. It has also saved me from many unnecessary impulse purchases.
Summer or winter fashion?
Winter. I love jackets, coats, suiting, knits and tailoring. Sophisticated, clean and put together.
Where in LA are your favourite places to... See? Eat? Stay?
See: The LACMA. Melrose Place. Palisades Village. Malibu beach. Grand Central Market.
Eat: Don't bother with breakfast, LA can't do breakfasts half as good as New Zealand or Australian cafes!
For a casual lunch, Kazu Nori handroll bar is my all time. Lorenzo in Beverly Hills makes the best Italian sandwiches you'll ever have (controversial I know). Edo Bites in the Palisades make the best chicken salad you'll ever eat.
For a casual early evening, Stir Crazy has a delicious light menu and a beautiful natural wine selection. It is THE best. Great White on Melrose is my son's favourite, they're great with kids.
For a more faaaaaancy lunch or dinner, Avra for Greek and Damian for fine dining Mexican. For dinner Funke, Felix or Mother Wolf for incredible Italian. I could go on but just DM me if you want my full list.
Stay: The Edition or the Beverly Hills Hotel if WeHo and Beverly Hills are your vibe, or the Santa Monica Proper on the West Side if you prefer to be closer to the beach and Malibu.
Eat: Don't bother with breakfast, LA can't do breakfasts half as good as New Zealand or Australian cafes!
For a casual lunch, Kazu Nori handroll bar is my all time. Lorenzo in Beverly Hills makes the best Italian sandwiches you'll ever have (controversial I know). Edo Bites in the Palisades make the best chicken salad you'll ever eat.
For a casual early evening, Stir Crazy has a delicious light menu and a beautiful natural wine selection. It is THE best. Great White on Melrose is my son's favourite, they're great with kids.
For a more faaaaaancy lunch or dinner, Avra for Greek and Damian for fine dining Mexican. For dinner Funke, Felix or Mother Wolf for incredible Italian. I could go on but just DM me if you want my full list.
Stay: The Edition or the Beverly Hills Hotel if WeHo and Beverly Hills are your vibe, or the Santa Monica Proper on the West Side if you prefer to be closer to the beach and Malibu.