Laura Cunnningham first came to our attention when she hit the charts with the girl group Trinity. Since the band split over two years ago, she’s established herself as a fashion stylist. Laura is well known for her individual and quirky take on fashion.
You're clearly a fan of fashion. Do you enjoy experimenting with your look?
I am always playing around with fashion and experimenting with different looks. Even if it means looking back and cringing at something that didn't quite work, at least I'm having fun with it. They're only clothes after all, and not to be taken too seriously!
I'm very much a high-street girl, but therein lies the danger of becoming a clone! So I like to put my own personal touch to everything I buy, whether that means customising it slightly or accessorizing it to my own personal style.
Who is your fashion icon or your greatest influence in matters of style?
I admire the style of people like Dita Von Teese and Roisin Murphy; they dance to the beat of their own fashion drum. But I wouldn't dare, or care to copy them. It would be like trying to emulate a great artist. If I had to compare my style to anyone it would have to be Fearne Cotton.
I like the fact that she doesn't look like every other generic TV blonde and she doesn't feel the need to flash the flesh constantly. She experiments with colour and accessories to give her that slight edginess and she isn't afraid to be a little bit 'out there' when the mood strikes her.
What is your essential beauty item that must be in your handbag at all times?
Clarins Beauty Flash Balm; no matter how tired your skin is it gives you a healthy natural complexion. My friend Blanaid introduced me to it a few years back and I honestly don't know what I ever did without it!
What is your favourite item of clothing that you've ever purchased?
I bought a casual hot pink dress in the Vintage section of Urban Outfitters in the sales last year for €7. It looks great belted and worn with a pair of opaque tights. I've worn it to death, I love it! Bargain of the century!
How important is fashion in the world of the music/film industry?
Fashion has always been so important in the music industry where image is everything and in film it plays such a huge part of the stylisation of a movie. But more than ever it's what the stars wear when they're on the red carpet and not on screen or stage that matters the most.
Wearing 'the' dress that everyone talks about the day after an awards ceremony and having your picture splashed all over the world press is an invaluable source of exposure for celebrities and the designers alike. It also influences the high street heavily and in turn us normal folk! And of course a lot of these celebrities are designing their own lines now because they realise the influence they have.
How would you describe your personal style?
I'm very low maintenance! Some days I feel like playing dress up but if I don't, I'm perfectly happy in a pair of jeans! But whatever I wear it's always quick and easy.
Who is your favourite designer? And your favourite high street store?
For Spring/Summer 2009 I love Matthew Williamson, but my all-time favourite has to be Marchesa. Their dresses are just so pretty and fairytale without being tacky.
If I could only shop in one high street store for the rest of my life it would have to be H&M. The choice is endless and they're always bang up to date with trends. I also adore their accessories, they're so affordable. And of course you can't beat Topshop and French Connection!
What is your favourite city to shop in and why?
I put a serious dent in the credit card in Perpignan in the south of France for the last two summers in a row. It has just the right balance of popular high street stores and one-off boutiques. They're dotted around beautiful little cobbled streets with musicians playing under archways and aromatic outdoor cafes. They also have the most amazing array of little quirky jewellery stores. I can't recommend it enough!
What do you feel best wearing?
You can't beat a great pair of boot-cut jeans, killer heels and a crisp white shirt! It's classic, flattering and sexy in an understated way.
What is the best style advice you have been given?
Dress for your shape! It's the obvious one but so many people wear things because they're 'in fashion' or because they love it when they see it on the hanger. It's important to learn how to incorporate trends in to your own personal style, rather than letting them dictate what you wear.
