Elspeth graduated from the London College of Fashion in 2006, after internships at Dazed & Confused and British Vogue she returned to Belgium to persue a career as fashion editor for Marie Claire Belgium and a freelance menswear stylist for the band Balthazar and comedian Xander De Rycke. We at Labellov love her personal style so we jumped at the chance to interview her about her love for vintage fashion and designer bags.

Elspeth Jenkins

What is your favorite luxury indulgence? 

Champagne. I just can't get enough.

How often do you detox your wardrobe?

Quite often. I keep the good stuff though.

What was your first designer purchase?

A pair of Prada thong sandals at Coccodrillo. They were Japanese inspired. Circa 1999.

What is the one designer bag you can’t live without & why is it so special?

I have a penchant for designer bags and am lucky enough to own a few very special items. Let’s say there’s a bag that is special because it proved to be an amazing investment piece over the years. Another one is truly one that stole my heart instantly.

On her best investment piece:

I love my Chanel caviar bag. I bought it a year after my graduation from London College of Fashion in 2007. As a celebration treat. It cost 60% less at full retail in SN3 back then, compared to what they go for now.

On the one she can't live without:

My red Prada bag. I'm a Prada fan, but walked in the Kiki Niesten store in Maastricht one day to purchase a Céline box bag. They didn't have the exact cherry red that I was looking for, and I didn't plan to buy another bag until I spotted this classic bag in the perfect red on my way out. So I had to get it. I never got to purchase the Céline box bag, and now I'm not too sad about the fact I never did.

Where does your love for vintage come from?

From when I lived and interned at magazines in London. The UK is miles ahead of Belgium when it comes to amazing vintage. I never really purchased vintage designer bags, but I love love love vintage dresses and coats. I used to go to Camden Stables Market everyday to pick up amazing bargains. But I also loved high end designer vintage stores like Rellik in Ladbroke Grove, when I lived in the area. Portobello Market on Friday mornings is still a favourite.

First fashion memory?

My mom used to own a boutique. I remember the rails full of beautiful maxi evening dresses by Vera Mont in the 80's.

How do you describe your style and did it evolve over the years?

I used to call my style: granny chic. But I'm quite into Modest fashion. I love the edit at themodist.com

Which designer bag is on your wishlist? 

A black Hermès Birkin bag in the iconic size 35. The ultimate classic. Not one celeb managed to ruin it for me in the 15 years I've been lusting after this iconic bag.

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