Carla Anderson on Embracing Minimalism, Quality, and Androgynous Style

My style is distinctly European, drawing from Italian, English, Scandinavian, and French influences. I’m naturally drawn to an androgynous silhouette—pieces that blend structured tailoring with fluid movement. I gravitate toward minimalistic, chic looks that feel timeless, versatile, and, above all, comfortable. I love embracing both my feminine and masculine sides, creating looks that exude confidence, strength, and individuality. Hats, one of my favorite accessories, add an element of surprise and instantly change the mood of an outfit.

I deeply respect tradition and the thoughtfulness of dressing for the occasion. Whether I’m preparing for horse riding, sporting clay shooting, attending a gala, or enjoying an evening at the opera, I embrace the beauty of honoring tradition through attire that reflects the moment. To me, dressing thoughtfully is about striking a balance between personal expression and timeless sophistication—it’s an art form that deserves respect.

At the heart of my wardrobe is the power suit. I truly believe every woman should own one. For me, a suit is so much more than just an outfit—it’s a symbol of confidence, versatility, and strength. I favor two distinct styles: one tailored for a refined, feminine fit and another that leans into a more androgynous silhouette, embodying boldness and individuality. The power suit transcends trends; it’s timeless and ensures I feel poised and purposeful no matter the occasion.

My biggest fashion influences come from architecture, design, and travel. Experiencing different cultures and seeing how design varies across the world inspires me. I’m constantly drawn to the lines, shapes, and color palettes in buildings and interiors. A beautifully designed space or even a striking piece of furniture can spark ideas for how I approach fashion.

My go-to looks: Straight-cut denim by AGOLDE or Citizens of Humanity, paired with a men’s cashmere knit by Falconeri or a crisp white shirt from brands like Toteme and Filippa K. For date nights, I usually reach for an ankle length silk slip dress in solid neutral colors, to keep it feminine yet simple. If the evening is more formal, I’ll wear my Manolo Blahnik crystal heels.

My idea of investing in wardrobe staples isn’t limited to luxury brands. While I appreciate designer pieces, I often find myself drawn to niche or lesser-known labels that offer exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship. If I come across a standout piece from a brand like Massimo Dutti, I’ll invest because it’s the value in the design and materials that matters most—not the label.

Coats and outerwear are foundational pieces I like to invest in, as they are often the first impression of an outfit. A well-designed coat in the right fabric can elevate any ensemble. My Toteme trench coat and long coats by Magda Butrym are my trusty go-tos.

Some of my go-to brands are Saint Laurent, Falconeri, and Bazilika—each offers high-quality, timeless designs that speak to my minimalist aesthetic. I adore AGOLDE for its variety in denim, and CHPTR-S for trousers that strike the perfect balance between modernity and timelessness. Manolo Blahnik and Loro Piana are staples in my footwear collection, while Isabel Marant and Toteme consistently offer basics that elevate any look. Some of my favorite smaller brands are Adigaeta — An exquisite Italian luxury shoe brand. I’m truly captivated by the designer's passion, meticulous attention to detail, and the meaningful story behind each product. I also love Aje – their dresses have a unique balance of structure and elegance.

My shopping philosophy is rooted in investing in quality over quantity. I prioritize timeless, well-made pieces that reflect my personal style and can stand the test of time. While I mix high and low, I’m selective—even lower-end pieces must meet my quality standards. Designer doesn’t always mean better, so I carefully choose items that feel right, whether they’re from established brands or hidden gems. I don’t typically wait for items to go on sale because most of the pieces I invest in are timeless essentials that rarely do.

I don’t follow trends—ever—because trends can steer me away from my philosophy and my own individual style. Fashion has the power to uplift and empower, and I believe in using it as a way to celebrate myself. Recently, I’ve been searching for a classic pussy-bow blouse on Plush. It’s a piece that elevates any outfit, whether paired with tailored trousers for work or jeans for a more relaxed look. I’m specifically looking for one that has the perfect drape and a timeless color, something I know I'll turn to often and that can seamlessly blend with the rest of my wardrobe staples.

Advice to My 20-Year-Old Self: Trust your inner voice; it’s your most reliable guide. Embrace every part of yourself, even the parts that don’t fit neatly into a box. Focus on building confidence and inner strength—true style and success start from within. Learn to say no when things don’t align with your values, and don’t rush to meet societal expectations. Remember, your individuality is your strength.