Sabina Savage Discusses Her Essential Winter Wardrobe

The designer shares her premier style recommendations for the upcoming season.

In 2014, Sabina Savage established her brand of meticulously hand-illustrated scarves and apparel following her studies in couture in Paris, and she has since emerged as a prominent luxury designer in Britain. She outlines her winter wardrobe principles, stylistic inspirations, and strategies for assembling the ideal ensemble.

Daily Attire?

I escort my puppy, Little Gin, through Hackney Marshes each morning to get at my studio. This refers to flat footwear, such as my reliable Church’s Binder Brogue boots acquired at a bargain secondhand, or my currently worn-out Miu Miu loafers. That represents the extent of my practicality; I do not possess jeans or trainers. I frequently rely on solid colours for extended studio sessions, however I enjoy experimenting with intriguing layers, textures, and accessories, such as a robust shoe paired with a delicate ankle sock and miniskirt, a fluffy mohair combined with fine silk, or substantial quilting over a lightweight layer like a sheer Simone Rocha skirt. Our 42cm silk twill scarves are my perennial choice throughout the year; a touch of patterned silk at the neck may enhance any ensemble.

Fashion inspiration?

I am attracted to those with an unconventional style; an element of surprise in their attire. I am fortunate to travel for work and frequently derive inspiration from seeing others. The street style in Tokyo is particularly captivating, while New Yorkers exhibit a remarkably diverse aesthetic.

Preferred items?

Winter presents an excellent opportunity for fashion, allowing for diverse styling and layering without the concern of overheating. I am an aficionado of quality knitwear, such as a thick sweater from Soft Goat, elegantly draped around the neck and complemented by a silk headscarf. I appreciate a well-structured or relaxed coat made from heavy wool or cashmere, often vintage; my preferred piece is a long, grey men’s wool dressing gown featuring a rope trim and tasselled waist tie. Additionally, Uma Wang’s Callie Coat in black mustard wool and mohair is exquisite.

Aesthetic of rural or country style?

I was raised in rural Somerset, where my youth and adolescence were predominantly characterised by jodhpurs, riding boots, and waxed jackets. I continue to return whenever possible and rely on the dependable navy Barbour I have possessed since I was twelve. The conventional country aesthetic does not align with my style; therefore, I incorporate a handful of bold rings or a subtle tulle rollneck emerging from under a substantial Aran sweater.

An evening out on the town?

This serves as a justification to don my more ostentatious footwear - still flat, however typically adorned or exceedingly impractical, such as my raw silk flats by Sleeper or reliable Alberta Ferretti mules. I frequently utilise a silk scarf as a top or dress, play with materials such as our new silk velvet garments, and consistently incorporate statement jewellery.

Obscure labels?

Over the course of 11 years managing my business, I have encountered numerous exceptional designers whose work I might not have otherwise discovered. I regard some jewellery designers as among the finest in their domain. For instance: Ariana Boussard Reifel, Alighieri, Tessa Metcalfe, Castro Smith.

Timeless or trend-driven items?

I do not deliberately contemplate either; I make decisions based on my emotions rather than my intellect. I predominantly purchase second-hand items on eBay, Vinted, designer resale platforms like Vestiaire Collective, flea markets (notably Shepton Flea and Chelsea Flea in New York), as well as vintage and thrift stores throughout my travels.

Style shortcuts or techniques?

I own my bias, nevertheless I firmly contend that a silk scarf is the quintessential accessory, particularly while abroad. Lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and adaptable, they can elevate the most ordinary appearance or serve as the defining look. They provide warmth or shield your shoulders from the sun. The selected print might possess particular significance, and with judicious selection, a single scarf can provide a multitude of possibilities.