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  • Perfect Wardrobe

Poppy Sexton-Wainwright

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If you’re a fan of chic pyjamas, the chances are you’ve heard of Poppy Sexton-Wainwright. She and ASCENO co-founder Lauren Leask have reshaped the concept of sleepwear with luxurious pieces that can be worn both in bed and out of it.

Launched in 2014, ASCENO has since expanded into ready-to-wear, which comes with the signature relaxed polish and versatility that has earned the brand scores of fans. Perfect silk slips, organic cotton co-ords, beautiful linen shirting – take pieces to the beach, wear at home with casual basics, then dress them up for dinner.

Poppy’s personal style is just as effortless. As a mother of two, as well as a business owner, she’s no stranger to getting ready quickly, but always looks put together thanks to her uniform of quality staples, elevating accessories and statement heroes. We found out more about her approach to dressing as we took a look through her wardrobe.

1

My style is uncomplicated and easy. I wear a lot of black, grey, navy and white. When I do add colour, it’s through tonal and bright linens during the summer, and always silk pyjamas in the winter.

2

Our heritage is in silk pyjamas and the relaxed, effortless energy one has when wearing them. They are designed to be versatile; worn at home to relax or entertain in, or when travelling.

3

I don’t wear heels often, but when I do I like simple, unfussy styles. This summer, I’m into shades of green; I love the pop of colour they bring to a look. I don’t like outfits to feel too complicated, so heels with a simple silk slip or tailored trousers and an oversized jacket is a look I go for if I need to dress up.

4

One of my favourite ASCENO pieces is the Lisbon dress. It is effortless and understated, yet something about it makes you feel put together. It’s perfect for morning trips to the market, hot days in the city or for barefoot beach evenings. I always travel with one.

5

At this point in my life, my daytime bags need to either hold a laptop and a diary or nappies and snacks. Both mean a large, roomy style is necessary. However, in the evening, I want a tiny bag just for a phone and a lipstick. I tend to go for black then I know they will go with everything.

6

I am a lover of slides; I wear my 1774 leather black Birkenstocks far too much. I need comfort in shoes as I spend a lot of the day on my feet. Khaite, Jil Sander and JW Anderson are also staples in my slide collection.

7

All of my jewellery is gold, apart from my engagement ring. I have some bespoke pieces from Ming in West London, including  an earring, necklace and wedding ring, which I wear every day. They’re some of the few gifts from my husband I haven’t exchanged. My friend has a brand called By Pariah, and I love my chunky gold ring from there. The gold bracelet I’m wearing was a gift from my mum for my 30th birthday. I never take it off.

8

Clearly, I love a gold hoop, and I don’t really stray from them when it comes to earrings. I have many pairs in different sizes.

9

I love a thick, structured pair of jeans. At the moment, my favourites are my straight leg, high-rise Abigail pair from Khaite.

10

A silk pyjamas suit is the ultimate in understated ease. I wear them all the time as they make me feel relaxed yet put together. This is a new print from our autumn/winter collection which is launching mid-August.

11

I tend to wear shoes I like on repeat, so trainers in winter and slides in the summer. These Jil Sander slides are so comfortable, they’re like walking on clouds. They dress up a casual look and I love the deep burgundy tone.

12

We only use 100% organic and sustainable linen in our collections. We believe it’s our responsibility as a consumer business to produce as ethically as possible. It won’t always be perfect, but we are committed to making the necessary changes to reduce any negative impact. Some of my favourite linen pieces include our Ibiza dress – which I’m wearing here in papaya orange – the Formentera shirt and our linen shorts-and-shirt sets. I wear these staple pieces again and again in London, or when travelling.

13

I love potions. I like the ritual of applying serums, moisturisers, oils and masks. It’s the only time of the day just for me. I also like the idea that they might help me look youthful and less tired.

14

Sunglasses hide a magnitude of sins. I always have a pair with me.

15

Our silk collection ranges from pyjamas and slips to day-to-night dresses. The designs are relaxed, the silhouettes simple, chic and effortless. If you can’t wear it in a multitude of settings, then you won’t see it in our collections. We strive to make it easier for women to dress confidently, no matter the occasion.

16

I’ve had these piercings since I was about 21, when I was in New York and visited Maria Tash. I wasn’t allowed to get my ears pierced until I was 16, so it felt quite rebellious. I went back the following year and got a third done – and a fourth the year after that! I don’t wear a lot of bling but I like the sparkle these add.

17

These crystals symbolise my efforts and ambition for a calmer and more spiritual life. I love the idea of meditating and yoga, but in reality, I’m a coffee-and-occasional-spin-class girl. These are all gifts from dear friends, though, so they bring me joy.

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