There is no denying that Louise Roe knows fashion. The British beauty has pulled off countless makeovers as the host of Plain Jane and Style By Jury and covers the red carpet like a champ for Access Hollywood. She even got her start as a features assistant for the UK edition of InStyle (no wonder we love her!).
After all those years in the industry, Roe has finally put all her best style advice in one place by penning Front Roe: How To Be A Leading Lady in Your Own Life ($25; amazon.com). “I’ve had all of these secrets from being on set and working in fashion and I thought—it’s not fair to keep all of this to myself,” says Roe.
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The result is a book that covers it all, from her genius shopping commandments to how much hair product you really need (for creams use a quarter-sized dollop, for serum, only a dime). It’s also full of quick lifestyle tips for being a glamorous hostess, as well as go-to party recipes—like a pear prosecco cocktail that we’re dying to try. Check out Front Roe, on sale today, and scroll down for our style chat with Roe.
What is your earliest fashion memory?
I think it truly started with my granny, bless her. She is 94 now. She was such a style inspiration to me. I also remember dressing up as a little girl and realizing that it made me feel special. Clothes have power and are an expression of you. If you are already a loud, hilarious person, your clothes should reflect that.
How would you describe your personal style now?
Since I’ve moved to L.A., I’m able to wear all of the fun prints and colors I’ve always wanted. My look is very laid back with a high-low mix. Sometimes I look like I’m going to Coachella, even though I’m not (laughs). But I always like a boho, 70s-feel, with an urban twist.
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In your book, you say that you keep an old-school scrapbook with your style inspirations. Is that better than Pinterest?
I still print out pictures from things I find online, but I like the ability to turn a page and write a little quote in there or put an old Polaroid of my mom, who lived in Brazil in the ’70s. It’s comforting to go back to it every few months and remind myself of the styles I love. Front Roe is almost like the grown-up version of my scrapbook.
What other women inspire your style right now?
I am so into bloggers and girls that don’t use a stylist. I love the looks that Aimee Song from Song of Style puts together and Julie Sarinana from Sincerely Jules. She’s a classic California girl. On the red carpet, I love Nicole Richie, who used to be the boho queen but now she’s got a cool punk-chic thing going on. Miranda Kerr is also great, because she doesn’t shy away from being ladylike and playing with prints and color.
You also have a lot to say about beauty. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve uncovered?
You can buy the most expensive beauty products ever, but the best way to make your skin look great is to hydrate from the inside out. I eat an avocado everyday to help plump my skin and give it those natural oils and fat. I also put my favorite skin-brightening smoothie in the book. It works wonders and tastes amazing.
What’s the best fashion advice you’ve ever been given?
My mom always says, “You’re not a Christmas tree.” It’s her version of Coco Chanel’s famous tip of always taking one thing off before you leave the house. Accessories are fun, but simple is often chicer. Think of French woman. They could be wearing jeans, a white shirt, flat loafers, and studs, and they look like a million bucks.
Your book is called Front Roe, so what was the most memorable front-row moment that you’ve had?
It was easily Matthew Williamson‘s spring 2008 show in London. I was friends with the PR girl, so she sat me in the first seat where the models come out. They brought a microphone out and everyone was buzzing about who was going to perform. Suddenly the light go down and Prince appears. Turns out he was also sitting in the front row and started singing from his seat before getting up right in front of me. That was a good one!