In our first ‘Time Spent With’ series, we caught up with Helen the inspiration behind the popular fashion Instagram account and blog, @instyle.by.helen, to talk all things outfit inspiration, fashion mishaps and London Mole favourites.
Please can you tell us a bit about yourself and your Instagram account, what inspired you to start it?
I started my Instagram account as a natural progression from my online blog. In other words I copied what everyone else was starting to do at the time. We are talking about 2013.
How would you describe your style?
My style is quite simple and laid back with occasional rock chick twists or a quick splash of colour (usually green). I am happy to go off on a tangent though, it depends how the mood takes me. I do tend to wear a lot of jeans, but I’m now getting so much better at wearing a dress, especially in the summer months.
Where do you find inspiration for your outfits?
I gain inspo from many accounts on Instagram, particularly some of the French and German ladies that I follow. I have an extensive saved library. I also like to have an occasional trawl through Pinterest, of course. Celebrities don't really feature anymore but I used to love Jennifer Aniston during the 90's.
Are there any fashion trends you’re loving right now?
I adore the advent of the chunky boot, shoe or sandal twisting its way back into the hearts of the fashion pack. There was a time when I wouldn’t have touched a heavier, chunky item of footwear. They are so good at balancing my proportions. I am also a huge lover of linen in the summer. It’s not really a fashion trend, just a must.
Which is your favourite pair of London Mole glasses?
I adore my Tricky reading glasses. I have them in Red, Tortoiseshell and Black and they are all used every day.
What would you consider as your biggest fashion mistake?
Ha-ha! Anything that I wore during my youth. No, I can't actually say that, but I don't think short skirts with opaque tights did me any favours. I have legs that George Best would've been proud of.
What is your proudest achievement to date?
Fashion wise would be growing my Instagram account and turning it into more than just a hobby. In life it would have to be my daughter, although she is currently pushing her luck with me. I blame hormones on both sides!!
What fashion advice would you give to your younger self?
Don't wear the damn miniskirts with the opaque tights chick & pinstripe painted on jeans did you a massive disservice. Plus beware of the man-made fabrics (sweaty).