Pirrie Wright's Fashion Proust Questionnaire
Hat tricks from a timeless beauty. Plus: Pirrie's Paris picks
I know very few people who manage to maintain a true element of mystery in today’s world. Pirrie Wright is one of them.
The New Orleans native taking Paris by storm feels like she just stepped out of a Truman Capote novel. Or maybe a Tennessee Williams play. Actually, a very specific combination of the two with an added originality I can’t entirely place. Parties at Pirrie’s apartment have the eccentric elegance of a Holly Golightly shindig, cigarette cases and Givenchy dresses included. Time and space freeze and you’re just there, listening to Pirrie hold court in her pillbox hat. She’s the definition of timeless.
It almost feels wrong to write some sort of factual biography of Pirrie’s movements to date. I myself can barely keep track of them and anyway, she’s only 24. Plus it’s hard to categorise her. Is Pirrie a PR for Cartier (technically yes), a hostess, an antique collector… a vintage fashion influencer? An it girl? (Don’t love this term, but you get me.) Yes, to all, and none. I dunno, she’s just Pirrie and I’m glad she’s here, because what I can tell you is she’s as easy to get on with as she is remarkably elegant.
One to watch, fashionistas.
Here’s Pirrie’s Fashion Proust Questionnaire:
What is your idea of a perfect outfit?
I typically follow the same formula for daywear that makes me feel the most comfortable. Big coat/jacket, slim pants, and a low heel.
I'm always more focused on my accessories than the clothes - something I am trying to work on!
What is your greatest fashion fear?
It happened to me recently ... pit stains in a light colored silk dress at a very chic event. NEVER again.
What, in hindsight, is the worst outfit you’ve ever worn?
How far back are we talking? I did have a streetwear phase and really, really, really regret a few brightly colored tracksuits.
What is the worst outfit you’ve ever seen on someone else?
In general I think I just hate seeing when someone is clearly wearing something that isn't truly their style / just dressing to keep up with trends. I love seeing people who really express themselves through clothing and have their own vibe.
Which living person’s style do you most admire?
I am so inspired by many of my best friends! Andrea Ricci, Alexis Badiyi, Silvia Dusci... all lovely ladies whose souls and looks I admire
What is your greatest extravagance?
In life? Caviar on eggs in the morning - a cure all!
Fashion-wise it would be my shoe collection, I have far too many but can't resist.
What is your current state of mind with regards to the fashion industry?
I think it feels like people are starting to really dig into archives and want to reference past eras. I love that!
What do you consider the most overrated style virtue?
The cost of an outfit feels like the least important thing.
On what occasion do you lie about someone’s outfit?
Maybe when I try to convince my friends they don't NEED the new pair of shoes? (but we always do).
What is the quality you like most in a man’s outfit?
Good tailoring - but mostly pay attention to shoes.
What is the quality you like most in a woman’s outfit?
When she looks comfortable yet sexy.
Which fashion trend do you most despise?
I really don't like huge sneakers, they feel like a personal attack.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse when describing fashion?
CHIC.
Which runway collection in history was your greatest love?
Weirdly I don't look at many runways. I'm starting to pay more attention. The one still on my mind is the most recent Prada!
When were you happiest with your own look?
In August I celebrated my birthday in Venice wearing my dream custom dress by my lovely friend Fidan Novruzova. We did fittings and sketches remotely, and somehow it was perfect. I slid it on and we both cried. Priceless!
Which designer’s talent would you most like to have?
Alix Barton who designed Gres.
If you could change one thing about your wardrobe, what would it be?
I would put more emphasis on great basics! I get too distracted by very beautiful / very unnecessary things.
What do you consider your greatest achievement, career-wise (so far!)
I've recently signed with an agency which is a sentence I never thought I would say, it feels big!
If you were to die and come back as a fashion item, what would it be?
Oh wow - maybe a diamond encrusted minaudiere from the 20s? I'm flattering myself here.
Where on earth do you get the most style inspiration?
From books! Every Saturday I go to a vintage book store to feed my collection, and constantly find inspiration in old fashion magazines.
What is your most treasured possession?
My grandmother's sterling silver hand mirror that I keep on my vanity. It has the date engraved and the name of the ball at which she was gifted it.
What do you consider the lowest depth of fashion rock-bottom (ie. Karl’s sweatpants)
I would have to agree with Karl's sentiment on sweatpants. I can't say I don't own a pair ... but you will never see them on me!
What is your favourite fashion-related occupation?
A fashion archivist or historian
What is your most marked style characteristic?
I think it would be the vintage touches that I always include. I usually try to make sure that no one could tell I am living in 2025, although many things end up giving it away!
Who is your style hero in fiction?
Daisy Buchanan or Holly Gollightly!
Which historical figure’s style do you most identify with?
At the moment I would have to say Natacha Rambova. A costume designer and dancer who was quite famous in the 20s/30s
Which individual that you know (or have known) personally most influenced your style?
I would say both of my grandmothers. Both had very different styles, yet embodied such a divine femininity! I cherish the photos that I have of them.
My favorite picture is of my grandmother Ruth wearing the chicest hat and fabulous tailoring.
What would you like to wear to your own funeral?
I think I would wear a flowy kaftan dress from the 20s and a great silk turban. And a solid gold Cartier evening bag!
What is your style motto?
Romanticize every outfit for every occasion.
…And now for Pirrie’s Paris picks —A Your Woman in Paris guest edit! Find her favourite places to shop, eat, drink etc. below…