Elle Strauss: Fashionista Mum
This week, the gorgeous Elle Strauss, fashion and editorial director/stylist and consultant, shares a little snippet into her life as a mom of two young girls, Imogen and Honor. Originally from Britain and now in LA, we are slightly obsessed with her feminine yet edgy style which now includes her 14k gold Tiny Tags necklace.
TINY TAGS: When did you first realize you wanted to work in the fashion industry?
ELLE: I think since my subscription to Barbie magazine! Lol. Actually, I was 20 years old at university in England and it was a part of my degree to pursue work experience. I had an aunt who lived in Los Angeles (a successful set designer and art director), so I flew out to LA and spent a couple months on her team working on commercials. This was before the internet and styling/fashion reality shows, so when I discovered the wardrobe department there, knew it was for me! Once back home in London, I applied to work at Elle Magazine and began the day after graduation.
TINY TAGS: Your career has spanned over 15 years and has brought you all over the world. What has been your favorite role and why?
ELLE: Honestly, each role has brought its own wonderfulness and challenges. But, I think my favorite role is probably Fashion and Style Director at Shopbop. It’s such a great team and the learning curve for me was huge and super rewarding.
TINY TAGS: What are your ‘must have’ fashion items? Has it changed since you become a mom?
ELLE: My style hasn’t changed since I’ve had my babies, although I probably wear more flats. “Must haves” still include a great pair of high-waisted jeans (probably FRAME), striped top (St. James) or a white t-shirt (Hanes), gold hoop earrings (Ariel Gordon), camel coat (M.PATMOS) or a trench coat (vintage Burberry), and of course my Tiny Tags necklace.
TINY TAGS: You are from Britain and have been in NY since 2007, but have recently moved to LA. How has that transition been for you and your family?
ELLE: I won’t lie—it’s been hard! Instagram shows everything in such a rose-tinted light, and whilst I do love it here, I miss the energy of NYC. The LA sunshine is definitely helping though and I really have to remind myself how bad that F train was!
TINY TAGS: Your husband is photographer, James Dimmock. Where did you meet and what are the advantages of being married to a photographer?
ELLE: Lol. Literally tonight my daughter said, “It’s funny how daddy’s a photographer, yet you take all the pictures!” I do take the majority of the photos, but James steps in from time to time and takes one that needs to be framed. So, that is rather lovely. James and I met on set in 2001. I worked at the magazine, The Face, as a fashion assistant and he was shooting a story. We had noticed each other, but were both in relationships. It wasn’t until 2005 that I saw him again at the GQ Man of the Year Party at the Opera house in Covent Garden, London. James had shot the cover and I used to work for the magazine. The rest is history.
TINY TAGS: How has becoming parents changed your relationship?
ELLE: We’re definitely stronger. Having kids is definitely not the most romantic thing to ever happen. It’s like one big test and you have to learn to work together as a team. James is an absolutely amazing dad. I think I fell in love with him even more when I see how brilliant he is with them.
TINY TAGS: How would you describe your girls, Imogen and Honor? Do they have your love of fashion already?
ELLE: Honor is a nightmare …lolol… in a good way. She literally won’t leave the house if she feels her shoes don’t match her outfit or if the color is off. The apple does not fall far. Imogen at 2.5 is too little, so I still get to put her in what I want… for now!
TINY TAGS: Describe your perfect day.
ELLE: Firstly, anything that involves more sleep and a latte. But, I think it’s probably going to the beach with the girls. Growing up in England I could never take California’s weather for granted.
