Annie Watt is one of the most sought after society event photographers on the New York social scene, capturing images of some of the most stylish people of New York City.
In 2014, Annie celebrated a solo exhibition of her photography, featuring more than 300 photographs of celebrities, high-society philanthropists, and socials at the Galerie Pierre Dumonteil on Park Avenue. All the proceeds were donated to the American Heart Association. She is sharing with us her perspective on style in this week’s Style Diary.
Sibylle Eschapasse: How would you describe your style?
Annie Watt: Classic, feminine, understated, relaxed. My style ... St. John classic knits.
And comfortable Italian shoes—size 12!—which I can find at Marmi on Madison Avenue. I like Vaneli and Sesto Meucci shoes.
Ms. Eschapasse: If a close friend were to describe your personality in three words, what would they be?
Ms. Watt: Chic, functional, versatile.
Ms. Eschapasse: How has your style evolved since you were a teenager?
Ms. Watt: I attended the School of Visual Arts for four years and I painted, so I chose to wear clothes I could wash or toss. After graduation, as my finances improved, I spent my money on the classics.
Ms. Eschapasse: What is the wildest thing you’ve ever worn?
Ms. Watt: I wore lingerie out on the town before it became a popular thing to do. I was thinner and younger at the time.
Ms. Eschapasse: How do you dress on workdays versus weekends?
Ms. Watt: During the week, I wear all black when I am photographing events, and on the weekends, I wear anything but black!
Ms. Eschapasse: What are three accessories you can’t live without, and what’s one item that makes you instantly more confident?
Ms. Watt: I am far-sighted, I like my larger-faced Michael Kors wrist watch.
A large statement necklace—that is the only accessory I need when in doubt.
Good quality ballet flats—I like Tory Burch, I can wear them with anything.
Ms. Eschapasse: Who have been your greatest fashion influences?
Ms. Watt: Carolina Herrera, Ellen Tracy.
Ms. Eschapasse: Who is your style icon?
Ms. Watt: Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn.
Ms. Eschapasse: What does having style mean to you? In other words, please define style.
Ms. Watt: Style is the individual importance of comfort without compromising fashion.
Ms. Eschapasse: What is one purchase you’re most proud of?
Ms. Watt: Custom closets for all my clothes.
Ms. Eschapasse: What would you pay a lot of money for?
Ms. Watt: A custom camera bag that looks like a big purse.
Ms. Eschapasse: What would you never pay much money for?
Ms. Watt: Lipstick!
Ms. Eschapasse: When you go out on the red carpet, how do you want your outfit to make you feel? Which designers can achieve that?
Ms. Watt: I am on the other side of the red carpet, not walking it, I am photographing it.
I appreciate form-fitting clothes, solid colors, no layers.
Ms. Eschapasse: What do you think of how others dress and what’s your advice to people who would like to develop their personal style?
Ms. Watt: Wear what flatters your best features. Don’t be afraid to be the style-creator.
Favorites
Favorite color: Aqua
Favorite perfume: None, I am allergic to most.
Favorite NY restaurant: Keen’s Steakhouse
Favorite drink: Altaneve Prosecco
Favorite movie: “Top Hat,” “Dead Ringer” (starring Bette Davis)
Favorite book: “The Devil Wears Prada” by Lauren Weisberger
Favorite quote: “Those who seek beauty will find it.” Bill Cunningham
Sibylle’s “Style Diary” is a column that explores style from the perspective of choices, and what that means for different people, with personal advice from some of the most stylish people in New York.
Sibylle Eschapasse is from Paris and now lives in Manhattan. She is a journalist and a contributing writer to various publications. Sibylle is also the author of a children’s book, “Argy Boy a New York Dog Tale.” She may be reached at [email protected]
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