Stylist Naz Meknat Writes an Open Letter to Her First Style Icon

Photography Provided By: Edward Espinosa Naz Meknat

Dear Audrey,

I’ve come a long way since the days of obsessively watching your films and flipping through your photos, daydreaming of Givenchy’s as perfect as yours. It’s obvious the effortless beauty, grace and class you would put in each and every one of your looks is a gleaming inspiration in how I style myself today. You taught me that fashion isn’t just about what you wear, but about the way you use it to deliver a message. Being the powerful and compassionate woman that you were, it shaped the way I approached my life in addition to my style.

With so many fashion choices and different styles out there, you helped me come to realize that pulling back to the basics of glamour and poise is really all I need as a basis to create an unforgettable look, both for my clients and myself. Your style isn’t about making a scene, but about making a lasting impression, something that invokes inspiration and demands respect–something unforgettable. But perhaps the most important aspect your sense of style has taught me is that above all, it should look effortless. Sometimes the simplicity of a turtleneck, a pair of fitted crop pants and classic pumps is chicer than a complicated dress, and you’ve proved that in every stage of your life. And of course, I’ll never forget the most important accessory you carved into my brain—not a necklace, hat or earrings, but a smile.

I must owe it to you; my knack for consistency in all my styling is thanks to you.

“Why change? Everyone has their own style. When you have found it, you should stick to it.” These words ring true after all these years, and because you inspired me, my work has grown organically into its own and has never strayed from my vision, which mirrors your essence of being effortless-but-chic and completely timeless.

When you dreamed of beautiful clothes, I dreamed right there with you. I love you and I hope that I can shape the way fashion is integrated into a person’s everyday life the way you did for me.

Love Always,

Naz