Tusting Talks to… Tilly Wheating

Tell us about your career to date?

Like most people in the industry, I started my career as an intern, working in the fashion cupboards of amazing publications.

I was given the opportunity to work for a magazine that I had always loved because of the dream-like editorials that they create and so for the last 9 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been my work home and family. Over the years I have had the chance to work with top brands, models and photographers on beautiful editorials I will always be proud of.

My career has also led me to become a brand consultant, guiding a variety of exciting brands on their campaigns and content creation, and I’m also a VIP stylist, collaborating with actresses on their red carpet and event looks. I’ve always loved working on new projects, so it’s great how this gives my working week a nice bit of variety.

What enticed you into the world of fashion?

When I was younger, fashion was really the only thing I was interested in. I was always designing and making clothes, embroidering and embellishing pieces I already owned. So, a degree in Fashion Design, for me, was a no brainer and I learnt so much going down this route. It gave me a real insight in to the depths of the fashion industry and how tough it can be. Not wanting to lose the hands on and creative side, becoming a Fashion Stylist was a brilliant way for me to still handle and style beautiful designs that had inspired me over the years.

You styled Tusting’s AW23 shoot, which is your favourite bag for the season and how would you style it?

One of my favourite bags from the shoot is the Mini Hazel Hobo, the leather is gorgeous, and the new colours are perfect for an Autumnal day. I’d style the Hazel hobo cross body with a chunky knit jumper, wool kilt, chunky socks and boots. I was also obsessed with the With Nothing Underneath Holdall (coming soon) – it’s the dream collaboration and the perfect bag for your weekend getaways.

What does quality mean to you?

Quality, to me, in the materialistic term, is anything you can use over-and-over again that you just know will last a lifetime. A staple, which you don’t have to be overly precious about because the materials used, and the craftsmanship will stand the test of time. There’s nothing better than clothes or accessories being handed down the generations and taking on a new life as they go.

What are your ultimate styling tips?

Always add a little bit of your own personality to your look; something that makes you smile and recognisable to others. It’s easily done with your favourite hair accessory, piece of jewellery, bag or shoes…for me this means tying one of my thousands of ribbons in my hair and I am rarely seen without one.

How do you like to spend your weekend?

Having just moved from the city to the Cornish coast, our weekends are still full of exploring. Cornwall is a very artisanal and entrepreneurial county. Not only is there an incredible food scene, but the shops are filled with amazing fashion, homeware and furnishings, all the way up and down the coast. There is always something to do; from long walks with my dog, cold water swimming and beach BBQs to getting lost in the quirky towns and villages.