Stylist and British Vogue Editor Honey Sweet Elias lives by Portobello Road in London. She went straight from college to working as a Fashion Assistant.
Where did you grow up?
Just outside of West London, in-between Oxford and here.
How did you fall into fashion?
I think it was the love I had for my parent's closet. I’ve always been surrounded by music & fashion whilst I was growing up. They had so much confidence wearing wonderful pieces. It always seemed effortless, so inspired me to see what I could do.
What is your daily routine?
I wake up early to walk my dog. I always intend to get to work half an hour early, sometimes an hour early. Otherwise, I feel I’m late and on the back foot for the day. I then focus consistently on my current shoots.
Biggest challenge of your job?
Everyday is a challenge; how else would I grow and get better at what I do?
Proudest achievement?
Believing that I'm capable and can achieve as much as others can in the environment I work in.
Who or what inspires you?
Surrounding myself with people who have passion, aspirations & brave dreams. In my generation (I’m 27) it’s harder to find real dedication and commitment in the work place. Meeting someone whose main focus isn’t money or fame is refreshing.
Describe your current projects
Big global editorials; involving frantic production and lofty ambitions!
Do you have a daily uniform?
Two: Clean suit trousers and a simple black or white tee-shirt, or grey jogging bottoms with a tee-shirt and blazer.
Whose style do you admire?
I don’t admire one style. I admire someone that can enter a room with confidence and you know feels comfortable in what they are wearing regardless of a designer label.
What does fashion mean to you?
It’s the sense of ownership you can give yourself. You harness your own personality with what you wear. To me that’s fundamental.
What would you have been in another life?
Something within the music industry. It’s always fascinated me.
Favourite designer?
Alexander McQueen. He just had it. A true genius.
Whats keeps you motivated daily?
Being around creative & really hard working people that never want to stop pushing to make our industry the best it can be. Individuals who want to do more, say more, and be more than what they were yesterday.
Last item of clothing you added to your wardrobe?
My trusty Prada cable knit grey cardigan.
What is your personal style signifier?
Tracksuits & Nike trainers with a heavy coat or bomber jacket.
What values do you look for in a clothing brand?
Extremely well-made, thought-through clothing. You know a good brand when items fit you to perfection as it’s taken hours to ensure the stitching is just perfect or the button is put in a certain place.
What is your most treasured item of clothing?
A Bottega Veneta vest jacket I saved up for over the course of many weeks. That’s when I knew I worked hard enough: to be able to treat myself to something exceptional in my closet.
Where is your happy place?
Martha’s Vineyard. It’s my second home.
Which living person do you admire the most?
My younger brother Sonny. I’ve been in awe of him ever since I became his sister. He’s an extremely special human being and very important figure in my life.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Never saying No, and my OCD.
Rule to live by?
Take every day as it comes, you’re doing the best you can. Own every emotion you are feeling, good or bad - don’t try and push anything away.
Advice you’d give your teenage self?
Have the confidence to believe that you are capable and worthy of something great in this world. Never stop working towards the goals you want to achieve.
Soundtrack to your life?
- Pink matter by Frank ocean
- Video by Indie Arie
- Sessions 32 by Summer Walker
- Ain’t no way by Aretha Franklin
- 143 by Musiq Soulchild
- Rule by Nas & Amerie
What would you like your legacy to be?
Legacy is a weird one. I suppose for people after me to remember that they are important and destined for greatness in what ever they turn their hand to. Basically think big, and you will be big. Think small and you’ll stay small.
