My Luxury Life: Monique Lhuillier

The fashion designer and philanthropist is best known for her elegant bridal wear. Monique Lhuillier trained at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles, which is where she currently lives with her husband and two children

Monique Lhuillier.
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If you could wake up anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you be?

Capri, no question. It is the most picturesque place I have ever experienced. The natural beauty of shimmering blue waters and precipitous landscape combined with tiny cobbled streets and quaint restaurants make for a supremely romantic experience. With a splendid veranda overlooking the historical Fuorlovado Street, Ristorante Aurora is my favourite restaurant. Over a century old, this restaurant boasts the title of “gastronomical museum”.

You’re sitting down to the perfect dinner. Where are you, what are you eating and who is with you?

I would be sitting in Venice at Ristorante Da Ivo with my family. Such a quaint restaurant, accessible by boat or foot, you need a reservation as there are only 10 tables. I dream about eating their pasta Bolognese and signature stuffed fried zucchini flowers.

Which grooming product or treatment do you swear by?

I use Moroccan Oil Treatment after I shower; it has the unique quality of immediate absorption into the hair, creating an instant shine without leaving an oily residue.

Where are your favourite shops or shopping districts?

Avenue Montaigne in Paris. Céline is my favourite store.

What was your first-ever luxury purchase?

I bought a Birkin in olive green.

What is your most treasured possession?

My family.

How do you spend your spare time?

The benefit of living in California is that I can be outdoors all the time. It is such a great time for not only me personally, but my family. We love hiking in Franklin Canyon Park near our house and walking on the beach.

What is your most memorable fashion moment?

When we opened our first retail store in Los Angeles, I really felt I had made it as a designer.

What is the most played music on your iPod right now?

Pharrell's Happy is playing on repeat; it instantly puts a smile on my face. My kids love it, too.

What’s your top piece of fashion advice?

Always invest in great fabrics but most importantly select timeless pieces that are comfortable yet make you feel beautiful.

What is your biggest fashion no-no?

Wearing too much make-up; I think it’s a major distraction.

what is your number-one recommendation for women looking for the perfect wedding dress?

Be open-minded. The wedding dress process is different for everyone but most brides end up wearing a dress they never thought they would. Trying on all different types of styles helps you narrow down what looks best on you and makes you 100 per cent certain when you find “The One”.

sdenman@thenational.ae