MY CLOSET
Dimitra Silverman
My mother, Dimitra, is a stylish woman.
She doesn’t follow trends – if anything, she will do the polar opposite of what is trending. You will never see Dimitra sporting a status handbag or anything with a logo. However, she appreciates well-made clothes and knows her fashion history.
Dimitra loves to play, adores vintage, and has always supported small boutiques. She is drawn to the avant-garde and is inspired by different cultures.
One of our favorite things to do together is to go shopping…well, let’s call it window shopping. It’s a pastime we have enjoyed since I was a young girl. Our shopping excursions are about “seeing what is out there,” as my mother says. Mostly, looking for inspiration. If purchases are made, they are well-considered.
Dimitra is proof that you do not need to spend large amounts of money or have endless items… to be the most stylish woman in the room.
– Simone Silverman♥
– as told to The Silver Women
FAVORITE ITEM IN YOUR CLOSET?
Vintage Native American necklace.
Travel has been a constant source of inspiration. I have visited the USA with my husband numerous times over the past 30 years. Our daughter lives in New York City and we always include another stop on the way when visiting her. New Mexico is was one of my favorite places. I have always loved Native American jewelry. I purchased my vintage Navajo Squash Blossom necklace from an antique market in Santa Fe. I have now owned it for 28 years and wear it at least once a week. This necklace kick-started my cherished jewelry collection. I am a maximalist and like to layer and wear as many pieces at one time. People hear me before they see me.
“I am a maximalist and like to layer and wear as many pieces at one time.”
DRESS
I was holidaying in Port Douglas, Queensland about 4 years ago. I bought this pretty African print sundress from a wonderful boutique in the area.
JEWELRY
I enjoy layering all my jewelry.
The wooden heart was from a craft shop that I threaded on a leather strip.
All the different Native American jewelry pieces were either purchased in NY at Metropolitan Arts and Antique Pavillion
on West 19th Street or at different markets and shops over the world.
DO YOU HAVE AN ITEM IN YOUR CLOSET THAT
IS OVER 20 YEARS OLD?
So many items. My black embroidered fringed scarf, which I bought at a textile store, 40 years ago. It can be worn and styled in different ways from a ’20’s flapper vibe to Frida Kahlo inspired. Frida is a great inspiration.
EARRINGS
These beautiful earrings were a gift from my daughter 10 years ago. I always receive compliments when I wear them. They are from ‘Jose and Maria Barrera’
TROUSERS
Black silk embroidered wide-leg trousers purchased over 10 years ago from the Sarah Jane store in Newtown, Sydney.
Also, a jacket bought at a thrift store 45 years ago. I don’t know its origin, but I adore its bohemian ethnic vibe.
It seems I’m drawn to fringe!
BOOTS
I love my Blundstone boots. Summer, Autumn, Winter, and Spring. I have worn them for over 30 years. They are comfortable and give a little edge.
JEANS
Vintage Lee bootcut jeans.
“I cherish and take care of all my clothes.”
YOUR LATEST SPLURGE?
Shoes-Nike Air Force 1
I consider any unnecessary purchase a splurge.
DRESS
I purchased it at the Dress For Success benefit sale. There is no label, it’s impeccably made and one of my favorite dresses.
WHO/WHAT HAS INFLUENCED YOUR STYLE?
Rita Hayworth in the film Gilda. Faye Dunaway’s wardrobe in Bonnie and Clyde. I am greatly inspired by the ’20s. I adore anything Art Deco, hence why I am a fan of ‘Miss Fishers Murder Mysteries’ I want every outfit worn by the glamorous private detective character Phryne Fisher (actress Essie Davis). And lastly the great Frida Kahlo.
FAVORITE DESIGNERS / BRANDS?
Akira Isogawa- I love his prints and heavily inspired Asian silhouettes. I think Cos does great everyday pieces that have interesting shapes. I enjoy my food therefore I am not a fan of clothes being too form-fitting. If the budget allowed, I would have so many Dries Van Noten items. His designs are hands down my favorite.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN ON YOUR BEST- DRESSED LIST?
Tilda Swinton is fashion royalty in my opinion. I think the young actress Rooney Mara has fantastic style. I’m always interested to see what she is wearing on the red carpet.
IS THERE AN ITEM YOU CURRENTLY HAVE YOUR EYE ON?
A custom made Tuxedo.
♥
Dimitra Silverman photographed in Sydney, Australia.
All Images by Simone Silverman.
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