Style Files: Tess Bruns On Finding Your Spark
As her Instagram handle proposes, Phoebe Philo was the start of Tess Bruns’ fashion obsession and more.
By Gracia Phang - published
Based in Texas, the 42-year-old content creator is also the creative director of her husband’s real estate firm. Tess Brun’s Instagram handle, @phoebephilofan speaks her truth, while her evolving style shows off her inspirations and interpretations through eclectic yet personable fits.
While she collects and has a deep admiration for Phoebe Philo’s designs and what she stands for, that same reverence extends to Miuccia Prada, Amy Smilovic, and Louise Trotter—all of whom Bruns believes are redefining an elevated wardrobe for the modern woman that is practical, empowering, and creative. Her current obsessions? Anything sheer, fringed, or netted, in order to create interesting, layered looks without having to wear bulky layers in a warmer climate.
Related article: Style Files: Ting Ma On Defying Stereotypes
Start of It All
“I remember a colleague showing me Céline’s fall/winter 2012 collection. I was taken with Phoebe Philo’s use of colour, especially the deep wine with electric blue. At the time, I didn’t have the money to afford designer fashion, but that collection impacted me. I didn’t start collecting Céline until a few years later, and was officially obsessed.”
Building Blocks
“My style is constantly changing and evolving. Right now, I’d describe it as creative, eclectic, and modern. I like to experiment with trends—layer pieces in new and unique ways; and experiment with colours. On a daily basis, I don’t plan my outfits in advance. Instead, I start with a piece I want to wear and build my outfit around that item”
Related article: Phoebe Philo Is Actually, Finally, Back
In Admiration
“Grece Ghanem is the embodiment of “style has no age”. As a 50+ woman, she knows who she is and fearlessly expresses herself through her personal style.”
Playing Favourites
“To be honest, my favorite pieces change over time. I tend to “rediscover” pieces in my closet and style them in new ways. That’s the magic of Phoebe’s timeless designs. My current favorites are the caftan, horsebit belt, and white eyelet bag (coincidently all from Spring 2018).”
Related Article: 8 Vintage Stores in Singapore for Luxury Shopping
Cart Out
“My last purchase was a pair of yellow Prada ‘origami’ slingback pumps. Still on my wish list is the Prada buckle bag with circle appliqués from the spring/summer 2024 runway. I’m obsessed!”