“I feel like if you buy a few really good pieces they should last you forever,” says Butter Wakefield, one of London’s most in-demand garden designers, of her clothes-shopping mantra. “That’s how I design, too – do it once, do it right, do it properly. Use reclaimed materials when you can. Buy British where you can. I try to run my life, my studio and my wardrobe in the same way.”
Over the past 15 years Wakefield’s work has won countless awards, including a Royal Horticultural Society gold medal at Chelsea Flower Show, and she’s been named in House & Garden’s annual top 50 designers list for six years in a row. Her client list includes designers Matilda Goad and Rita Konig, and actor Keeley Hawes.
“There are certain elements that might appear regularly, but I’d like to think that one of my unique selling points is that each project is very different,” Wakefield says. And though she admits to being a fan of the practical and the functional, her bold personal style veers far from the earth-toned outdoors wear usually associated with the garden. “I like a layered look. I like different textures and colours and patterns. Men’s clothes, actually, are just so great. Really good pockets everywhere. Oh, and it has to be warm because I’m always cold.”
RINGS
“I do like oversized pieces of jewellery. And I like nothing to match. There’s also a family signet ring – well, husband’s family. We got divorced but the ring stayed. That’s okay, isn’t it?”
BLOUSE AND KNITTED TANK
“Both of these, which I like to pair together, are made by Penelope Chilvers, who I love. She also makes the comfiest boots.”
TROUSERS
“These are quite new Toast jeans, so I’m just wearing them in. I’m a big Toast fan; everything is beautifully made.”
TRAINERS
“Gucci for Adidas. They’re so, so comfortable – I live in them. I’ve got a pink pair too.”
NECKLACE
“The necklace is made by my American friend Nora Brookfield. When I wear it, I’m immediately connected to her. She’s stopped making jewellery now but I’m hoping she’ll start it up again.”
WATCH
“The watch is Omega. I love it. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve scraped it carrying heavy plants and things, and yet it’s still absolutely perfect.”
This article first appeared in the third issue of Broadsheet London's magazine. Here's where to find a copy.
