Home is …
I live on my own in west London, near Hyde Park. I’ve been here on and off since I was 18. I first grew up in New York City and then moved to the countryside in England, which was a bit of a culture shock. I was always so excited to move to London when I was a child — I’m definitely a city girl at heart.
Where do you stay in London?
It’s not often that I stay at hotels here, but if I did it would be Claridge’s because it’s a classic and serves my favourite afternoon tea.
Where was your first flat?
When I first moved to London, I lived with my grandmother Anita Pallenberg in her flat, which overlooked the Thames. I’ve always enjoyed walking along the Embankment and over the Albert Bridge to Battersea Park, it often reminds me of my grandma.
What was your first job here?
Modelling for Tom Ford. I walked his shows and did shoots with him for years. He was always so kind and inspiring.
Where would you recommend for a first date?
China Tang for a drink. It’s such a great bar. And if it’s going well, you could have a delicious dinner there too.
Which shops do you rely on ?
Rellik on Golborne Road is one of my favourite vintage shops in London. I also love Summerill & Bishop (there’s one on Portland Road, and one near Sloane Square) — it’s definitely on the pricier side but it’s my favourite place to buy pretty things for my home, or gifts for friends and family. I always pop down to Portobello Market for great vintage finds, but also love Selfridges — it has everything you could possibly ever want or need. John Sandoe, just off King’s Road, is the cosiest place to shop for books
I would like to ban all football matches so that my boyfriend would spend more time with me on the weekends
What’s the best meal you’ve had?
Brutto in Farringdon. I went with my best friend and had the most delicious pasta, steak and fennel gratin.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
I would ban all football matches so that my boyfriend would spend more time with me on the weekends.
Who is the most iconic Londoner?
Dame Maggie Smith. She was in all my favourite British films that I watch when I miss home. She embodies so much of what I love about British culture.
What’s the best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?
“Welcome home, love.” It’s my favourite when I land back in London.
Where do you exercise?
I love Pilates, so I usually go to Karve or Heartcore, but I mostly enjoy walking around Hyde Park.
Where do you let your hair down?
Sounds boring, but most of the time it’s at home. But if I’m feeling up to it, Chiltern Firehouse.
Who do you call when you want to have fun?
My girlfriends! They’ll always get me out of the house and it’s fun to get dressed up together, that’s always the best part.
What’s your London secret?
Kempton Market. I’ve found all of my favourite pieces of furniture there. The only problem is, if you want to find the best things, you have to wake up at 5am, so bringing a torch is advised. The real die-hard antique hunters wear headlamps — these are the people you can expect to be getting into an argument with over a kitchen table.
What’s your biggest extravagance?
Vintage clothes, especially dresses from the Thirties or Galliano and Westwood from the Nineties.
I have a large collection of clothes and accessories from the Sixties and Seventies that belonged to my grandmother, Anita Pallenberg. I love trying them on, and then searching for photographs of her wearing the same item
What do you collect?
I have a large collection of clothes and accessories from the Sixties and Seventies that belonged to my grandmother, Anita Pallenberg. One of my favourite things to do is try everything on and look for photographs of her wearing it.
Favourite beauty spot?
I don’t really get facials, but I’ve been seeing my dermatologist, Dr Sam Bunting, since I was 19. For haircuts and colour, I go to Jamie and Federico at Josh Wood.
Who are you currently working with?
As of last year I’ve been an ambassador for Piaget, and I’ve loved working alongside them. Being part of a brand with such a rich history and dedication to craftsmanship is incredibly inspiring.
Who is your hero?
Both my grandmothers. They couldn’t be more different and have lived completely opposite lives, but they’re both incredibly strong and resilient. They’ve both taught me everything I know, from always staying curious and learning new things to history, nature, art and life.
Ella Richards is the face of Piaget watches, piaget.com
