When I hopped on a Zoom call with the charming Clara Amfo, she was in the process of getting her hair re-braided, wearing what Amfo described as her “conversation starter” outfit. This starred an old-school 90s Prince t-shirt that she got off eBay, which has garnered compliments by none other than the Haim sisters.
Amfo comes from humble beginnings – getting her start as a marketing intern at Kiss FM following a media arts and creative writing degree at St Mary’s University College.
While now constantly on the move, whether it be travelling to host movie premieres, award shows or interview specials with some of the planet’s biggest stars, the Kingston upon Thames native stays passionate about the city that she calls home – the culture, fashion, food and - of course - the music.
This is particularly clear in one of her lesser-known projects, a 38-episode-long podcast called ‘This City’. Throughout the podcast, Amfo interviews a series of well-known friends and fellow Londoners to chat about their earliest memories of the bustling capital; sharing tell-all stories of the nights out, night-bus journeys home and more. It makes sense, then, that this five-star rated podcast has given Amfo’s fans a sense of trust in her opinion on all things dating and nightlife-related.
We caught up with the radio host and presenter ahead of the launch of ‘The Pre-Loved Dating Collection’ – a collaboration between Amfo, eBay and Bumble created to guide people on what to wear at every stage of their dating journey, while remaining kind on the bank balance and planet. The collection features clothing items for key dating milestones including the first and third dates, meeting the inner circle, and the activity date.
This partnership seems like a fitting match considering Amfo herself prioritises buying clothing with a high re-wear factor. Unlike the vast majority of red-carpet go-ers, she will proudly repeat outfits that she feels confident in – from a gorgeous Mara Hoffman colour-blocked midi dress, to a classic zipped Vivienne Westwood corset top.
Without further ado, keep scrolling to find out about Clara Amfo’s Favourite Things.
What have you been up to recently?
I’ve been back at work after a little summer break – I went to Mexico, then to Copenhagen to see the Ganni show during Fashion Week. I also went to see Paapa Essiedu’s new play with Taylor Russell at the National Theatre last Saturday night. I’ve just been out and about, living life!
What is your go-to outfit when you have sartorial panic?
I have several. Funnily enough, what I’ve got on now is my go-to comfortable, chill outfit. Everybody who knows me knows how being a Prince fan is integral to my personality. I actually got this vintage Prince t-shirt that I’m wearing – no word of a lie – from eBay in 2016. I’m obsessed with it. It’s a really good conversation starter. When I interviewed the Haim sisters for radio, Este absolutely loved the t-shirt – she was like “I need it”. If I need to turn out a quick look, I’ll pop on this tee, jogging bottoms, a nice coat and a bag – then I’m good to go. I’ve also dressed it up with shorts and high boots.
When it comes to stepping out on the town, I call this Opening Ceremony dress which I’ve had for about seven or eight years, one of my “greatest hits” pieces. I truly believe in cost-per-wear. I love this dress. It’s been repeated many times, and it’ll be repeated many times in the future. It makes me feel confident, like the dancing red dress emoji lady.
What are your pre-event rituals or routines?
Slicking down the edges and making sure the braids are looking lovely and fresh. I’m also a skincare obsessive and I tend to over-moisturise. I feel naked without perfume. At the moment I’m wearing Portrait of a Lady – it’s become a running joke that everyone at Radio 1 can smell when I’ve been in the lift, for good reason.
What are your favourite items in your wardrobe at the moment?
I love Ganni so much, and I’ve been wearing these lightweight cotton trousers by the brand all the time. I cycle a lot, especially to work, and these trousers are just perfect. I’ve got them in black and beige.
When shopping for pre-loved items, where do you browse?
I’m obsessed with Vivian Westwood, and I found a brilliant Westwood seller on eBay. He lives locally to me, so I’ve literally met up with him to get my pieces. Everyone has their different ways of shopping secondhand, and different inspirations – but one of my go-to looks is what I call a “90s sit-com crush”. I love looking for vintage 90s pieces and brands like Cross Colours, Karl Kani and old-school, high-waisted Levi’s. I’ve also got a decent collection of vintage t-shirts – especially old tour merch.
What does your perfect night-out outfit consist of?
I love a good shoe, but I also like to be comfortable if I’m dancing. A classic pair of old-school Nike Blazers or Air Force Ones are both a go-to, and eBay in particular is amazing for finding rare vintage trainers that you may have missed. Don’t tell my mum, but I just love a great trainer paired with a short skirt. As we move into winter, I also love wearing classic black trousers with a corset – good corsetry is unmatched. You’ll never see me out without costume jewellery or a good hoop.
What are your travel must-haves?
One of my biggest flexes is hand luggage only. I always decant everything into miniatures, I need anti-bac at all times, at least one book and a portable charger. I’ll also always bring wired headphones with me when I travel just in case my wireless ones run out.
What are your self-care essentials?
My hot girl walks. I love to walk or ride my bike as much as possible. I really like the alone time, even if it takes me longer. The walk to work is about an hour and forty-five minutes – but as long as I’ve got tunes or a good podcast, I’m happy. That’s my self-care, plus a good massage. There’s a spot called Masaj which is amazing – they’ve always got good music playing.
When it comes to dressing down, what are your favourite loungewear pieces?
Give me a marl grey loose jogger and a vintage t-shirt and I’m happy. I also prefer a zipped hoodie to an over-the-head hoodie.
