Irish stylist Dani Behan talks sartorial finesse and shopping sustainably

How would you describe your own personal style?

I gravitate toward tailored pieces that emphasise structure and fit, showcasing a refined aesthetic. I love classic silhouettes and sharp cuts and enjoy mixing modern trends with timeless elements. I also love a good cardigan or funky knitted jumper for winter. I can’t leave out that I have an ever growing hat collection and you’ll rarely see me without a hat on.

What is your approach to clothes shopping?

My approach to clothes shopping combines a love for vintage and charity shops with a focus on investing in higher-quality pieces that will stand the test of time. I enjoy looking for unique finds in vintage stores, which often adds character and individuality to my wardrobe. At the same time, I believe in the value of purchasing higher price point items that offer durability and longevity because of their quality.

What are your thoughts on ‘haul culture’?

I don’t partake in haul culture as I’m concerned about its impact on the environment, particularly due to the fast fashion industry.

Tell us about five capsule items in your wardrobe?

My capsule items would include a vintage brown biker jacket that I sourced in Japan last year, my Maison Margiela Tabi boots, my double-breasted tailored overcoat, whatever hat I’m feeling on the day, and a vintage pair of Levi jeans.

What is your most hard-working piece of clothing?

I’d say it’s my vintage black blazer, as it’s a piece that I can dress up or down whatever the occasion.

The hand-me-down you treasure?

I inherited an amazing long leather jacket from my Mam from the ‘90s, I love it and it’s timeless.

The most quintessentially ‘you’ piece?

A hat of some sort.

The go-to shoe/trainers?

At the moment I mainly wear a loafer. I’m a stylist and I’m standing on my feet all day, and when you have a comfortable shoe on, that you can wear with anything, it makes a difference.

The does-it-all coat?

A long tailored overcoat. This type of coat can make any outfit look dressed up, whether it’s a Sunday cosy outfit or a Friday night dinner.

The perfect jeans?

I have recently procured a pair of Nudie Jeans called ‘Clean Eileen Vintage Dreams’ and they’re great. I’m 5’2” and I love that at Nudie you can get your jeans altered the same day you purchase them.

The must-have knitwear?

An unusual cardigan.

The everyday jewellery?

Everyday jewellery for me consists of a simple gold hoop earring, two layered gold necklaces and four gold rings. I’ve accumulated all my gold jewellery over the years and each piece has some special significance for me.

The wear-everywhere handbag?

I got the Prada re-edition 2005 re-nylon handbag a few years ago and it’s a great everyday bag. It fits everything for such a compact bag.

The Sunday cosy casual look?

I’m not really a tracksuit girl so generally my Sunday casual look would consist of a cosy cardigan, a comfortable pair of jeans, and a loafer.

The ultimate pyjamas?

I love a long-sleeved button-up pyjama. Uniqlo and the brand TOAST have a great range of pyjamas for autumn/winter.

The party look essential?

My party look is generally an oversized suit.

The most treasured piece?

My most treasured piece would probably be the leather coat my Mam passed down to me, or, maybe my Tabi boots. I wanted them for so long that when I got them I treated them like they were a newborn baby.

The wishlist item?

My wishlist item at the moment would probably be The Row’s Margaux Bag.

The vintage shop(s) to know?

Aro Archive and Files in East London and Rellik in West London.

Who to follow online for style inspiration?

One of my favourite accounts to follow at the moment is artist and architect @garancevallee — I absolutely love her style and her work is amazing!