Styled By: Jessica de Ruiter

I met Jessica and her husband years ago when I first opened my West Hollywood store. We hit it off instantly, and she has become one of my very best friends. A stylist and editor, she has a strong sense of self and a distinct personal style that never waivers – classic, chic, and seemingly effortless.

I asked Jessica to share some of her style secrets, and hope you enjoy. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for a look inside her gorgeous Silver Lake home. XXJKE

R+T: What are the five timeless pieces you could not live without?

1. white t-shirts

2. button down men’s shirts

3. black cropped pants

4. men’s style belt

5. black pointy pumps

R+T: What are the five pieces you are loving this season?

1. The Row loafers

2. Manolo Blahnik black stiletto ankle boots

3. Kiki de Montparnasse black lace bralette

4. Saint Laurent high-waisted black jeans

5. Gabriela Artigas for Des Kohan pearl and yellow gold jewelry

R+T: What’s at the top of your current to-buy list?

Anything from the above list!

R+T: Fill in the blanks…

Quality is more important than quantity.

Every woman needs a great haircut.

When you can’t find anything to wear, a t-shirt, jeans and cashmere sweater never fail.

Emmanuelle Alt is a classic style icon that I think always gets it right.

Shoes can make or break an outfit.

A classic handbag is a worthy investment piece.

R+T: Can you share some of your styling tips?

1. Less is more.

2. Sleep on it. So often our purchases are based on mood rather than what we really need.

3. Have a uniform. Figure out what is most flattering and what makes you feel your best, most authentic self and then set out to fill your wardrobe with variations of those types of items. This confidence in knowing one’s style signature evolves with age so it is a process that takes time and consideration but it makes getting dressed in the morning so much easier.