AT HOME WITH: Ellie Pithers
You left your position as digital director at VOGUE UK magazine to become a freelancer. What led you there? to make this choice and how did it impact your daily life?
I worked for Vogue UK for almost six years, and it was a privilege. Working alongside fashion talent like Edward Enninful was a huge opportunity; I was like a sponge to their contacts and learned a lot. I was entrusted with leading the magazine's digital strategy during the pandemic, and it was an incredible and educational responsibility. I loved my job.
Shortly after, I had the opportunity to move to Paris with my fiancé, who is half-French himself, and I couldn't resist the urge for change and discovery. I miss the "voguettes." These women have always inspired me, but I still remain a contributing editor for the magazine today.
Today, I have the immense opportunity to write for many other magazines and newspapers, as well as to do consulting work for some of the luxury brands I love. The icing on the cake is that I can do the job I love in Paris, for me the most beautiful city in the world!
What rituals do you use to start your day ?
My days begin with a Pilates Booty class with Julie Pujols on video, which I reward with a butter croissant right after!
Who or what made you want to write about fashion?
Since I was a teenager, I subscribed to Vogue magazine. It may sound cliché, but reading it was a chance for me to dream and a real escape from my rather prosaic daily life. I've always seen clothing as a means of non-verbal expression, and that's what still fascinates me today.
You're particularly interested in eco - friendly fashion and , more generally , the future of this industry. What's your go-to eco -friendly gesture?
I fully embrace the idea of buying less but better. I've gotten into the habit of making a list of things I want. I keep it for two weeks before I make the purchase. It's quite funny to realize that most of the things I wrote on this list were ultimately just a momentary desire that dissipated over time. I'm also very fond of vintage and second-hand pieces. I always receive Vestiaire Collective alerts for my favorite pieces!
What advice would you give to a young woman who wants to work in journalism?
Read, read, read. For me, it's the best way to learn.
You recently moved to Paris . What typically French habits have become part of your daily life? What typically British habits have you kept ?
I'm very English in my way of being and thinking - in Paris I'm the only one who politely waits for the green light to cross the street! As for my French habits, it's mainly about French gastronomy. I'm, above all, a bread freak.
Can you share with us your best Parisian addresses?
I walk as much as possible, and day after day, I continue to discover the city. I like to go to the Sainte-Geneviève Library to work in silence. I love Le Bon Marché, where I spend way too much on stationery (I love sending cards. A very English habit).
I often dine at Chez Omar , whose comforting dishes I love. For a more romantic dinner, I like to go to Racines , on the Passage des Panoramas. Finally, I love the ice cream at Folderol on Rue du Grand Prieuré.
What would the young woman you are today say to the young girl you were ?
Acne won't ruin your life forever!
What are three items that never leave your handbag ?
A book (currently I'm reading "Acts of Service" by American novelist Lillian Fishman), my Bobbi Brown lip balm (it's the best), and some candy (the sour candy, mmmh).
Your favorite SESSEI pieces?
My favorite is the Kaia blue striped shirt, which I've been wearing for several months. I recently bought the ivory Maria shirt, which I love—super chic!
