Fashion and celebrity stylist Nana Acheampong (@styledbynana) on the joys of self-gifting and creating a colour-confident wardrobe for special summer occasions 

Nana, what’s the most stylish gift you’ve ever received?

That would be a really incredible Saint Laurent handbag from an ex-boyfriend. I use it all the time because I truly believe that all designer items are there to be worn, used and loved – and not just there for show.

And the best gift you’ve given someone else?

I’m a really good gift giver – even if I say so myself [laughs]. The best gift I’ve given is a holiday to Zanzibar, to my ex-boyfriend. I give a lot of experience gifts, like a spa day or weekend away, because I think it’s special to make memories.

Do you get excited at payday and treat yourself, or do you save over time for something special?

To be honest, I do both. I never deprive myself of anything, so if it is payday then that’s an exciting time because I know I’ve got money to spend [laughs]. And then there are times when I’ve spotted something and I purposefully save up for it.

Are you a fan of self-gifting?

Of course! We all deserve little treats, and I genuinely think the best presents are to me, from me, because I know I’m going to like it!

When it comes to wedding guest dressing, what are your tips for standing out for all the right reasons?

The best way to stand out as a wedding guest is to be yourself. You don’t have to try a seasonal trend if you don’t think it will suit you; you don’t want to feel uncomfortable for the whole day.

Is there a current trend you’re seeing this season and are into?

When it comes to event dressing the trends typically stay the same – florals, pastel colours, jewel-tone colours… The style itself will be different, though, and that’s where it gets exciting to try it if you’re feeling daring.

What should you not wear to a wedding?

Apart from the obvious white? I’ve heard you shouldn’t wear black or red, but I’ve definitely worn red to a wedding because I love colour. And don’t wear a really obnoxious hat, unless you’re the mother of the bride [laughs].

If someone wants to start building a colour-confident wardrobe, where do they start?

The easiest way to start injecting some colour into your wardrobe is with accessories – this way, you’re not doing it all at once. You still have the neutral tones that are already in your wardrobe, but you could add a colour-pop shoe, a bag or a jacket. Another way is to pick your favourite colour and create a monochromatic look, so one colour head to toe. It sounds scary but it’s actually so simple, because nothing can clash.

You can only wear one colour for the rest of your life, what is it?

I’ve never been asked this! And this is the hardest question yet. The colour I currently can’t stop wearing is cobalt blue. But, interestingly, the colours I have most in my wardrobe are orange and red. I need to stop buying red trousers, I’ve got about eight pairs on the go.

It doesn’t sound like you have a capsule wardrobe at home…

A capsule wardrobe? Who is that? I don’t know her [laughs].

Why is wearing colour important to you?

Wearing colour is so important to me, number one, because of my heritage; I am from Ghana and it’s what I’ve grown up with. Our traditional wear is full of colour, so I’ve been exposed to it from birth. Number two, for me, I truly believe that clothes have the power to change your mood. I can put on a pink leather jacket, or a red dress, or a yellow pair of heels, and instantly my mood is boosted. To me, colourful clothing is a joyful expression of my mood and how I feel.

What’s your favourite season to dress for?

It has to be summer. I love a good pair of boots and a coat in winter, but I hate layers. Everyone is happier in summer, am I wrong?

What’s your favourite thing about John Lewis?

I love how many brands have been onboarded recently, and I really want to shout about it. And I love how John Lewis is a one-stop shop – I can get a full fashion and beauty look, and something for the kitchen too!

What is your proudest achievement so far?

Becoming a homeowner four years ago. I did it on my own. My mum kept asking me to move to Essex but I said “no, I’m staying in London”. Although, on reflection, buying the house was easier than the full renovation I did…

Tell us about a career highlight you’re proud of…

I worked as Celebrity Style Editor at Fabulous magazine for about 10 years and my greatest achievement is seeing the interns and the fashion assistants who I mentored go on and fly. Seeing them have amazing jobs today makes me feel so proud.

What makes you feel confident?

My family and friends. They are my grounding force and my biggest cheerleaders.

Lastly, online fashion or physical retail?

Physical retail, hands down. As a stylist I love to touch and feel the products and try them on. You don’t get the same feeling online.