The best of Charlotte Hicks
The designer behind ESSE Studios on building the perfect wardrobe foundations
In this series I ask my favourite people in fashion to tell me about their favourite wardrobe staples.
This week we’re diving into the wardrobe of Charlotte Hicks, the founder and creative director of ESSE Studios. Hicks lives on one of the steep hills in Tamarama that looks straight out at the Pacific Ocean. A fitting backdrop for a designer whose work is both architectural and imbued with relaxed silhouettes that suit a life beside the water.
She prefaces her answers with an asterisk: I don’t mean for them to be mostly ESSE Studios pieces, but when I started the brand it was so much about me endlessly hunting for wardrobe foundations. I could never find what I was looking for so I tried to design it.
I’ve included links to a version of each recommendation where I could. ESSE studios also has a beautiful atelier in Paddington where you can make an appointment to see and try on the collection in person.
1) Tell me about the best white t-shirt you've ever owned?
ESSE Studios Classico Tee. It’s made from Australia’s ‘Good Earth' Cotton right here in Sydney. It’s not just the shape and the fabric, I love it because it’s a natural ecru colour, slightly warm, creamy off white. Which makes wearing it with just about any tone so easy. The cotton is heavier, robust and it holds its oversized shape. I love a tee with a bit of structure.
2) Tell me about the best jeans you've ever owned?
ESSE Studios Cocoon Jean. They're a black denim, I wear them almost every day. They’re are a bit of a spin on a jean, not a classic 5 pocket, but I love the subtle sculptural barrel shape and relaxed feel. They have an artful proportion whilst still being super easy for day-to-day. I love when a piece subverts a traditional use of fabric.
3) Tell me about the best pair of black trousers you ever owned?
Hardest question to answer, I have an ESSE black trouser for almost every day of the week and it’s like playing favourites with your children. On high rotation at the moment is a slim shape from many editions ago. I love going back to older pieces, it’s like being reunited with an old friend. They’re a super classic, tailored slim pant in a tropical wool, with a menswear-inspired straight waistband which sinks on the hips and then tapers straight down.
4) Tell me about the best blazer you ever owned?
A few years ago, I did this blazer that to be honest, wasn’t any sort of best seller. It completely flew under the radar so I feel like it’s one of ESSE’s best kept secrets HA! But it’s hands down one of my favourite wardrobe pieces. It’s in a really unique fabric, a delustre satin finish with these small micro ’tuffs’ on the fabric to give it a bit of a rough texture. The juxtaposition of the satin with the texture just makes it so cool. The detail is so subtle like it is just for you and no one else. It’s a double breasted, oversized, rather boxy silhouette but literally goes with me everywhere I go. You can dress it down or up. It ’s like amour and every time I put it on I feel like it gives me a little hint of power. That kind of quiet confidence that only I know about and that’s all that matters ;)
5) Tell me about the best coat you ever owned?
For something different, my favourite coat of all time is from my mother. There is no brand, the label has fallen off but the wool melton has stood the test of time. It must be like a late 80s, early 90s piece but the shape is just on point and the colour is faded black. It might even be mens! My mum was so good at taking care of her pieces.