Rebecca Hessel Cohen, is the master of vintage-inspired floral dresses, which form the very heart of her womenswear label, LoveShackFancy.
LoveShackFancy came into fruition when former Fashion Editor Rebecca Hessel Cohen was getting married. “The inspiration for my wedding was South of France, meets The Great Gatsby, meets Great Expectations. I couldn’t find any bridesmaids dresses that fit this brief so I thought why not make them!” What followed was the creation of beautiful, ethereal fantasy dresses, which Rebecca realised filled a gap in the market for beach-to-party attire.
10 years on, LoveShackFancy has evolved from a dress label to an all-encompassing lifestyle brand. It now spans kidswear, activewear, and homeware, all bedecked with the Victorian florals and ruffles, which have become the LSF signature.
Equipped with armfuls of her easy floral dresses, we delve into Rebecca Hessel Cohen’s travel psyche…
What’s your most memorable trip and why?
The first time I went to Provence, aged 17, with my parents. The memories from that trip are so vivid: driving along the coast in the backseat of the car, listening to Moby on my CD player – it was a bohemian dream. Later, when my husband, Todd and I started going together, my romance with the French Riviera flourished further.
What is your favourite ever hotel?
A favourite hotel of mine is La Colombe d’Or. Having lunch in their beautiful little garden is pure magic. Another favourite classic is Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, it’s such an amazing summer spot. It epitomises decadent old-school chic. The whole place oozes with the history and the characters that have frequented the hotel for the last 150 years.
Where or what is your escape?
I love a staycation in the Hamptons. It’s the most perfect place to reset and feel creative, plus the light is magic, especially at golden hour. We love dinner at Pierre’s: it’s like travelling to Paris for the night. Highlights also include picnics on the beach, long walks on Ocean Road, and sundowners at The Shed.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…
Paris – it has my heart.
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
The ultimate luxury holiday is being with my family in the South of France during the summer.
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Where do you you go for inspiration?
New York City during the holiday time is so special, and seeing all the shop windows always inspires me.
How do you switch off?
Spending time with my girls and my family is the best way to switch off and relax.
What’s on your travel playlist?
Anything by Bebel Gilberto. I first heard her music when we visited Trancoso, Brazil and fell deeply in love with her voice.
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What is your jet-lag recovery tip?
Do not nap when you get off the plane and keep going!
Who is your favourite travel companion?
My husband, Todd and two daughters, Scarlett and Stella.
What is your suitcase stalwart?
I’m never not wearing a bikini, even on the plane! I live in our Victorian-style dresses: a closet essential in timeless prairie lace that captures the spirit of our brand. The Arden dress and the Flora dress are my favourites. I take them in every colour.
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What is your number one packing tip?
More is more! I love packing plenty of options.
What is your most-treasured purchase from your travels?
Anything vintage. I am constantly sourcing new vintage pieces for all of our stores every time we travel.
Where is home and what are your must-do’s for any tourists visiting?
New York City is my forever home and a trip to Bergdorf Goodman is a must.
First thing that comes to your mind…
Hand luggage essential…
Our LoveShackFancy large totes.
Beach or city break?
Beach.
Packing: roll or fold?
Roll.
Music or podcast?
Music.
In-flight book or in-flight film?
Film.
Time filler on a long-haul flight?
Movies and red wine.
Holiday tipple of choice?
Red wine.
Any Questions or Tips to add?