Following the opening of our new standalone store in Leeds, we wanted to curate a modern guide for the city whilst visiting, so we turned to one of our favourite content creators Kat for advice on the best places to eat, drink and shop.

How would you describe your style?

I like playing with textures and silhouettes. It’s not so much about the clothes themselves but more about how they sit on the body. I don’t have a real focus on flattering or figure hugging clothes. I enjoy an oversized silhouette and I love layering. I’m really inspired by Japanese style with a mix of Scandinavian as well. I often buy stuff in a larger size, because I think it makes things look a little bit more expensive. Finally, I really look for quality fabrics that are going to wash well and hang well.

What do you enjoy most about documenting your style?

I really like buying things that can be worn multiple ways and showing how I can wear things differently by posting the looks on Instagram. I don’t wear something new in every single picture and you will continue to see the pieces that I have in my feed. When I’m gifted I make sure I only pick things I would actually buy myself that I can wear that fit into my wardrobe. I’m really conscious with what I buy as well to make sure that things interchange and I can style them in different ways. I think people appreciate that because in this current climate, if people are investing in a piece, they want to be able to wear it to various occasions and make sure it goes with things in their existing wardrobe.

How long have you lived near Leeds? What do you love most about it?

I work in Leeds and I just love the creativity of the city and the bustle. There’s so many creative, artistic and inspirational people around and it provides so many opportunities. Typically, London is like the place to be for everything but we’re seeing Leeds and Manchester become their own Northern hubs of enterprise and creativity.

Favourite food spots…

I love Bundobust which is an Indian Street Food restaurant. It’s really chilled and you go in and sit on benches and the food is so good. I love Mowglis too. I spend a lot of time eating pizza out – Headrow House is also a favourite.

And for drinks?

I really like The Green Room.They do DJ nights and music and it’s a blend of indoor and outdoor so it’s perfect for this time of year. There’s a great atmosphere throughout the summer. Headrow House again too has a lovely roof terrace bar, as does East Parade. There’s also Fearns Leeds Dock which opened recently and it’s a bar in the evening but also a great brunch and coffee spot.

Speaking of… where are your favourite coffee shops?

Mrs Athas is great and so is Archive. I prefer indie coffee shops and by Leeds Dock there’s lots of options, there’s always restaurants and cafes popping up.

Where do you go shopping?

I go to a lot of high street stores when I come into Leeds but there’s also The Corn Exchange which is great. They’ve got some really cool shops. Obviously I love magazines so Colours May Vary is a great stop for magazines, books, prints, posters and cards. You can get lovely gifts or unique magazines you can’t get elsewhere. House of Fu and The Plant Point are other favourites too.

Talk to us about your summer wardrobe, what are you styling a lot of right now?

I enjoy summer because it lets me play with colour more. I’m enjoying adding pops to my otherwise neutral wardrobe. I’ve also been adding colourful sunglasses and wearing more striped shirts and trousers.

And what do you enjoy most about summer styling?

It’s the best time to experiment. I love layering in winter but you often find yourself hiding your looks under a big coat, whereas in summer, you can express your personal style more. It’s the perfect time to add colour and pattern to your wardrobe.

Staples you always take on holiday?

A good overshirt, always oversized. It’s a bit of a running joke with my friends because I love them so much but you can wear them as beach cover ups but also for more elevated looks in the evening. Also, I’m loving the Sunshine Stripe Shirt set from Whistles – it’s such a flattering fit and warm shade of yellow.

Where do you love to spend the weekend when you’re not in Leeds?

I really like Salts Mill in Saltaire which is an old mill. It’s three floors of retail and art spaces and has lots of great coffee shops. It’s the perfect spot for a Sunday afternoon and Saltaire itself is really cool. I also love the Hepworth Gallery and The Piece Hall in Halifax, which is a music venue but also has shops. I love Yorkshire Sculpture Park too.

Favourite travel destinations? Or destinations on your list?

Lisbon is on my list. I also went to Antwerp in January and would really recommend it. One of my followers used to live there so she gave me a really unique and extensive list of places. They weren’t immediately obvious places. It was a really creative place with a lot of chic style inspiration.

Any favourite Whistles items right now?

The Kai handbag. I’m wearing it all the time and I love a crossbody bag as I’m on the go a lot. I also love the Melissa Stripe jumpsuit in red and white. I tried it on with the Kira Crew tank in store, so I’ll definitely be layering those when it gets colder. I also love the Leopard Spot Jumpsuit.

We are so excited to announce that we’ve opened a new standalone store in Leeds.

Showcasing a curated edit of must-have pieces for Summer 23 and a selection of modern occasionwear, there’s no better time to visit and get to know us.

Unit N9, Victoria Gate
East Gate, Leeds