When Lady Starmer made her entrance at Downing Street this summer in a £275 dress from the British retailer Me+Em, she quickly captured the fashion spotlight. Social media buzzed with admiration, with comments like, “I love her style” echoing across platforms. Her choices seemed to resonate well with the public—striking the perfect balance of affordability, fit, color, and British flair. But the question arose: who was behind her fashionable looks?
In the weeks that followed, speculation grew regarding whether Lady Starmer was working with a wardrobe advisor, as many of her predecessors had, or if she was navigating the global fashion scene solo. Recent developments have shed light on this mystery, revealing that Lord Alli, a Labour peer, had funded clothing and alterations for her, alongside the services of an undisclosed personal shopper.
Hints suggest that this advisor might be Rebecca Clouston, a 58-year-old London-based wardrobe expert mentioned in The Times. Known for her discretion—she declined to comment when approached by The Telegraph—and her friendly yet professional demeanor in the often superficial fashion industry, Clouston’s potential involvement is bolstered by insights from industry insiders. Barbara Horspool, the former clothing director at The White Company, remarked, “Rebecca truly invests in understanding her clients’ needs.” She recalls seeing Clouston in action delivering styling talks at Selfridges, where she showcased her expertise in a chic setting recently frequented by high-profile celebrities.
As speculation continues, the fashion world watches closely to see how Lady Starmer’s evolving style reflects not only her personal taste but also the influence of those advising her.
The blend of glamour and practicality in her styling approach resonates well with a diverse clientele, which includes notable public figures and business executives who praise her on LinkedIn. “She knows just how far to push people beyond their comfort zones,” says Barbara Horspool, highlighting Clouston’s relatable nature. “She’s very down-to-earth—not just a typical fashion stylist—she truly listens to her clients’ needs with empathy.”
Rebecca Clouston launched her career in 1987 as a buyer at Fenwick, a prestigious department store on Bond Street. After a decade of honing her skills, she led the buying and merchandising teams at Mulberry before starting her own personal styling business in 2003. Clouston operates out of Selfridges, where she utilizes luxurious private shopping suites. “I feel privileged to assist my clients in this beautiful and discreet environment,” she notes on her website. Her curated selections often combine high street finds with luxury brands, while also encouraging clients to explore smaller independent boutiques.
Clouston’s primary aim is to ease the stress and anxiety surrounding wardrobe choices. “My process begins with an in-depth private consultation that can last up to three hours,” she explains. “This ideally occurs in your home, allowing access to your wardrobe, which is crucial for understanding your lifestyle and image aspirations. Together, we work towards achieving effortless style and enhanced confidence.”
For someone like Lady Starmer, seeking guidance from Clouston could be particularly beneficial, as she possesses an instinct for selecting fabrics and styles that translate beautifully on camera, enhancing her public image.
“Rebecca has a keen eye for identifying flattering dresses,” Horspool remarks. “Let’s be honest, Lady Starmer is tall and slim, and she carries herself with great confidence, so any stylist will only enhance her appearance or streamline her clothing selection process.” According to Horspool, Clouston's role likely includes sourcing contemporary pieces that align with the evolving mood within the government. “Fashion can be quite playful and enjoyable,” she explains, “but Rebecca excels at knowing just how far to push those boundaries.”
In conclusion, Rebecca Clouston's expertise in styling not only highlights Lady Starmer's natural elegance but also aligns her wardrobe with the shifting dynamics of government. By skillfully balancing contemporary trends with a personal touch, Clouston enhances Lady Starmer's public image while simplifying her fashion choices. As they navigate this evolving landscape together, Clouston's ability to know when to be bold and when to exercise restraint ensures that Lady Starmer remains both fashionable and confident in her role.