StyleNest chat to radio and TV presenters as well as one of the UK’s most successful models and jewellery designer, Lisa Snowdon. Lisa talks bling, boxsets and baths whilst sharing her new jewellery collection for QVC.
From modelling to TV & radio and now jewellery, how do you balance it all?
I feel so lucky as I love what I do, and I think because I love it all I manage to make it work.
I am also really good at prioritising and I write lots of lists. My life has a lovely balance to it now, which makes me very happy.
How did you journey from modelling into TV & Radio?
I was always so opinionated on photoshoots when I was younger and I always wanted to be more involved than just standing there having my picture taken. So, whether it was helping to find locations, or getting involved with light meter readings and the styling I knew I needed to do more.
I was also quite used to being in TV commercials as I had featured in quite a few. I felt very comfortable being in front of the moving camera, so when MTV asked to see me I was beyond excited. I got the job and started to present on MTV Select daily. It was a live 2-hour show and I had to interview guests and speak to the viewers. From there I went to LA to present LA Pool party for the BBC and then Top of The Pops – and the rest is history as they say.
You look absolutely fabulous, what are your top 5 hero beauty products?
Thank you, I am an absolute beauty junkie and have recently launched my beauty and wellness blog YOU Glow Girl, so I am always on the hunt for gorgeous products and treatments that really work. My new favourite treatment is cosmetic acupuncture with a lady called Sarah Bradden – Sarah is a total gem, and yes it does involve needles, but it honestly really doesn’t hurt. If anything it’s so calming. It treats the whole body, not just the muscles in the face, although I am 5 treatments in and I’m really noticing that my face is changing shape – it’s really helping to tone and sculpt. It’s also been amazing at balancing my hormones and giving my overall health a good boost.
My top 5 would be….
A good cleanser is key, and must be used twice a day. Right now, I am using Aurelia Miracle Cleanser, it’s a probiotic skincare packed full of goodness, omegas and chamomile, eucalyptus and rosemary so it smells divine and is amazing to lift off any make up. Their whole range is actually rather wonderful.
Perricone MD, Eye Plasma is really effective and helps with the tone and texture around the eyes, and is also gentle enough to use on the eyelids. Moisturiser is a must, as my skin is more on the dry side, so moisture is my friend. I love The Ordinary Hyaluronic acid which helps to boost hydration levels and is also really affordable and then I add Aurelia Cell revitalize with a touch of Espa fake tan.
Perfume is also a must and I always have some in my handbag as I love the power of scent and how it can really lift and enhance my mood – I love Rose Noir and Velvet Haze both by Byredo, gorgeous for both day and night. I have been wearing Rose Noir since I was given it by a friend for my 40th Birthday
What’s your health & fitness regime?
I find that exercise is so crucial for my mind, as well as my body. Of course it keeps me fit – we all want to feel good in our clothes or more importantly out of them – but working out really improves my mood, helps to lift my spirits, enables me to process stuff and deal with stress. When I can’t work out I really notice that I have the tendency to be a little moody and sometimes quite down. I do Pilates on the reformer machine which is fun as it’s a class and it’s great for lengthening, strengthening and toning, I do HIIT to burn more calories and get a proper sweat on, and yoga to really stretch, breathe and calm me. They all serve different purposes and I really notice a big difference in my mind and my body when I combine them all.
Can you tell our readers a little bit about your arrival onto the jewellery scene?
I have always had a love of fashion and accessories ever since I was really young, my Grandma’s jewellery box was always the highlight when I used to go and stay with them. I would tip everything out onto her bed and then wear as much as I physically could. In all the photographs of me when I was younger, I am accessorised to the max! Necklaces and handbags and bracelets..you name it, I am wearing it! I have always been a magpie and a collector of jewellery. I was modelling with a jewellery brand and they took me in to meet QVC. It is a total dream to be designing my own collections, and I love seeing people wear my pieces – I’m really excited to get started on my next collection with QVC.
We love the new collection, where do you get your inspiration from?
Travel is always a big inspiration, as is nature and there are always elements of nature and the universe within my collections. I can find inspiration from the smallest thing, from my travels, through to my daily life, it really can be anything.
Do you have any favourite pieces from the latest collection?
I adore lots of the new pieces, it’s like picking a favorite child. The falling leaves necklaces in both lengths work so well with all necklines. I also love the diamond scattered pendant.
Also, my diamond smiley face and my LOL with diamond tears always make me smile, I love it!
The collection features quality diamonds and gemstones but it’s affordable – it’s great that women are able to buy their own jewellery, especially diamonds – it makes me so happy!
What are your price points?
£30 – £100
What jewellery trends will we see emerging this season?
I don’t really follow trends as such when I’m designing, it’s just whatever I feel like and love.
With summer I always like to add some colour, so turquoise is always a great pop of colour for summer and I like a gorgeous green for autumn.
When you’re not busy working, what do you do to unwind and relax?
I love cooking and eating and the odd glass of wine. Also binging on box sets and reality TV which is my guilty pleasure. Hot baths and lighting lots of candles is a good way to decompress too.
Being in the public eye, you must have to be conscious on what you wear. What are your style tips?
It is important to feel comfortable. Good underwear and support pants help to smooth out any unwanted lumps and bumps. A good pair of heels will change how you walk, stand and hold yourself, and add a little sass to your vibe.
What can we expect to see from you in the future?
Lots more to come with QVC and my exclusive jewellery collection, as well as fashion on This Morning.
I am also excited to announce that I am taking part in a charity hike in Transylvania for Coppa Feel this summer. We are walking through the Transylvanian alps, and camping each night under the stars for 5 days where we will walk 46 miles to raise as much money as we can. I was approached by Fabulous magazine who asked if I would be a team leader along with Tom Fletcher (McFly)
It’s going to very special as I am walking with my cousin Ana who has breast cancer. it is going to be an incredible life changing experience.
I also have lots of exciting TV projects that I am discussing with production companies.
You’re such an inspirational business woman, what advice would you give to our readers who want to set up their own business?
Thank you. I would say if you have a dream to go for it! Life is short and of course starting or trying anything new can be absolutely terrifying but unless you try you will never know. We are also so scared to fail, as failure can seem so daunting and the worst thing in the world, but I would truly say not pursuing your dreams is much worse.
Do you have any favourite London spots to eat/shop/drink?
London is the best city to shop in! Liberty is one of my favourite stores, it has everything you need and the building itself is so beautiful. Selfridges’ beauty hall is fantastic and stocks so many incredible brands.
I have recently fallen in love with the mushroom truffle pizza at Blake’s Hotel. The base is made from hemp seed, cauliflower and hazelnuts nuts and it truly is delicious. I also love Bistroteqe in East London, with its delicious food and cocktails, and Pollen Street Social will always have a place in my heart as its where my fiancé and I went when we were reunited after many years. The Quality Chop House does the best confit potatoes with a scoop of caviar on the top!
You always look so chic and stylish. We can’t imagine you ever having a scruffy day. What is your ultimate wardrobe staple?
Good jeans! They should be flattering and comfortable and be able to go from daytime to evening just by adding a heel. I recently found the most incredible pair in Japan that I have been living in as I love a scruffy dressed down day!
Donna Ida is the jean queen here in London, and has the most wonderful selection, so I also always stock up there. I love a Stan Smith trainer or a Converse and I have a trusted navy cashmere jumper that is my favourite go to look when I am out and about or for meeting my girlfriends for lunch. Also, good underwear that fits properly is a must, especially bras..girls make sure you get fitted!
How would you describe your style?
I love to dip into different styles depending on my mood or the season. Some days it’s boyfriend jeans, t-shirts and a khaki jacket. I also love tailoring, you can’t go wrong with a classic black jacket that fits like a glove. I also love silk PJ suits, with bold prints and colour as well as uber feminine maxi dresses with chunky knitwear and boots. I guess you could say I am totally eclectic and really enjoy and have fun with fashion.
Any top tips for our readers on how to look fabulous in just five minutes?
Dry shampoo saves so much time and I think Living Proof is fantastic. Curl your lashes, stick on a quick coat or two of your favourite mascara, get your best jeans on and add lots of jewellery and some perfume and out you go!
What’s your motto?
Live
Lisa Snowdon’s jewellery collection features stylish, elegant designs using quality diamonds and gemstones, and is available exclusively at qvcuk.com