Closet Raid
special feature
Story by Ashley Elvington • Collin M. Smith Photography
Cookie Ryan’s
timeless style
My second favorite designer of all time is, without a doubt, Coco Chanel.
When Melia told me that I would be interviewing Cookie Ryan, proud owner
of several beautiful Chanel items, I was ecstatic. In fact, I was simply excited
to be in the same room as those items during her photo shoot. I have always
dreamed of having the classic black quilted purse in my collection! Cookie is
truly one fashionable lady who appreciates the value of a good piece of clothing, especially when it’s as timeless as Chanel. “I tend to wear the classic looks
so that I can wear my same styles every year.”
Originally from Chicago, Cookie’s obsession with fashion began at an early
age. “My mother was a fashionista and always made sure that I had matching shoes for every outfit I wore. On Saturdays, she would take me shopping
to Saks Fifth Avenue in Chicago. What fun!” Now that she’s older, she enjoys
buying clothes for parties and weddings. “When I buy a fabulous outfit for a
special occasion, I feel special. I enjoy dressing for the occasion as if the party
was especially for me!” In addition to Chanel, Cookie loves designs by Tory
Burch, Elie Tahari and Diane Von Fürstenburg. “I love these designers because
their designs are classic, and they do not go out of style from one year to the
next. I am wearing the same clothes from eight years ago, and they still look
fabulous!” Luckily for Cookie, she’s able to shop for Von Fürstenburg’s items
right at home in Florence, thanks to Heyward & Hanna, her favorite boutique.
“I have been shopping there since Anne Hanna opened her doors eight years
ago. She is truly the ultimate fashionista. She has the most remarkable taste
in clothes, shoes and jewelry. I never have to shop out of town to always look
my best and be so proud of my appearance. I appreciate Anne for helping me
always look my best wherever I go.”
In addition to clothes, Cookie is obsessed with shoes as well, especially
Cookie Ryan and her husband
of 44 years, Dick, have three
children: Tiffany, Rick and
Gately. They are the proud
grandparents of six.
those designed by Tory Burch. “Her work is classic, from her flats to sandals
and heels. I can wear them every day and to a dressy party.” Her favorite pair in
her closet are Burch’s black patent leather flats, once again purchased at Heyward & Hanna. “I wear them every month of the year! They are great shoes,
very comfortable and can go everywhere.” Thanks to her mother, Cookie continues the tradition of buying matching shoes for each outfit she purchases.
This fall, Cookie will more than likely be purchasing Burch’s new classic flats
and low wedge heels. “They both complete every look for fall, from dresses to
pants and leggings.” These will probably be worn with her favorite fall fashion
“I love these designers because their
designs are classic, and they do not go
out of style from one year to the next.”
trend, long tops with leggings.
While I’m still dreaming for that lucky lottery ticket that will enable me to
buy all of the Chanel bags that I desire, I hope to one day have the style
possessed by both Cookie and Coco herself - classy, unique and timeless.
56
September 2014
shemagazine.com