The fashion era Deborah Hutton is welcoming back into her wardrobe

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, Georgie Gordon chats to television presenter Deborah Hutton.

How would you describe your style?
Casually elegant, with a big nod to relaxed comfort.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
A beautiful Indian scarf given to me by a friend in the early ’80s.

And the most recent addition?
A duck-egg blue Saba coat.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon?
I’m not drawn to women for what they wear; more attractive qualities to me are confidence, maturity and self-worth, women who are comfortable in their own skin. Carla Zampatti, for example, always held herself beautifully.

What’s your favourite fashion era?
The ’80s. I loved it. You couldn’t have big enough hair, or shoulder pads, or wear enough gold – it was hysterical. I had it all, I thought it was so cool, then the ’90s came along and it looked so daggy. But some of it is returning: the pleated pant, the oversized jacket …

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What would you wear …
… on a first date? I’d be me: jeans, tee, tailored jacket, a low heel. Putting a little heel on is dressy for me these days!
… on a plane? I don’t get dressed up to travel like I used to, I just want comfort – floppy pants, T-shirt, long cardigan, sneakers. In the bag I’ve got everything: pyjamas, earplugs, eye mask, extra clothes and always a big cashmere scarf to snuggle up in.
… on the red carpet? Black. I’ve got a couple of go-to Carla Zampattis.

Who’s your favourite designer?
I love what Zimmermann does – it’s beautiful, sophisticated and relaxed.