What I Know About Style

Sheena Abbot-Davies

Dote

February
1

Sheena Abbot-Davies, founder of new online sleepwear range Dote, on her love of cashmere and Morgan Freeman

What inspired the concept for Dote?

I was very frustrated looking for lovely sleep wear and finally decided I would be able to do better myself. My memories of my very glamorous aunt June in her silk nighties was a starting point.

What’s your top tip for the perfect night’s sleep?

A delicious hot bath with Neal’s Yard Geranium & Orange Bath Oil is my favourite as it reminds me of bathing my children when they were little. And falling asleep next to someone you love always helps…

What are you most proud of and why?

Besides my three wonderful boys, I am very proud that I have managed to start a business that was totally out of my league. Let’s hope it ends up more than just a start!

What was the worst pair of pyjamas you ever owned?

I think I’ve had loads of horrid ones – mostly because I could never afford the gorgeous ones and the inexpensive ones are just too depressing for words.

What is your favourite season and why?

It would have to be summer for the long days and the fact that everyone is so manically trying to squeeze all the fun possible into it. Also, we are lucky enough to have quite a big garden for London and in summer we are constantly in it, trying to pretend that it’s in the countryside and that it is warm enough for BBQs even when it’s miserable.

Who is your style icon and why?

I have a few: Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Talitha Getty and Thandie Newton. I love timeless grace and feminine style, but never too girly.

What is your favourite piece from the current collection?

The Garbo nightslip which you can wear in the day with a leather jacket or at night with a gillet. I think it is very stylish and it feels heavenly next to your skin.

Do you have a top tip for picking the right knit?

Always go for quality. I prefer neutral colours and can never have enough cashmere.

What’s your favourite film for a duvet day/evening?

Shawshank Redemption. I love Morgan Freeman.

What’s your philosophy on life?

Just do the best you can and try to make everything around you a little bit more beautiful. You don’t have to have loads of money to create beautiful surroundings; from decor to what we wear, it really does lift our mood.

Any guilty pleasures?

Red wine… And cashmere.

www.dotelondon.com

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