In the game of who’s coming to dinner, Iris Apfel always tops my list. And after listening to her speak in Toronto last night, I know she’d be a dream at any dinner party. Talk loudly and slowly –– she is hard of hearing –– and don’t bother with mindless, Kardashian chit chat. Avoid politics. Ask her where she bought her first pair of blue jeans, or which First Lady was most involved in re-decorating the White House (Pat Nixon). Don’t bother with selfie requests, just snap the pic. And if she compliments you on your outfit, smile, and tell her that you take inspiration from the fearlessness of fashion greats. She won’t stay for long –– she is 95, you know –– but half an hour is all you need. What a fabulous, sharp-witted, daring broad.

I can’t recall the last time I wore sheer black tights, maybe 1993, under a satin puff ball skirt at Dominique Westaway’s disco party.  Polka dots, like the ones on Clémence Poésy are a lovely choice, and lace is pretty, too. Lace legs make me think of my Mum, whose skinny pins always look so great in lacy tights and black suede pumps. Go on, let’s give sheers a go.

I’m a sucker for colourful stripes, and these ones from Mara Hoffman are too fun to miss out on. These two girls look like a pair of deck chairs –– and that’s a compliment. Take a look the whole collection. It’s colourful, playful and effortless. And that’s a trifecta complete in my wardrobe.

There are people out there who dress up like it’s Halloween every day of the year. They wear extreme eye makeup to the dentist, neon wigs to the grocery store, and outlandish hats to pick up the kids from school. Here’s to all you fearless originals out there. I salute you.