The Loves of My Life: Sydney Lima and Julia Campbell-Gillies

      The most impactful interviews are typically the most intimate. In "Loves of My Life," we learn about the individual behind their work, probing into the vital questions we are eager to uncover, such as their favorite dining spots and date-night locations, what they save on Instagram, the piece of jewelry that holds the most significance to them, and what’s tucked away at the bottom of their handbag. In essence, we discover the small joys in their lives. Best friends Sydney Lima and Julia Campbell-Gillies are well recognized in the Who What Wear UK office for crafting diverse creative careers that go well beyond fashion. From Lima's insightful writings on digital culture, identity, and women's experiences to Campbell-Gillies' interdisciplinary work in floristry, poetry, and sustainable design, these London-based creatives are reshaping the definition of modern muses. Together, they share their little loves, including favorite date spots, comfort foods, wardrobe essentials, and makeup must-haves.

      What’s your top restaurant in the entire world, and what do you order?

      Sydney Lima: Right now, I’m in a phase of visiting Indian restaurants solo, so I can’t think beyond that at the moment. I have my heart set on chicken saag, garlic naan, and paneer from the nearest, less crowded spot.

      Julia Campbell-Gillies: Somine on Kingsland Road in Dalston, East London. Their mixed grill is consistently perfect, and I go there weekly.

      Is there something in your home that carries sentimental value?

      SL: A housewarming mug from my mum, which my boyfriend broke the handle off last week. My feelings for the mug grew stronger once it was broken.

      JCG: My unattractive Romanian rug; it's the first decorative item I ever purchased! Floral, naturally.

      What would we typically find at the bottom of your handbag?

      SL: Tampons, 2p coins, and a lip balm without a lid.

      JCG: Floral debris, 17 lipsticks, and secateurs that get confiscated when I enter museums.

      Who fills your emotional cup?

      SL: I enjoy FaceTiming Julia at odd hours, pestering her with questions like, "Do you think I waited long enough to text back?" It's quite a nice way to recharge.

      JCG: Sydney prefers to see me when we talk. I think it helps her focus. I'm also quite happy to have her review every decision via text.

      If you could vacation in one place for the rest of your life, where would it be?

      SL: Tuscany, Italy. I would love to reside there, but I might end up getting sunburned.

      JCG: A remarkably secluded campsite in Puglia that I first visited on a shoot for Vogue Ukraine in 2018.

      How do you like to spend your free time?

      SL: I enjoy doomscrolling while watching reality TV and singing improvised songs for my dogs.

      JCG: I like going to gardens and indulging in full-body massages.

      Do you have a secret date-night location?

      SL: I recently moved to Saint Leonards, and my boyfriend and I often dine at our friend's restaurant, Bayte. It's fantastic. I would take Julia there, but she hasn't visited yet…

      JCG: That would have to be Café Cecilia. I do leave Hackney, but only when invited!

      Which clothing item would you never let go of, and why?

      SL: I'm currently living in a pair of blue Adidas tracksuit bottoms I've had for years, much to others' dismay. I’ve lost the drawstring and sometimes the legs pop open, but I can't stop wearing them.

      JCG: Any of my adorable sundresses.

      What’s your most-played song on Spotify?

      SL: I’m definitely not sharing.

      JCG: This spring, I've listened to Neil Young’s "On The Beach" quite a bit. I’m really into it.

      If we looked in your Instagram Saved folder right now, what would we see?

      SL: Photos of me giving my dogs emo hairstyles and images of girls with bobs.

      JCG: Beautiful poetry shared by @sujitprasad and @tomsnarksy, along with various garden pictures.

      What city inspires you the most?

      SL: London

      JCG: Without a doubt, London.

      What’s your favorite item to pack when going on holiday?

      SL: I enjoy packing underwear and socks for a trip; it’s the only time I ever feel organized. Pure CEO vibes.

      JCG: I try to pack as lightly as possible, but I always bring a bag within a bag. I love shopping while on vacation.

      What is your most treasured item in your wardrobe?

      SL: My shoe collection. I recently received a stunning pair of red Jimmy Choos from the new collection. They’re so beautiful that I'm hesitant to wear them.