We talk to luxury stylist Ray Bundu about investment purchases and the best piece of advice she's ever received

As a luxury stylist, you work in the upper echelons of fashion, what was your first job in the industry and was it always so glamorous?

Absolutely not, my first job relating to fashion was for JD sports (no shade) while studying. 

After I graduated in Art & Design I really wasn't sure what to do next. That was when my dad suggested - if I was going work in retail while I’m “figuring it out” I should aim to get some luxury brand experience on my CV, as this would open doors for me. 

So I went off and got myself a job in the most elite department, of the most elite department store in the world - Harrods, Private Shopping. Clearly I understood the assignment - it was the best piece of advice I’ve ever received. 

You recently styled a bride for a high profile wedding, which featured in British Vogue. Did you feel more pressure than normal? Tell us about the process.

When you’re as invested in your work and the people you work with as I tend to be, everything naturally starts to feel high pressure.

As stylists, we’re invited into some of the most meaningful and memorable moments in people’s lives. When you genuinely care about your client feeling happy and confident, and you approach each day aiming to deliver a world-class service, that pressure just comes with the territory.

I absolutely loved this project. The couple are stunning, inside and out. It’s projects like these that remind you why you do the job.

Don’t get me wrong, these moments probably make up the 5% you see that make the role look glamorous. I couldn’t even count how many birthdays I’ve missed, the sleepless nights, 80 hour weeks, or the years without annual leave.

Describe your personal style.

If Carrie Bradshaw and Michael Jordan shared a wardrobe. 

Working in luxury do you ever wrangle with yourself about the price point, or do you believe all luxury brands are worth paying for?

Fortunately, one of the perks of working in the industry is the discount and gifting. Without that, my collection wouldn’t be anywhere near as impressive. I’m a romantic shopper, if I fall for the vision or a brand’s story - you can take all my hard-earned cash. That said, I’m being much more intentional nowadays. I’ve set a rule: if I can’t wear it for work, I won’t buy it. You’d be surprised at how many frivolous purchases this rule curbs! 

Also, just as a side note, even those of us working within the luxury industry know the pricing landscape is absolutely outrageous right now. #depoptotherescue 

Is there such a thing as an investment piece?

Absolutely, I’m a big advocate for the cost-per-wear mentality. I once bought this gorgeous Balenciaga Hourglass Blazer — it’s such incredible quality. The silhouette and fabric are as pristine as the day I bought it; it’s basically indestructible. It’s the kind of piece that would have me turning heads at 90 and making haters out of the other grannies at church... 

If I were ever welcomed in a house of God.

Most worn item in your wardrobe?

Omg, these oversized brown suit pants from a Black-owned brand based in Canada called Re Ona. I’m like bloody Mickey Mouse! If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen those damn pants! 

Do you have a fashion mission, or are you just here to enjoy the ride?

Diversity and equity in my industry are deeply important to me. Growing up, I didn’t even know that what I do now was a career option—let alone believe I (as a mixed,  scouser) could ever be part of it. I genuinely adore what I do, and I want others to have the chance to access these incredible opportunities. I'm committed to helping shift the landscape, and I’ll keep finding ways to contribute—no matter how big or small. Not all of us have forgotten our posting of the black square. 

Scouser, stylist, strategist, and creative. Rachael has worked with some of the world’s leading luxury brands, including Miu Miu, Harrods, NET-A-PORTER and Moda Operandi. 

Formerly Head of Fashion, where she led on VIP strategy and content, Rachael has since shifted her focus to private styling and curating elevated experiences and events for VIP clients.

@raybun_ on Instagram