Laura Coxeter: Cacao De Mer
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF…..
I’m Laura, though most people know me as Launette — a nickname that’s happily stuck. I grew up in Sussex and after 15 years in London, I returned when my boys were small! I’m a mother to identical twin boys, a chocolatier, and the founder of Cacao De Mer. Alongside that, I DJ and host a regular NTS show, Launette’s Hour, and I also deal a little in vintage clothing. I’m a true Virgo, a lover of nature. I am a rather obsessive taker of photos (my degree is in Fine Art photography) I feel incredibly grateful for the communities I’m part of — online, through food, through music, and locally. And thank you, Ellen, for asking me to be part of this shoot.
WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY?
Cacao, the smell of fresh coffee in the morning, long walks in the countryside, birdsong, cuddles, and dancing to great music. A good documentary, time spent rummaging through a flea market, and, of course, old books.
WHO IS YOUR STYLE ICON AND WHY?
I’ve always admired people who can carry a slightly “wonky” outfit with ease — there’s something in that balance of elegance and pieces that are 'worn-in'.
I’m drawn to very old clothing, especially when it’s paired with something that lifts it out of feeling too “period.” I’ve been lucky to know many truly stylish people through the vintage clothing world, which has definitely shaped my eye. Growing up, I looked to my musical heroes and my style was very much informed by my home town charity shops and jumble sales.
WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO AND READING AT THE MOMENT?
I’m currently reading my friend’s debut novel, The Shock of the Light. I don’t often read novels these days — I tend to return to old art books and music biographies, and I have a real soft spot for hippy, esoteric, and new-age books and zines.
Earlier today we unearthed an old MiniDisc player of my partner’s, and the disc inside was, rather perfectly, Pentangle followed by John Fahey. I often have NTS playing in the background, and I tend to devour podcasts when I’m driving.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT SIDELINE?
I love the fabric choices, they feel both worn-in and timeless, which is something I’m always drawn to. Im particularly fond of the folk inspired, craft element to the designs. I think Sideline pieces sit so well alongside vintage, they're also very utilitarian and great for feeling 'put together' every day whilst being so comfortable.
Laura wears: Leila Trousers in oat and Willow Shirt in lilac; Heather Dress in cobalt stripe: Winnie Dress in mix patch-work.