Margaux MacNeil: stile, identità e ispirazioni senza tempo
Un’anima che intreccia cinema, tesori vintage e il fascino della dolce vita.
In ogni intervista della serie Perspectives, apro uno spazio autentico di dialogo con donne che ammiro. Donne che vivono la moda come espressione di sé, che trovano bellezza nei dettagli e che trasformano ogni scelta estetica in un gesto consapevole.
Questa volta ho chiacchierato con Margaux MacNeil, storyteller visiva e anima elegante dalla sensibilità poetica. Con uno stile che mescola heritage americano, allure francese e una passione profonda per il vintage, Margaux ci accompagna in un viaggio fatto di cinema, ispirazioni eterne e piccole grandi ossessioni di bellezza quotidiana.
Alessandra: How would you describe yourself in a few words?
Margaux: I’m a Virgo and a middle child—so probably the ultimate combination of overzealous organization and diplomacy. I am constantly scheming and plotting my next party with friends or weekend getaway with my husband. Perpetually striving for perfection and beauty, I have a knack for noticing the little things, from gestures of kindness, to a hair out of place on my head, or even something as banal as a typo. As a classic middle child, I’ve mastered the art of adaptation—reading the room, keeping the peace, and knowing when to push and when to pull back. I’m equal parts meticulous and independent, with just enough middle-child mischief to keep things interesting.
A: What’s your background, and what led you to who you are today and where you are at?
M: Born and bred in Boston, I spent my college years in the fast-paced whirlwind of New York City. My French heritage inspired me to move to Europe, and after I graduated I booked a flight to Rome and eventually surrendered to the undeniable allure of Italy. After several years of la dolce vita in the Eternal City, I found a home in Milan.
A: How would you define your personal style, and do you feel it fully represents you?
M: My personal style is a blend of heritage and passion— shaped by where I’ve been and what inspires me.
From Boston, there’s some polished prep: a slouchy cashmere polo, an oversized wool peacoat, leather knee high boots, that innate love for classic, understated elegance. The French influence lends itself to an undone sophistication—oversized silhouettes, a whisper of androgyny, subtle sex appeal that comes more from confidence than clothing. Skincare over heavy makeup, comfort without compromise.
And then, there’s cinema—my greatest muse. Old Westerns have fueled my love for fringe and wide-brim hats, while the smoldering glamour of screen sirens like Lauren Bacall are the root of my affinity for velvet capes and sharp, dramatic shoulders. My wardrobe is a mix of the timeless and the unexpected.
A: Are there specific influences, eras, or designers that have shaped your style over time?
M: Old films and iconic women have shaped my style far more than any single designer ever could. I’ve never been one to obsess over labels—if I love a piece, I wear it, regardless of where it comes from.
As for my muses, Jane Birkin reigns supreme—effortless, classic and eternally cool. Georgia O’Keeffe, not just for her art, but for her stark, poetic aesthetic. I love the ‘70s for the free-spirited bell bottoms, while the ‘80s fuel my love for unapologetic volume (give me a good blow out and shoulder pad, and I’m happy). And then, of course, there’s Italian cinema of the ‘60s—Antonioni’s world of moody, enigmatic beauty, where style is less about fashion and more about attitude.
A: I know you have a passion for vintage—how does that play into your aesthetic and the way you curate your wardrobe?
M: My passion for vintage comes from spending my childhood poking around my grandmothers’ closet. I have been lucky enough to inherit an incredible collection of pieces from the 50s, 60s, and 70s, and I think this mix of unique pieces and stylistic influences has fueled a constant drive to hunt for one’-of-a-kind pieces that have a story. Most of the time I’m wearing at least one vintage or second-hand piece, whether it’s vintage Levi's or a cashmere sweater from a vintage store.
A: A timeless piece in your wardrobe. What’s the one fashion item you consider a lifelong investment?
M: There are so many! But I would say this white leather fringe jacket. I bought it when I was 20 years old living in NYC, it was one of the first vintage pieces I invested in, I had inherited a lot of vintage from my grandmother but this was the first piece that I fell in love with.
It’s timeless, I’ve been wearing it for 15 years, with different outfits and it always works. It is structured, warm, but has the fringe which adds an element of fun. Contained but feels a little wild.
My latest “investment” piece is a black Chanel bag I picked up on my honeymoon in Tokyo—a little souvenir with staying power. I usually stick to vintage finds, so this was one of the first designer bags I bought firsthand. Now that I’m in my 30s, I find myself gravitating toward pieces with lasting value, the kind I can one day pass down, just as my grandmother did for me. It feels less like shopping and more like curating a future heirloom—at least, that’s how I justify it.
A: A place that truly inspires you… somewhere that sparks your creativity and reflects your aesthetic.
M: The Greek islands are my happy place- the desert landscape, the colors, the richness of the food and relaxed culture.
When it comes to hotels, one of the most memorable places I’ve stayed recently is La Cotte in Franschhoek, South Africa. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to drop everything and move to the countryside—or at the very least, come back as a bee buzzing around the grounds in my next life.
A: A beauty essential you always swear by.
M: Mascara is my go-to! People who know me well would say my eyes do a lot of the talking, so I figure they should at least look presentable. I’ve always thought they were one of my best features, so a little mascara helps make the most of them. Mostly it’s about looking awake enough for people to know I’m actually paying attention. My favorites are Glossier lash slick and Thrive.
A: A book every woman should read.
M: A recent fave is “The 7 husbands of Evelyn Hugo” This is a super fun read, and I hope they turn it into a movie because the costumes would be incredible.
A must-read for all women is “Three Women” by Lisa Taddeo, I read it several years ago and it’s a book that stays with you.
A: A boutique or store that feels like a hidden gem. Whether it’s a small fashion boutique, a concept store, or a vintage shop—somewhere that truly reflects your taste and style.
M: Merci in Paris may not be a hidden gem, but it perfectly captures my taste and style—effortlessly curated, timeless, and just the right amount of eclectic. In Milan, I adore Cavalli e Nastri; walking in feels like stepping straight into my grandmother’s closet, filled with beautifully preserved pieces that carry a sense of history and charm.
A: Are there any brands, pieces, or objects you’ve been eyeing recently?
Loeffler Randall, Demi Natural Embroidered Pant
Artesano, Napoli Extra Wide Brim
Alighieri, The Virgo Medallion
Laneige, Bouncy & Firm Sleeping Mask