Cellotape Talks with Olivia K Morris
Olivia Morris is used to jumping between fantasy and reality, different climates and cultures and dealing with shifts in her wardrobe that might seem dizzying on paper but are all part of her work as an actress. In her fashion story for Cellotape she and her creative team switch from classic tailoring and confidence in a film noire mood through to images seen filtered through vintage windows that are nostalgic and pensive. It’s the rules of the job that there are no rules, it’s about a narrative, story telling and the way the story unfolds. As you explore these images you can see the versatility of the wardrobe and the switching of the story as in an Agatha Christie or a Raymond Chandler book. It’s fashion plot twists offer our leading lady the chance to show her range. To my writers eye Olivia and the team created a Cellotape fashion thriller, and I wonder which look is the real Olivia K Morris, and what and where is she going in these stylish looks? Or is it simply a trick and it’s exactly what it seems to be; great clothes, beautifully styled and shot and worn perfectly by the model, you decide.
Above; Shirt, Tie and Suit all: Bella Freud, Shoes: GH Bass Weejuns
Cellotape: Anyone whose fashion style you admire (doesn’t have to mean you’d wear it!)?
Olivia: I love Alexa Chung’s style. She’s so effortless and chic.
Cellotape: Wigs and makeup are part of a role, what most gets you prepared to act? Shoes, wig, jewellery, whatever?
Olivia: Costume is definitely a huge part of creating a character for me. I love turning up to the first fitting and seeing what the costume designer has on the rail. To see their vision for my character and begin melding our ideas together. One thing I like to do for each character is commit to a piece of costume for the whole of a shoot, whether it be a pair of shoes, a necklace or a watch, something I put on every day, almost like a ritual. Recently, I got to work with the amazing Lala Huete on a film called ‘Code of Life’, and at the first fitting, she handed me a beautifully understated vintage watch that she said brings good luck to her actresses. Putting that on every morning was so special and was a perfect way to begin each shooting day.
Above; Top: Meryll Rogge at Couveture & The Garbstore, Shorts: The Frankie Store
Cellotape: Any fashion mistakes from your youth you smile thinking back about?
Olivia: Oh my god, wedge trainers.
Cellotape: Any roles you’d love to play?
Olivia: I would absolutely love to play a doctor. I have played a lot of scientists and think that could be a fun next challenge, or a lawyer… I clearly have a thing for complicated dialogue.
Above; Shirt, Tie and Suit all: Bella Freud, Shoes: GH Bass Weejuns
Cellotape: In terms of awards, Red Carpet, occasions etc any fears, things you avoid, and any rules?
Olivia: I tape two of my toes together when I wear heels because I read somewhere that it helps with the pain (inconclusive results). Also, roll-on perfumes are a lifesaver.
Cellotape: Theatre, film, TV, what’s your favourite medium? And any plans, or focus in a specific area?
Olivia: I couldn’t ever pick one as a favourite, but I have two films coming out soon that I’m really excited about. Films rarely have the promise of a sequel like TV does, so knowing that this is all you have to tell the story gives a different kind of stamina and energy that I have really enjoyed. Saying that, there is nothing better than going back for a second season with familiar faces.
Above; Full Look: Eudon Choi
Cellotape: What designer’s clothes would you happily splurge on?
Olivia: I’m more of a window shopper when it comes to designer clothes. Now, if you asked about bags…
Cellotape: Ideal basics you repeat buy?
Olivia: A plain white tee, yet to find the perfect one. If anyone has any recs, let a girl know
Above; Shirt, Tie and Suit all: Bella Freud, Shoes: GH Bass Weejuns
Cellotape: What’s your view on how important fashion and clothes are for performers outside their working life?
Olivia: Sometimes I wish I had a costume designer creating a rail of clothes for me as Olivia, but at the same time, there is something so wonderful about returning home after a job to your own wardrobe, to clothes you may not have seen in months. I purposely leave some of my favourite pieces at home to reunite with them. I think personal style outside of work is so important. We spend a lot of time as actors being someone else away from our homes and families, so it’s good to remember to spend time as yourself too.
Cellotape: Fashion and you – how would you describe your “relationship”?
Olivia: Easygoing, fun and occasionally long-distance.
Above; Shirt: Meryll Rogge at Couverture & The Garbstore, Earrings: Shrimps
CREDITS:
Photographer: Kim Hardy
Makeup & Art Direction: Dani Guinsberg using Rare Beauty & Fenty Beauty
Stylist: Rachel Davis
Hair: Lydia Stewart
Talent: Olivia K Morris
Interview & Words: Tony Glenville
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