Summer Fridays Co-Founder Marianna Hewitt Exudes Casual Elegance in Chanel Couture

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOFI ADAMS

On June 25, cult favorite skincare brand Summer Fridays co-founder Marianna Hewitt wore a white tee and a checkered mini skirt to the Chanel Fall-Winter 2024/25 Haute Couture show in Paris. The collection—Virgine Viard's last—pays tribute to the show’s location at the Palais Garnier, an iconic 19th century theater. The sophisticated, luxurious, and theatrical collection features feathers, tassels, cabochons, embroidered flowers, lacquered jersey, supple tweeds, silky velvet, puffy sleeves, and oversized bows.

For the show, Hewitt went for the casual elegance that has defined the House for over a century. Her white tee was tucked into a black, pink, and gray tweed checkered mini skirt. Over her shoulders, she wore a tweed jacket like a cape in similar colors. Hewitt styled the look with black sandal heels, a hot pink bag, and black sunglasses. She wore her hair down in natural, shiny waves and natural makeup that emphasizes the theme of casual elegance. 

Hewitt, who also hosts the "Life With Me" podcast, spoke to L'OFFICIEL senior features editor Carrie Wittmer about blasting Dua Lipa while getting ready, her first memories of Chanel, and, of course, skincare.  

L’OFFICIEL: How did your look come together? Was there inspiration?

MARIANNA HEWITT: My look is from the Pre-Fall 2024 collection, and I loved the combination of the chic t-shirt with the playful mini skirt. The look felt effortlessly stylish and was perfect for a sunny, warm day in Paris. The casual elegance really resonated with the Parisian vibe.

L’O: How do you approach hair and makeup? Do you come in with a plan or do you improvise a bit?

MH: I aimed for that quintessential Parisian effortless hair and makeup look to complement the T-shirt. I wanted something that felt natural and easy, like I just stepped out without too much fuss.

L’O: What do you do while you get glam: play music, chat?

MH: Today, I had Dua Lipa playing in the background while I got ready, sipping on an iced matcha latte in my room. On busier days, I like to play calming frequencies to create a zen atmosphere or even meditate a bit to center myself.

L’O: How does Chanel make you feel? 

MH: Chanel makes me feel confident, empowered, chic, timeless, comfortable, and effortless. 

L’O:  Favorite Chanel era or collection? 

MH: One of my favorite shows was the Fall 2014 collection set in a faux supermarket. It was such a whimsical and playful setting for the season, and I loved how it transported guests into a unique, imaginative world of Chanel.

L’O: Do you remember the first Chanel item you purchased?

 MH: I have fond memories of the first Chanel bag my mom purchased. We were in Venice, and she bought her first flap bag that she had worked so hard to get. She was incredibly excited and proud. I remember sitting in Saint Mark’s Square as she unboxed her newest treasure — a bag she still cherishes to this day. My mom is now fondly known as “Stripes and Chanel” because it’s become her signature look, and she passed on her love for Chanel to me.

 L’O: How would you describe your personal style?

 MH: My personal style is chic, comfortable, and casual, focusing on being put-together and timeless. It blends the elegance of Paris with the laid-back vibe of California, combining well-tailored, classic pieces with relaxed, versatile items for a sophisticated yet effortless look.

 L’O: Who are your style icons?

 MH: I often find myself inspired by Brigitte Bardot and Ines de La Fressange. I also adore Penelope Cruz's style from the 90s and 2000s. I have some photos saved of her from the Cannes Film Festival that still look fashionable today.