Tastemakers Series: We Meet Model, Presenter & Influencer, Rabea Schif
If you’re in need of some fresh fashion inspiration and are yet to follow the impeccably stylish Rabea Schif, add her to your follow list immediately. The model, TV presenter and Instagram star has become one of our go-tos when looking for outfit inspo, from her referencing ’70s icons like Bowie and Birkin, to her way around a good suit, her love of vintage, to her unashamedly maximalist approach. It is clear that Rabea lives and breathes fashion, but it’s a passion that comes so naturally and so innately. We sat down with Rabea to delve into her hypnotic world of style…
What is your earliest memory of fashion?
One of my earliest memories of fashion is going shopping with my mom. She always looked incredibly glamorous when I was little. I remember how lucky I felt when I got to travel to Zurich with my parents – there was this one moment, so vivid in my mind, where she stood in a boutique, dressed head-to-toe in black, wearing Azzedine Alaïa. She looked so effortlessly chic, and I thought to myself, “Wow – what an incredibly stylish woman.”
My mom also used to dress me really fashionably, but I was always resisting dresses; I’ve always been more into trousers. Little overalls were my absolute favourite – and jumpsuits too. I just couldn’t stand tights as a kid; they were always so itchy!
How would you describe your style now?
I’d say it’s a bit of a mix – tomboy-meets-elegance-meets-comfort, with a dash of ‘70s spirit. Think Bianca Jagger-meets-David Bowie with a modern Julia Roberts twist – shoulder pads included. I love that edge, that balance between feminine and masculine. Maybe it’s best described as edgy, but chic, feminine and tomboyish, ’70s, but make it now. I like silhouettes that feel strong but also playful. Timeless with a twist.
My style is tomboy-meets-elegance-meets-comfort, with a dash of ‘70s spirit. Think Bianca Jagger-meets-David Bowie with a modern Julia Roberts twist – shoulder pads included.
You do vintage so well. What are the pieces you’ve collected that are most special to you?
Thank you. I truly love vintage – it tells stories that new clothes just can’t. One of my most cherished pieces is a vintage kimono I found in Brighton. I adore it. Then there’s a stunning silk blouse I discovered completely by chance in a little shop in Frankfurt. I slipped it on and it fit like a glove – it has shoulder pads and the most beautiful neckline detail. That’s definitely one of my treasures.
But maybe the crown jewel of my collection is a green suede leather suit I found at Portobello Market in London. I spotted it from across the way and instantly fell in love. It’s this gorgeous pistachio green, a vintage safari suit straight out of the ’70s. Honestly, it doesn’t get much better than that.
Which brands are your go-to for everyday?
I recently had a knee operation – and I have to admit – I’ve basically been living in Adidas Firebird track pants since. I wear them in every colour and love pairing them with a nice jacket when I’m heading out for dinner. They’re just so comfortable and easy.
Beyond that, I’ve always been a Gucci girl at heart. I also really love Sandro for everyday pieces. Lately, I’ve been drawn to the minimalist cool of The Frankie Shop – their silhouettes are just so clean and wearable. And I really admire the German brand Dorothee Schumacher. Her designs are feminine, strong, and beautifully made – there’s always something special in the details.
There’s a strong menswear influence on your aesthetic. Where do you shop for that?
I’m completely obsessed with Ernest W. Baker – it’s technically a menswear tailoring brand, but I absolutely love wearing great menswear-inspired pieces, and they do it better than anyone. Their cuts are sharp, timeless, and just have this cool elegance to them.
Phix London is another favourite – also known for menswear tailoring, but their suiting is incredible, and they do the best silk or crochet shirts. They’re my go-to when I want something a little bold but beautifully tailored.
Truthfully, though, I’m mostly a vintage girl. I don’t stick to just one or two brands – I prefer the freedom of mixing eras and styles. There’s something magical about wearing clothes that have already had a life behind them.
A suit makes me feel strong and bold, and honestly, it’s just more comfortable.
Where do you go for killer eveningwear?
For red carpet events, I adore Shu Shu Tong – they create such incredible, dreamy dresses with a twist. Rebecca Vallance is another favourite, especially for gowns or chic evening dresses. And even though German-based, Kaviar Gauche, is technically a bridal brand, their white suiting is beyond – so beautiful, modern, and perfect for events. Finally, Galvan London also does amazing eveningwear. Their silhouettes are so flattering and sophisticated.
I also love a beautiful suit. It’s such a strong look: elegant, sharp, and unexpected. I usually scout for unique pieces on vintage platforms like Vestiaire; they always have gems if you’re patient.
Speaking of, you wear a suit so well. Tell us about your love of tailoring.
Thank you! I do love a good suit – it’s my version of power dressing. Whenever I’m on stage presenting, I prefer trousers and a jacket. It makes me feel strong and bold, and honestly, it’s just more comfortable. I don’t have to worry about whether a dress is sitting right or adjusting things mid-event.
Where’s great to shop for suits?
When I want something special, Saint Laurent, Chanel and CELINE are my go-tos – the tailoring and their timeless edge always speak to me. For great, affordable suiting, I genuinely love Massimo Dutti. Their cuts are clean, and the quality is really impressive for the price.
What are your tips for styling a suit?
When it comes to styling, I always say the jacket needs to fit perfectly – that’s the foundation. A strong shoulder pad adds such a beautiful silhouette, and a wide-leg trouser with a relaxed, comfortable waistline is ideal, especially for long evenings or dinners. You can enjoy yourself, feel confident, and still look effortlessly chic.
Where do you love to shop for accessories?
I’m actually not a big accessories girl – I tend to keep things pretty minimal. But when I do wear something, it’s often vintage. I love pieces that feel like they have a story or a soul. I usually gravitate toward rings, and for that, one of my favourite brands is itsveert.com – a brilliant label out of New York. They do incredible signature rings and beautiful necklaces with a bit of edge.
I also love Daisy London. They make great chokers and delicate, wearable pieces that still have personality. I also rummage through my mom’s vintage jewellery all the time – she has the most amazing collection of old necklaces and treasures. There’s something special about wearing pieces that have been passed down.
I’m not a big accessories girl but I love pieces that feel like they have a story or a soul.
Ernest W. Baker also has some beautiful necklaces and signet rings, which are worth checking out.
What’s your approach to holiday dressing?
I try to keep it simple. I usually pack four or five of my favourite looks –tried and tested outfits that I know I feel good in. Weather can be unpredictable depending on the destination, so I like to have flexible pieces.
In summer, I always bring a silk kimono. It’s light, easy to pack, and works beautifully day to night. I also love a silk pyjama set – so chic and comfortable – and you can easily dress it up. Never Fully Dressed has great options for this.
Comfort is key when I travel, so I’ll often wear something like Casablanca tracksuit bottoms – they’re luxe but relaxed – and I’ll pair them with loafers or go more casual with sandals or sneakers. And I never forget a cap – essential for sun and rain protection.
If you could only wear one brand for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That really depends on who’s designing at the moment! I’ve always loved Gucci, but I especially adored Alessandro Michele’s vision – it was romantic, eclectic, and full of fantasy.
So, if I had to choose just one, I think it would come down to either Valentino, CELINE, or Saint Laurent. All three have such strong identities, but they also have the ability to shift and reinvent themselves, which keeps things exciting.
Can you share any fashion discoveries you think are cool right now?
I have to say the H&M x Magda Butrym collection was full of amazing pieces. Such a cool designer, and having access to that aesthetic at an affordable price point is so exciting. I’m a big fan of the H&M designer collaborations in general – they’re always full of treasures.
I’m a big fan of the H&M designer collaborations in general – they’re always full of treasures.
What was the last fashion item you bought?
Honestly, I haven’t bought anything in quite a while – I’m trying to be more mindful about consumption. But the last thing I did get was a pair of micro knitted shorts from The Frankie Shop. They’re such a great go-to when I want to throw on a jacket and tights and feel effortlessly styled. I love pairing them with a tee, a polo neck, or a crisp shirt for a comfortable but elevated evening look.
What are your beauty must-haves?
I’m obsessed with anything from the Korean skincare brand Laneige – their Water Bank line is a dream, especially for travel. Their little travel kits are so handy, and the hydration is next-level.
For foundation, I love Dr. Hauschka’s tinted range – it’s light, natural, and skin-friendly. When it comes to makeup, Charlotte Tilbury is my go-to for eyeshadows, Saint Laurent does an amazing mascara, and Gucci lipsticks always feel like a treat – luxurious but fun.
An absolute staple in my bag is YSL’s Touche Éclat concealer – it brightens up any tired moment. And for dry lips, I always reach for LA Bruket and Hourglass – they both know how to keep my lips healthy-looking and hydrated, no matter the season.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Most of my inspiration comes from films, TV series, and people-watching on the street. I also love flipping through old-fashioned books – the David Bowie coffee table book on his style is one of my absolute favourites.
I also love watching shows like Die Kinder vom Bahnhof Zoo for style ideas – there’s something raw and real in the aesthetic. Fashion films and documentaries always give me a spark, too – the Saint Laurent biopic, for instance, was full of incredible inspiration.
Who do you think has great style?
My mother had impeccable style when she was younger – truly iconic. I love that she doesn’t care so much anymore about what she wears, but when I was a child, she was always dressed up in Alaïa, Hermès, and the most beautiful, clean, and chic silhouettes. I remember just watching her in awe.
I’ve always admired the style of Bianca Jagger and Jane Birkin – timeless and so effortlessly cool, they just got it. And of course, David Bowie – his boldness, his flair, his fearlessness. Anyone from the ’70s, really. That whole era is just endlessly inspiring to me.
I also think Saint Laurent himself, back in the day, had an extraordinary sense of style – it was refined, sensual, and always ahead of its time. I watched a documentary on Marianne Faithfull recently, and was completely inspired by her look – so raw and stylish in such an understated way.
What destinations are on your travel list for summer 2025?
I would love to travel to Puglia, Sardinia, or Sicily – Italy is always calling, and for some reason, those places are right at the top of my list. I’m also dreaming of going to Japan this year. It’s been high on my bucket list for ages, and I feel like now might be the time to finally make it happen.
Another lifelong dream of mine is to see the pyramids in Cairo – there’s something so magical and otherworldly about that experience. I had the Orient Express on my dream list too, and I was lucky enough to travel on it from Venice to Paris recently – and my god, it was pure magic. I almost feel fulfilled for the rest of the year… almost. That said, I definitely want to get away this summer. It’s so important to feed your mind and soul with new adventures and fresh inspiration.
You used to live in London. Do you have a favourite neighbourhood?
I moved to London in 1997 and lived in Notting Hill, long before the movie came out. Back then, the area still had Rastafarians on the street and reggae music drifting through the air – it was such a vibrant, soulful place.
It’s still my favourite neighbourhood in London, hands down. I also have a soft spot for East London, but I always used to say: go out in East, live in West. West London just has a calmer, more relaxed energy – perfect for day-to-day life.
Where do you love to shop in London?
My absolute favourite shopping spot in London has to be Retro at Notting Hill Gate. I’m obsessed with the vintage treasures you can find there. I love strolling down Portobello Road – the whole stretch from Notting Hill Gate down is a goldmine for vintage lovers like me.
And, of course, Portobello Market is a must. Fridays and Sundays are the best days to go when you find the best gems. There’s just something about the energy, the unexpected finds, and the stories behind each piece that makes vintage shopping feel like a little adventure.
Where do you like to go out when you’re in the city?
I have to admit, I haven’t been back to London in about four months, and bars change so quickly. But a place I’ve always wanted to check out is The Little Yellow Door in Notting Hill. It looks so quirky and fun – they host supper clubs, boozy brunches, and all sorts of playful experiences.
I’m a big fan of Mexican food, and Taqueria on Westbourne Grove is always a favourite. For something quick, but delicious, I love grabbing a takeaway from Ottolenghi in Notting Hill – it never disappoints.
I love strolling down Portobello Road – the whole stretch from Notting Hill Gate down is a goldmine for vintage lovers like me.
Hotel-wise, Soho House is always a classic, but my heart belongs to the Portobello Hotel. It’s this beautiful little boutique place in Notting Hill where each room is unique and full of charm. The interiors are romantic and vintage, with English countryside vibes – just stunning.
Finally, what’s on your wish list right now?
At the moment, my bucket list is all about travel. As I mentioned, I really want to visit Cairo, Japan, and Sri Lanka – and going on a safari is another dream I’ve had for years. I’m determined to make at least one of those happen this year.
In terms of products… I know this might sound cheesy, but honestly, I feel like I have everything my heart desires. What I truly wish for is to stay healthy. That’s something money can’t buy, but it’s what keeps everything else in motion. Good health is the real luxury.
Follow Rabea on Instagram at @rabeaschif
PHOTO CREDITS: @LINATESCH | STYLING: @MIRIAMNOWAK_ | HAIR & MAKE-UP: @DENISE_GRUNDMANN / ARTNEST MIT PRODUKTEN VON LEPURECOM & @CHANELOFFICIAL FOUNDATION | BOOKING: @DIEGUTE_UTE / MÜLLERPRODUCTION.DE | STYLING ASSISTANT: @PAULA_KIESSLING
