Leigh Williams has a presence that gently fills a room. Grounded, welcoming and effortlessly stylish, there’s an ease to the way she moves and speaks - a warmth that’s felt rather than announced. Based between Byron Bay and London, and originally from London, Leigh brings a depth of experience to her work as a senior stylist, paired with a refreshingly down-to-earth approach.
For Leigh, style extends far beyond the clothes themselves. It’s about authenticity and self-expression - how we choose to show up in the world and feel comfortable in our own skin. In this conversation, Leigh reflects on her journey into styling, the principles that guide her work today, and the way wardrobe, beauty and skincare intersect in everyday life. She also shares the rituals and products she returns to, offering a thoughtful glimpse into what supports her sense of balance and ease.
What was a moment that changed your perception of beauty?
Two moments come to mind:
A friend shared with me the idea that one's beauty doesn't change day to day. That beauty is not subject to having a 'good day.' If you feel off one day or have bad skin another, or if you're tired and have puffy eyes - none of that changes the beauty that is innate to you, your essence and who you are. This profoundly changed my perception of beauty.
Also, reading 'Divine Beauty' by the late Irish philosopher and poet John O'Donohue. It's big - I'm about 3/4 of the way through. His 250 page book explores every angle of beauty you could possibly imagine. I can only read 1 - 2 pages then I have to step away to think about all that he shared. It's such a beautiful, treasured book that I'll have forever.
What is your number one beauty product?
Foile Skin Sponge Serum! My skin is very sensitive and prone to acne, rosacea and scaring. This product has calmed, hydrated and evened out my skin tone like nothing else I've tried. It feels both light and hydrating and I know it won't disrupt or aggravate my skin in any way. My skin is incredibly dry and in summer this is enough (+spf) to keep my skin hydrated, which is honestly a miracle. I ran out for a few days before my refill arrived and I noticed a huge difference. Please never discontinue!
What skincare product or practice do you come back to if your skin is unbalanced?
Simplicity. Skin Sponge Serum and Jojoba Oil only and a gentle gua sha to stimulate and get things moving.
And rebalancing myself and my nervous system plays a huge part in this too. A swim in the ocean and meditation always helps me to rebalance.
What inspired you to become a stylist?
Magazines. I was enthralled by the beauty within the pages. As a teenager I loved the feeling of possibility - the glamorous editorials and beautiful locations and clothing. It was exciting to me - a wonderland I wanted to be a part of. Growing up I liked to express myself through what I wear - it came more naturally than anything else. I applied for work experience at magazines in London and the ball started rolling from there.
How do you approach helping clients feel authentic and empowered in how they dress?
What we wear is a creative act - whether we actively know and participate or not. It's a way we can express who we are in the world. For some, that's exciting and empowering, and others it's overwhelming. I've experienced both ends of that spectrum. If we want to align what we wear with how we feel and express ourselves from an authentic, empowered place, we need to start from our centre. What do we like? What do we value? What's important to us when we get dressed? Exploring these ideas brings light to who we are and what we need and from here we can express in a way that feels supportive, not performative or restrictive. When you know what's important to your foundation and creative expression, choosing an outfit that aligns with that is more easeful and enjoyable. It all starts with you.
“If we want to align what we wear with how we feel and express ourselves from an authentic, empowered place, we need to start from our centre. What do we like? What do we value? What's important to us when we get dressed? Exploring these ideas brings light to who we are and what we need and from here we can express in a way that feels supportive, not performative or restrictive. When you know what's important to your foundation and creative expression, choosing an outfit that aligns with that is more easeful and enjoyable. It all starts with you.”
What are some timeless styling tips you’ve learned throughout your career?
Dress from a place of intuition, not expectation. Trust what it is you want to wear and honour that - you can't go wrong.
More practically - if you want your look to emanate effortlessness - mess it up a bit. French tuck your shirt, push up your sleeves, undo a button or two. Make the outfit look like you're already halfway through the day / night.
How do you see the connection between beauty, wardrobe, and authentic self-expression?
They are all a matter of mindset. We could preen and prod and shop and style forever, but beauty is in how you behold it all. I love being reminded of the beauty in the small, everyday moments that are natural and authentic - like in a conversation with friends or seeing an outfit someone has chosen to wear that day. I love the way we all express ourselves in our daily actions when no one is watching. It's not easy, but the key to true self expression is acceptance of who we are and not shying away from expressing that.
What is your current skincare routine?
AM: Wash with water. Jojoba Oil and gua sha. Skin Sponge Serum then SPF.
PM: Dermaviduals face wash. Skin Sponge Serum. Jelly Moisturiser. Jojoba Oil to lock it in for sleep.
"They are all a matter of mindset. We could preen and prod and shop and style forever, but beauty is in how you behold it all. I love being reminded of the beauty in the small, everyday moments that are natural and authentic - like in a conversation with friends or seeing an outfit someone has chosen to wear that day. I love the way we all express ourselves in our daily actions when no one is watching. It's not easy, but the key to true self expression is acceptance of who we are and not shying away from expressing that."
What does a typical day look like for you?
My day to day fluctuates. For work, I can be WFH speaking with clients or working on the back end. I'm also often sourcing clothing for a shoot and styling on set.
In my free time, I aim to include movement every day - weight training, yoga or going for a walk or swim. I listen to podcasts (official ones and friends' lengthy voice notes we now lovingly call personal podcasts) and I love to read - right now I'm midway into 3 or 4 books. There's always lots of tea, chocolate and watching youtube videos scattered in there too.
What does feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin - and your own style - mean to you?
Honouring what feels right and aligned for you. Even if that goes against the grain.
You can watch our interview with Leigh Williams, along with her skincare routine & wardrobe essentials, on YouTube.
Interviewed by Jasmine Lum Sutherland
This feature is part of our Perceptions Journal — a space to share thoughtful perspectives on beauty, ritual, and connection. Discover more of Leigh Williams' work here.