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Q&A with Sarah Shotton, Agent Provocateur
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Q&A with Sarah Shotton, Agent Provocateur

Agent Provocateur’s Creative Director offers up bedroom secrets

Jon Sharpe
By Jon Sharpe, Chief Creative Officer

From femme fatale to goddesses in various guises, the many embodiments of the Agent Provocateur woman are at once drop dead gorgeous and always bedroom-ready. Stepping into the boudoir-beautiful Agent Provocateur world is to step into a considered operation that much thought and genii has gone into creating. Responsible for a big part of this is striking redhead and Creative Director, Sarah Shotton.

Having worked at the label for 13 years, where she began as the office assistant, it seems like there is no one more fitting for the role. “No two days are the same, and every part of my job is equally important,” explains Sarah. “One day I may be casting models for the new season’s advertising campaign, the next I may be developing new products to add to our sunglasses, fragrance or home ranges.” And with the brand having recently launched the Agent Provocateur Home collection, we caught up with the lingerie expert, who resides in Stoke Newington with partner Patrick and new baby son, to talk about her role and how to create the perfect, screen-siren-worthy bedroom.

Q: Talk us through your years at Agent Provocateur

I started as an office junior and I have worked in almost every department, but the most memorable job I had was being a shop girl at our Broadwick Street store. I loved helping women break out of their shell and try on items that they would never dare try on, such as suspenders and playsuits. Having been an AP shop girl definitely helped me in my role as Creative Director.

Q: How would you describe your at-home style?

It used to be dark, moody and quite a party flat. Now, times have changed and the dark grey walls are being transformed into a child-friendly, elephant’s-breath-hued, family home.

Q: If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Fun.

Q: What is your greatest source of inspiration?

I’m a serious film and music junkie – I love being lost in the mood and atmosphere. I also like referencing different periods in history for my colour palettes.

Q: Current obsession?

My newborn son.

Q: Who is your style icon and why?

I wouldn’t say I have one particular person but I am attracted by strong leading ladies such as Monica Bellucci and Elizabeth Taylor. To me, they are the ultimate dream women and embody what Agent Provocateur is about – beautiful, sensual, empowered.

Q: What fictional character do you most identify with and why?

From a creative point of view, Kim Basinger in LA Confidential.

Q: What’s the secret to developing one’s personal style?

When a woman has confidence, style comes naturally and I would say it’s more about how the woman feels.

Q: Whose home would you most like to steal?

My girlfriend Joanna’s house.

Q: What item can’t you live without?

My sketch book – I am still in the dark ages.

Q: What are your favourite at-home brands?

I love Feu de Bois candles by Diptyque and Pima towels by AP. In black, of course!

Q: What is your advice with these at-home essentials

Pillows

The more the better.

Good Bed Linen

Do not buy cheap bed linen.

Dark Colours

To recreate atmosphere.

Candles

Smell is extremely important.


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