Shelley Zalis, 52, is chief executive of Ipsos Open Thinking Exchange, an innovation centre for market research. She was awarded Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2008 in the online services sector, and is the founder of the Ipsos Girls’ Lounge, a networking group for women from business, entertainment and technology.

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Shelley Zalis
© Bryan Derballa

Trousers by Rag & Bone

I shop in colour blocks – black, charcoal grey and navy – and always opt for basics to mix and match. I travel approximately three days a week and need separates that make life simple and don’t require a lot of thinking. Rag & Bone capri jeans – in virtually every dark colour – are my wardrobe staple because they have a little bit of stretch and a tight, skinny leg that is flattering. I am 5ft 3in and don’t have time for tailoring and find that these jeans hit my ankle perfectly, right off the rack.

rag-bone.com

Jacket by Chanel

I love mixing classic and trendy pieces, edgier with softer elements, and a Chanel jacket in black, white or cream always pulls a look together. I’m also a fan of leather jackets by Iro, which are perfect for travel and wearable day and night. A flexible wardrobe is essential, and layering with jackets is key. I think a great jacket bridges the gap between casual and work environments.

chanel.com

Top by Rag & Bone

I like to dress with a twist, and one way I do this is by pairing longer Rag & Bone tops with jeans and assorted, fun jackets. I prefer casual, feminine tops such as this one paired with a tailored, workplace-appropriate Chanel jacket.

Shoes by Christian Louboutin

I love a 5in- or 6in-high heel – always with a platform – and I never wear flats. I love Christian Louboutin’s shoes in beige and black because they are the most comfortable, and work well with the outfits I pack in my carry-on bag. I never check luggage so this means I have to be smart about my packing – no extraneous trainers for me! I also love my pointed-toe Prada boots, which work well with trousers and are more feminine than a motorcycle boot.

christianlouboutin.com

Watch by Hublot

I have a collection of watches, both chunky and sleek, and I am wearing one with a grey leather strap, a silver face, and plenty of tiny diamonds. This is my rapper watch! I likesilver and gold finishes but never at the same time. I often pair my watch with colourful Hermès bangles. I buy watches and bracelets in various cities around the globe, and I am always looking to build my collection.

hublot.com

Necklace by Chanel

I love long necklaces – especially ones by Chanel – that incorporate pearls, beads, crystals and chains. These strands lend a playful touch to my outfit but look polished at the same time.

Handbag by Hermès

I am consistent and brand-loyal, so it’s always a Kelly or a Birkin bag for me. These styles – in colours from red to yellow to purple – work well because I can fit a laptop, wallet and papers inside and they really hold their shape. I usually go for pebbled leather as I find that soft leather tends to scratch. A good handbag and shoes are a must, and I love the hunt for vintage Hermès bags in resale shops in whatever city I find myself.

hermes.com

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