Nicole Scallan on Balancing Ambition and Minimalism: How a Fast-Paced Career Led to Effortless Style
My Style Formula: Minimal Decisions, Maximum Impact
I’d describe my look as minimalist, polished, and relaxed. My style is defined by a reliable formula: relaxed-fit jeans or trousers, a simple white tee or tank, and a blazer or jacket. Sticking to this formula frees up mental space for the rest of my day, whether I'm meeting with clients, managing my team, or mapping out a new brand creative strategy.
“I make a lot of decisions daily, so having a simplified wardrobe means one less thing to think about.”
The Khaite Benny Belt has been a great addition to my wardrobe. It’s such a versatile accessory that adds a cool factor to even simple outfits. Whether I’m headed to a client meeting or a casual dinner, a thoughtful accessory like this belt can transform a familiar formula into something that feels fresh and intentional.
Building a Timeless Wardrobe: Investing in Outerwear and Browsing Vintage
When it comes to shopping, I’m intentional. I look to a few luxury brands — like Toteme, Khaite, The Row and Saint Laurent — for inspiration and to guide my big wardrobe purchases, especially sweaters and outerwear that can last for years. But I also love more accessible brands like ANINE BING, Reformation for basics and dresses, and COS for sweaters and tailored pieces. The Frankie Shop is great for adding an unexpected twist to minimalism, while Tony Bianco and St. Agni offer chic footwear and accessories.
“Don’t chase trends that aren’t 'you'. Focus on building a collection of timeless, versatile pieces that feel authentic.”
I also shop vintage and resale often. If I’m eyeing a more expensive item, I’ll do a quick search on Poshmark or other resale sites to see if I can find it pre-loved at a fraction of the price. I’ve found some amazing pieces in my closet this way!
Alexis-n Coat
$223
$495
Revolve
Suede Trench Coat
$899
$1,695
FWRD
Tate suede trench coat
$1,464
$1,830
Mytheresa
Suede wrap coat
$3,125
$4,465
Mytheresa
Suede wrap coat
$1,333
$1,905
Mytheresa
Poseidone suede coat
$8,250
Mytheresa
Astraea suede coat
$644
$805
Mytheresa
Dakota shearling-trimmed suede coat
$1,284
$2,140
Mytheresa
Alexis-n Coat
$223
$495
Revolve
Suede Trench Coat
$899
$1,695
FWRD
Tate suede trench coat
$1,464
$1,830
Mytheresa
Suede wrap coat
$3,125
$4,465
Mytheresa
Suede wrap coat
$1,333
$1,905
Mytheresa
Poseidone suede coat
$8,250
Mytheresa
Astraea suede coat
$644
$805
Mytheresa
Dakota shearling-trimmed suede coat
$1,284
$2,140
Mytheresa
My all-time favorite find is a vintage chocolate suede YSL trench coat I discovered in a tucked-away vintage boutique in Paris. The moment I slipped it on, I knew it was something special, but I didn’t buy it right away due to the price tag. I couldn't stop thinking about that coat all day, so I rushed back the next morning. The shop owner told me she loved how it looked on me so much that she had set it aside, hoping I'd return. The coat was meant to be mine! Right now, I’m scouring Plush for a sheer black lace midi skirt. I have a folder of screenshots on my phone with inspirational outfits featuring these pieces, and I’m excited to find the perfect versions that blend seamlessly with my existing wardrobe.
Cotton and silk-blend lace midi skirt
$1,641
$2,345
Mytheresa
Le Stretch Lace Pencil Skirt
$98
Shopbop
Treize Lace Slip Skirt
$204
$425
FWRD
The Lace Midi Skirt
$318
FWRD
Silk And Chantilly Lace Skirt
$295
Revolve
Cotton-blend lace maxi skirt
$745
$1,065
Mytheresa
Natasja lace maxi skirt
$120
$240
Mytheresa
Ruched cotton-blend lace midi skirt
$60
$395
Outnet
Cotton and silk-blend lace midi skirt
$1,641
$2,345
Mytheresa
Le Stretch Lace Pencil Skirt
$98
Shopbop
Treize Lace Slip Skirt
$204
$425
FWRD
The Lace Midi Skirt
$318
FWRD
Silk And Chantilly Lace Skirt
$295
Revolve
Cotton-blend lace maxi skirt
$745
$1,065
Mytheresa
Natasja lace maxi skirt
$120
$240
Mytheresa
Ruched cotton-blend lace midi skirt
$60
$395
Outnet
From Unpaid Internships to Global Fashion: Embracing the Startup Spirit
Throughout college, I had dreams of moving to New York to work for a fashion magazine. I started applying for jobs my last semester, but the only roles I heard back from were unpaid internships. Then a friend of mine sent me an Instagram DM that ANINE BING was hiring their first copywriter. The brand was so small at the time, only about 20 employees. I reached out to the team to apply, and a few Facetime calls later, I was hired. That first role quickly evolved into a photoshoot producer role, and eventually, I found myself leading creative operations – right as ANINE BING exploded into a global brand. It’s where I realized I love startups and the challenge of building something from the ground up.
Today, I lead creative and business operations for a boutique consulting firm that advises fashion and beauty e-commerce brands. The diversity of my work keeps me engaged and always learning — and it perfectly mirrors my approach to style: ever-evolving, but grounded in clear intention.
I started using TikTok in 2021, initially as research for my fashion clients as an advertising platform. Eventually, I felt inspired to start posting my outfits on TikTok as a bit of a creative outlet. I enjoyed posting on TikTok precisely because I didn't have a following at first – it felt like a low-stakes way to experiment with shooting and posting content of my own. Fast forward to 2024, posting my OOTD videos on TikTok became a ritual I looked forward to every day. My posts started to gain traction, my following grew, and it opened up opportunities for me to start sharing my personal style, and to partner with brands I love.
Career Advice: It’s Okay Not to Love Where You Are — Keep Building
Looking back, my journey has been a series of pivots and opportunities — some of which came exactly when I wasn’t where I wanted to be. That’s how I ended up at ANINE BING in the first place, and how I continue to discover new avenues in consulting. The key is to keep learning, stay open to unexpected paths, and remember that each step is valuable, even if it’s not your ultimate dream job.
“If you’re someone who can solve problems, you’ll find opportunities everywhere. Start where you are, even if it’s not where you want to end up.”
To my 20-year-old self: Slow down. I spent most of my early twenties fantasizing about being a chic career woman in my thirties, and was in such a rush to get there. Now, with the benefit of hindsight and perspective, I realize that life chapters are fleeting, and each one is special and important in its own way. I’ve tried to slow down and be more present the last few years to appreciate the journey instead of frantically pursuing a destination.