Shellie Benson
Who are you here with? My husband, Julius Gaudio.
Florida connection: My parents live in Naples, and we just bought a lot here.
What are you wearing? A Fendi dress and capelet, Tiffany & Co. jewelry and Gucci sunglasses. The shoes I’ve had for a long time, and I just had them resoled. I went vegan, so I don’t buy leather anymore.
How did you choose this? I like the flexibility of a capelet if it gets cool, and I always like anything—like a cape—that has a superhero element.
What’s your fashion philosophy? I’m very big into practical and comfortable clothing—anything with pockets (because I don’t like to carry a purse), and anything with a sense of humor.
Are there designers you admire who follow the vegan philosophy? Yes, Stella McCartney.
Do you have any fashion influences? I admire the classics for [what they are], but you have to find what you feel happy in and what makes you smile.
Where do you most like to shop? Living in New York, I just walk out the door and find them all, but I especially like shopping in the [Greenwich] Village and SoHo.
What makes the most impact on a first impression? Whether someone is
comfortable and happy.