Words: Holly
Petra is the daughter of Lord and Lady Palumbo, the former being the English Baron Peter Palumbo and the latter his Lebanese wife, Hayat. The London-based model and designer has become a recognisable face on the London social scene, garnering her ‘It Girl’ status, and with her modelling career just beginning to kick off, you can expect to see big things from this petite beauty.
Having graduated from the London College of Fashion, and with internships at Oscar de la Renta and Dior under her belt, it’s her passion for design and the business she runs with her mother that impresses us most. Set to be the girl to make needlepoint ‘cool’ again, we sat down with Petra at her home in Chelsea to talk work, fashion and the latest addition to her life – her black pug puppy, Walton, who she shares with her boyfriend.
How did you get into modelling in the first place?, It was actually Kate Bellm (who shot this story) who was the first person to ever photograph me when I was about 16 years old, but we did it just for fun back then. In May 2014 I signed with Next Talent, so it’s only been recently that I’ve started modelling professionally through them.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?, To be honest, I feel as though my career is only just about to take off, so I hope the main highlight will be my new bespoke clutch bag and slipper collection, which I’ll reveal at my trunk show in the spring.
How would you describe your own style?, I’d like to think that my style is eclectic, with lots of different prints and textures mixed with classic shapes – I wear a lot of vintage and ethnic clothes.
What’s your most precious piece of clothing in your wardrobe?, A vintage needlepoint skirt from Morocco.
Aside from modelling what do you do?, I work at my mother’s shop on Walton Street in London called Tapisserie, which was established in 1986. We specialise in hand-painted needlework using the finest quality canvas, hand-dyed French crewel wool and silk, as well as a large selection of cottons and metallics.
Designs range from 16th-century patterns right through to contemporary abstracts. We offer a bespoke service and our team of talented artists can adapt almost any design to your specifications, and we also offer a making-up service for your completed project. (For more information visit tapisserie.co.uk.) I’m in charge of brand development there, and as I mentioned earlier, I’m currently developing a new clutch bag and slipper collection. I’m also in the process of completing my embroidery technique certificate at the Royal School of Needlework.
When do you find you are most creative?, Late at night, when I feel like the rest of the city is asleep.
What inspires you?, It can be anything from a walk in Hyde Park, listening to music, visiting the V&A, a funny conversation, photographs on Instagram, a poem, interesting printed fabrics, costumes worn by the Ballets Russes, a building, a quote, travelling, or nature… the list goes on and on!
What’s your favourite thing about living in London?, For me, London is the perfect combination of Paris and New York. It has so much to offer. I love being surrounded by my family and close friends and having the V&A at my disposal. My favourite restaurant in London is Wilton’s on Jermyn Street, and my favourite bar is Dukes Hotel for one of their classic martinis.
What do you do to relax?, Sleep, have a bath or embroider a canvas.
What are your favourite holiday destinations?, Lebanon, Pennsylvania and Scotland.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years from now?, Hopefully happily married, with kids, a grumble of black pugs, a thriving business and still driving from A to B in my clotted cream Citroen 2 CV.
What do you think makes a man a gentleman?, Manners and kindness.
Photographed by Kate Bellm
Styled by Holly Macnaghten
For the full shoot, see our current issue.
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