Kathy Hilton, businesswoman and star of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, has long been a figure synonymous with glamour. But beneath the designer labels and lavish parties, a surprisingly pragmatic approach to style prevails. Hilton recently shared a core tenet she’s instilled in daughters Paris and Nicky: less is often more. The advice, offered while hosting an event for LoveShackFancy’s Sweetheart fragrance in Los Angeles on March 20, speaks to a philosophy of understated elegance that has clearly resonated with her daughters’ own iconic styles.
“A classic rule I’ve told Paris and Nicky is to be comfortable,” Hilton explained, emphasizing the importance of feeling at ease in one’s own skin—and clothing. “I’d rather be a little underdressed than overdressed due to the fact that you can always throw on fun earrings or change your shoes if you’re leaving work or getting off a plane.” This isn’t about eschewing style, but about building a foundation of confidence and adaptability. The key, she says, is to avoid appearing as though you’ve tried *too* hard. “You don’t want to come in with the whole kitchen sink and make a fool out of yourself. Dim it down a little bit. Just be fresh, pretty, and confident. That’s the best,” Hilton stated.
The Hilton Family Closet: A Shared Resource
The emphasis on effortless chic extends to a remarkably practical element: a shared closet. While Hilton acknowledges a size difference prevents her daughters from borrowing her shoes, jewelry, handbags, and accessories are frequently exchanged. “They can’t wear my shoes because I have a smaller foot, but they wear my jewelry, my accessories, and my handbags,” she said. She recounted a recent instance of borrowing a bag from Paris, playfully noting her daughter’s meticulous inventory management. “She was calling every day saying, ‘I’m going to come by and get my bag.’ … She knows her inventory and doesn’t forget, but I’m happy that she takes care of her things and that she’s appreciative.” This reciprocal borrowing speaks to a close-knit family dynamic and a shared appreciation for quality pieces.
Hilton’s own approach to accessories is similarly considered. Her handbag collection, like her overall style, is about enhancing, not overwhelming. She’s a proponent of mixing high and low, happily shopping at both luxury retailers like Bergdorf Goodman and more accessible stores like Target and Walmart. “I’ve always mixed high and low. I’m as happy at Target and Walmart as I am on the seventh floor of Bergdorf Goodman.”
Inside Kathy Hilton’s Everyday Essentials
Beyond the broader style philosophy, Hilton revealed a glimpse into her everyday carry. Her purse isn’t filled with frivolous items, but rather a curated selection of practical necessities. “I carry an eye mask that I found years ago at a drugstore in New York, pale pink silicone foot pads for comfort, my little fan, and my Lorna Murray hat because it gives an outfit a great look, makes me look a little bit taller, and keeps the sun off my face,” she detailed. Skincare is also a priority, with a focus on addressing chronically dry lips and maintaining neck health. “I’m also always trying the latest and newest product to moisturize my lips because they’re chronically dry, and I love the RéVive neck cream and can’t put on makeup without it.”
Fragrance, however, is non-negotiable. Hilton carefully considers her scent based on the occasion, reserving certain fragrances for specific settings. “I spray my perfume at the end, but I make sure I don’t have pearls on,” she noted, referencing a potential for damage. “I have a collection of fragrances… There are ones I would wear to a ladies’ lunch, and others that are romantic and sexy that I would wear after 5 p.m. For dinner with my husband.”
LoveShackFancy’s ‘Sweetheart’ and the Pursuit of Wellness
The event at Hilton’s Los Angeles home celebrated LoveShackFancy’s Sweetheart fragrance, a scent that perfectly embodies Hilton’s preference for a light and joyful aesthetic. Rebecca Hessel Cohen, founder of LoveShackFancy, described the fragrance as “so fruity and floral, and the bottle is the pinkest, most sparkly, and gorgeous… It’s perfect for spring and summer because it’s happiness in a bottle.” Hilton echoed this sentiment, adding, “I like to bring a little bit of summer everywhere I go… Hot girl summer every day, even in the winter.”
Hilton’s commitment to well-being extends beyond aesthetics. She prioritizes health and energy through regular Niagen IV treatments and daily Tru Niagen supplements. “I do Niagen IV treatments every week and take two Tru Niagen supplements every day to give me energy,” she shared. She described herself as a dedicated researcher when it comes to wellness, constantly experimenting with new products and sharing her findings with her daughters. “I’m a mad professor with putting things together. I always have my lotions and potions, and everyone loves it… My girls are highly into it and it’s fun to compare notes.”
Kathy Hilton’s style philosophy isn’t about adhering to rigid rules, but about cultivating a sense of self-assuredness and embracing a balanced approach to life. It’s a message that clearly resonates with her daughters, Paris and Nicky, who have both built successful brands around their own unique interpretations of glamour and confidence.
Hilton’s continued presence on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills promises further insights into her life and style. The show is currently airing its 14th season on Bravo, with new episodes released weekly, offering viewers a continued glimpse into the world of the Hilton family. Discover the latest updates and episode schedules on Bravo’s website.
What are your thoughts on Kathy Hilton’s style advice? Share your comments below and let us recognize how you incorporate these principles into your own wardrobe!
