STEP INTO HER SHOES: Her style. Her story. Your inspiration.
Margit Kratky
Loafers are the elegant alternative to sneakers – perfect for everyday business looks, whether paired with relaxed jeans, dresses, or a tailored suit, says Margit Kratky, fashion designer, former magazine department head for titles such as WOMAN, WIENERIN & DIVA, and ORF style expert.
© Patricia Weisskirchner
As a fashion designer, I led the fashion departments of renowned magazines such as WOMAN, WIENERIN, and DIVA for many years. I was able to sharpen my eye for form, color, and impact at international Fashion Weeks and perfect it through fashion editorials. Today, as a business style coach, I support a wide range of women who want their competence, personality, and leadership strength to be perceived in a way that reflects their position. As an expert, I analyze fashion trends and regularly share practical tips on ORF’s “Studio 2.” For me, style is more than fashion: it is a precise tool for impact and success.
Even at school, it was clear: I wanted to create.
Training as a fashion designer was my first step, until chance led me into fashion journalism. Designs became editorials, three-dimensional concepts turned into visual stories. I analyzed trends, distilled them, and staged them. Over the years, however, one thing became increasingly important to me: timelessness. Quality. Substance instead of fast-paced trends. With the birth of my daughters, I founded my own small fashion label, “Meins & Deins,” focused on high-quality basics with a refined approach. Today, as a business style coach, I bring all of these experiences together.
Why is this shoe your personal favorite?
Loafers are the elegant alternative to sneakers and perfect for daily business looks. I particularly like the light, glossy appearance of the “Cedric” model. The shoe is very versatile—it works well with casual jeans, dresses, or a suit.
How would you style your favorite shoe in three different looks—for example, for the office, the weekend, and evening?
Daily business, e.g., in marketing & advertising:
Barrel-leg trousers with a crease, blouse, colorful accent with a sweater vest, trench coat, and subtle earrings. Socks or footies.
Daily business, e.g., in consulting:
Two-piece in dark brown with 7/8 trousers, pastel top with a tie, watch. Footies instead of socks.
Casual business or leisure, e.g., in the media industry:
Knee-length plaid skirt, cropped blouse with elastic hem, chain necklace & socks.
Casual business or leisure, e.g., in a start-up:
Straight jeans, tank top, cropped short-sleeve sweater, baseball cap, bandana. Footies or white socks.
Party with friends:
Satin skirt, tank top, denim jacket, statement earrings. Footies instead of socks.
What does Högl personally mean to you, and what do you particularly appreciate about the brand?
I appreciate Austrian design and local companies, especially in combination with responsible, sustainable production in Europe and a high standard of quality and aesthetics.
How would you describe your personal style in three words—and why?
Classics, clean silhouettes, conscious style breaks.
Which woman personally inspires you—in life, in your career, or in style—and why?
I am inspired by women who consciously follow their own path and have the courage to be imperfect, far from the perfection of social media. Especially those who radiate effortless elegance in everyday life while being fully aware of the impact they have.
What advice would you give other women regarding fashion and self-confidence?
ding Fashion should not disguise you—it should make you visible. Wear what suits your position, the occasion, and your personality, while also making you feel confident. Style is more powerful than any trend.
