Timeless styling tips that never fade
Dress intentionally
Buy with intention, wear with intention, live with intention.
Friends often ask me – nodding toward someone passing by – “What would you change about her outfit?”
She may be wearing an outfit I would never choose for myself or recommend to a client. But if she carries herself with confidence, and I can see that she’s taken care in selecting her outfit, she has styled herself with intention – I wouldn’t change a thing. She has dressed with intention. Her personal style may not align with mine, but I couldn’t add any real value to her wardrobe.
I bring value to those who aren’t yet confident in their style, who are still discovering what truly suits them and what they genuinely love.
Enduring style
Twenty years ago, my idea of effortless style was simple: blue jeans, a crisp white T-shirt, a tan belt, and a black jacket.
Two decades later, that combination still works. I might swap in a silk collared shirt or change the jacket colour, but the look remains classic and striking for almost any casual or semi-formal occasion.
Choose pieces that will endure the passage of time.
However, permit yourself a few fashion-forward pieces each season, even if they may fall out of style by the following year.
Pointed toe shoes
I will always choose pointed over round toe shoes. They instantly add elegance – even to something as relaxed as a picnic outfit.
Travel in style
There are several good reasons to fly in an outfit that's comfortable yet chic. Not only will you look more polished than most of your fellow travellers, but you'll also give yourself the best possible chance of scoring a seat upgrade and better service.
Travelling can be exhausting. And if you arrive looking frumpy on top of feeling worn out, it may take even longer to feel like yourself again.
Travel is the perfect example of why dressing well matters: you leave a strong impression on others, and more importantly, you give yourself a valuable morale boost.
This principle, of course, extends to any outing or occasion you may have.
Belts
Introduces Texture or Contrast
A leather belt against a silk blouse, or a bold colour on neutral tones, adds depth and variety without overwhelming the outfit.
Signals Effort and Polish
A belt suggests thoughtfulness and attention to detail—qualities associated with elegance and confidence.
Completes the Look
Like jewellery or a great bag, a belt acts as the finishing touch that turns individual pieces into a cohesive, styled ensemble.
Less pattern, more presence
Most of the colour palettes I create for clients lean toward monochrome or solid tones. Patterns appear only as accents – a statement skirt here, a patterned dress there – never enough to overwhelm.
This restrained approach keeps the overall look clean and cohesive, while allowing each patterned piece to truly stand out.
Finding "just right" handbags
A well-made leather handbag is more than a stylish accessory – it’s an investment. Good construction and sturdy hardware mean the bag maintains its shape.
I try to choose bags with base studs to protect the bottom of the bag from scuffs, dirt, and moisture when you set it down, while adding a subtle touch of polish.
Handbags are perhaps the most personal element of an outfit. My ideal bag strikes a perfect balance of beauty and practicality: an exterior pocket with a magnetic snap for quick access, two interior zippered pockets for essentials.
For me, ease of use is as important as elegance, and a thoughtfully designed bag delivers both.
Every now and then, I encounter a handbag that truly feels like a work of art – just like these stunning pieces from Australian brand Aje.
Blazers beat jumpers – every time
One of the first additions I typically make to a client’s wardrobe is a jacket or two, as I believe they form the essential foundation for building numerous ensembles.
I’ve never been drawn to knitwear; given the choice, I’ll reach for a tailored jacket or blazer every time – irrespective of the season.
One rule I seldom break: sleeves must be rolled or pushed up. That simple tweak transforms the look – adding shape, showing a glimpse of wrist, and creating a sense of effortless style.
That said, there are plenty of stylish knitwear options that can perfectly complement any outfit. Be sure to choose pieces that retain their shape and structure over time.
It’s best to reserve your oversized jumpers for cozy days and relaxed evenings at home.
Invest, don't just spend
It takes time to curate a stunning, workable wardrobe.
Spending more on respected brands or Australian-made pieces pays off well beyond style. Higher-quality fabrics hold their shape and colour through countless washes, so you replace items less often and create less waste.
Choosing local makers supports jobs, fair wages, and strict labour standards—while reducing environmental impact. Trusted labels also tend to follow stronger ethical and eco-friendly practices than fast fashion.
One example is the Australian brand Aje, a particular favourite of my clients. I admire their flair for designing distinctive pieces.
But it doesn’t mean every piece must be expensive – I regularly mix in budget-friendly finds for clients, as long as they’re chosen with intention.
