ON THE STREET

If you run into Kate Hislop on the street there’s a fair chance she’ll be wearing colour - and a smile. And those two things are related. Kate, the owner of a small marketing consulting business and website and social media administrator for Stacey, says wearing colour brings her joy. Follow her journey on instagram @katestylediaries.

What are you wearing today?

I’m wearing my favourite colour today, pink! And lots of it. My hot pink Asta blazer and floral top is from Augustine. Super comfy Honey Denim jeans from Stacey, my favourite hot pink boots by Hey Monday, my pink earrings from Nelson designer Forever April, and my bag was a preloved find at Re:vive.

What is your style?

Feminine and colourful. Love what you wear, wear what you love! For me, that’s colour. 97-year-old fashion icon Iris Apfel says, “The key to style is learning who you are, which takes years. It’s about self-expression and above all, attitude.” Since working in the fashion industry, I’m finding my true style and always trying new designs to see what feels right. For me, wearing colour brings joy and brightens my day.

What is most of your wardrobe made up of?

Lots of colour! A mix of dresses, skirts, tops and shoes in my favourite colours and prints. Some classic staples in black, navy and grey, along with a drawer filled with scarves of different colours and textures. I enjoy wearing colour and try to incorporate that into most days.

Where do you buy most of your fashion from?

Stacey in Richmond. A close second is one of my favourite brands, Augustine. I also buy a lot of preloved clothes from a few fashion buy/sell groups on social media.

What is your approach to shopping?

If you love it, try it on. Don’t be afraid to try something new, a new style or colour. You never know what you’ll end up loving. Let your personality shine through your style.

What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?

A good pair of jeans, they never go out of style. Do you have a style rule you always obey?

Don’t save your faves! My mum saved her pretty things for special occasions, then died at age 47 from cancer (I was 18). Life is short, wear the outfit! Today could be special because we decided it will be, because we put on our favourite outfit and our “good” perfume. Just doing that is a great start to a potentially special day.

If you could raid one person’s wardrobe, who would it be?

I love Sarah Jessica Parker’s feminine style (or maybe it’s Carrie Bradshaw). She isn’t afraid to make a statement, experiment with fashion and embrace stunning colours and prints that create eclectic and edgy looks.