Style council: Adelaide’s 25 most nattiest dressers share their sartorial secrets
Style isn’t always easy to define, but you know it when you see it. And it can’t be bought. Here we look at 25 Adelaide people whose look is always on the money.
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Home to the world’s top model Adut Akech and fashion legend George Gross, Adelaide has a number of high-profile people with style that stands out from the crowd. Think Professor Nicola Spurrier and Sandy Verschoor, who always look smart; or walking work of art, Poh Ling Yeow, of MasterChef fame. We asked our top 25 stylish people in Adelaide to share their sartorial secrets – and their pick for Adelaide’s most stylish individual.
DAMIAN PORCARO
Westfield’s switched-on stylist channels Miami Vice men Crockett and Tubbs and always puts on a good show.
Your look
Retro with a modern twist. I’m an 80s guy at heart, so think double breasted blazers, pastels and rolled-up sleeves.
Go-to fashion haunt?
When I’m not making my own pieces, I like to mix a bit of high and low together. I love searching for an interesting find on ASOS as much as I love grabbing something from David Jones or mrporter.com.
Who does your do?
When it comes to barbers I can’t go past the guys at H Barber. They always do a great job.
Where do you get your groom on?
When it comes to skincare, I love using my fave products from hairgang.com.au, but if I want to treat myself I wouldn’t look past Elixir Skin Fitness.
What makes someone stylish?
It’s so subjective, but for me what I find stylish is when someone has given thought and consideration to what they have decided to wear instead of just putting on the latest thing. When it feels organic and is an extension of themselves and their personality, that brings out their inner confidence … that’s real style!
Who’s got it in the bag?
There are way too many stylish women in Adelaide to mention. It must be something in the water! But, going on the menswear theme, Steve Tilley sure knows how to rock a suit!
LAUREN DILENA
Also part of Westfield’s styling team, this fashionista’s also on the books at modelling and talent agency, The Models.
Your look
My style really depends on what mood I’m in. It varies from minimal and tonal styling to eclectic, mixing vintage and modern pieces together.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I don’t like to limit myself, so I shop anywhere and everywhere – whenever I get a chance, all over SA!
Who does your do?
Zohair
Beauty fix?
Elixir Skin Fitness
What makes someone stylish?
It’s the ability to recognise their best assets and showcase them through clothes to express their individuality.
Who’s got it in the bag?
My Mum, Sue Dilena
SALLY KOLBIG
A high flyer in the finance world, this brunette bombshell’s on the money when it comes to power dressing.
Your look
Feminine, classic.
Go-to fashion haunt?
TuYu Adelaide at North Adelaide or By Johnny, Bec & Bridge and Alice McCall online.
Who does your do?
Soho Haircutters
Beauty Fix?
The London Skin Clinic.
What makes someone stylish?
A smile and confidence along with good quality clothing and accessories. Less is more.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Janet Cellier of North Adelaide. She is Adelaide’s very own Iris Apfel.
NATALIE BLAGDAN
This girl-about-town’s a modern day Audrey Hepburn, who never puts a foot wrong in kitten heels and little black dresses, topped off with a pixie cut that suits her to perfection.
Your look
It’s a mix of retro, rock chick and sex kitten.
Go-to fashion haunt?
When I shop I go to places such as Kookai, Forever New and Decjuba and I also have many pieces in my wardrobe sourced from op shops.
Who does your do?
Yellow Strawberry at West Lakes.
Beauty fix?
I get facials at Laser Clinics.
What makes someone stylish?
I think dressing for your body type is more important than following fashion trends. If you feel great, you will appear more beautiful/confident.
Who’s got it in the bag?
My bestie Emma Hack is an Adelaide style icon. She always looks gorgeous.
PAUL VASILEFF
Famous for dressing style icons such as Sharon Stone, Kim Kardashian and Katy Perry, the founder of Adelaide couture house Paolo Sebastian’s one sharply dressed man.
Your look
Very classic, tailored and traditional, I like clean lines and tend to play it safe with navy. In contrast to the work I do for Paolo Sebastian, my own personal style is very simple.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Calibre, but I also get a lot of my suits custom made at Unique Tailoring.
Who does your do?
Monsoons for Hair have been looking after me for 28 years. They are an awesome team.
Where do you get your groom on?
For anything skin related, Teresa at Visible Changes has been a life saver. I suffer from eczema and she’s done so much to help me get by skin back in shape.
What makes someone stylish?
You can tell a lot about a person from their style and dress sense. They way a person carries and holds themselves is what makes them stylish and the way they put themselves together, whether it be for a gala ball or to the gym. A lot of people think you need to spend a lot of money or buy designer clothes to have great style, but that’s not the case. I think it’s about how you use what you have.
ANNA DIMOND
The creator of Palas jewellery, which is known and loved for its spiritual messages, this businesswoman’s inner beauty always shines through.
Your look
Classic and sophisticated with a sexy edge.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Saintgarde in Melbourne St, North Adelaide
Who does your do?
Coco’s Hair & Day Spa, Stirling
Beauty Fix?
Coco’s
What makes someone stylish?
Understated, well cut, good quality clothing accessorised minimally with beautiful shoes, bag and jewellery. No embellishments or logos.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Jane McMahon
KATE FREEBAIRN
She may have moved to Victoria – where she’s presenting the weather for both Adelaide and Melbourne’s 10 News – but, whenever she’s back home, she brings it with Grace Kelly-like charm.
Your look
Clean, minimal and neutral. I go by the rule “less is more”.
Go-to fashion haunt
My favourite place to shop in Adelaide is Denim Iniquity on King William Road - it stocks the best Australian designers.
Who does your do?
For hair, it’s Joint at Parkside.
Beauty Fix
The London Skin Clinic is my go-to for facials and skincare.
What makes someone stylish?
The most stylish people are those who don’t fall into the trap of following too many trends.
In Adelaide, it has to be Julia Ritorto and Kathryn Forth – the co-designers of my favourite SA brand, Acler. They can do no wrong.
PAULA NAGEL
Clocking up more than five decades in broadcasting and the boardroom, this timeless glamour girl is never fashionably late.
My look
Essentially my style is timeless and simple, mainly black/navy and versions of designers like Armani mixed with “high street” pieces. Now with silver/grey hair I sometimes add, say jackets/shirts, in solid and bold colours.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Until the “curse of COVID”, I had several go-to fashion stores in Sydney, including my favourite Italian shoe shop with shoes that fit my horrible feet
Who does your do?
I’m blessed with Italian hairdresser who has only several private clients and whose mother worked with the original Madame Josephine.
Beauty fix
I always wear make-up because it is part of my sense of style that started in my early years on (ABC) television.
What makes someone stylish?
Confidence and a personal sense of style that doesn’t imitate others, but is based on simple lines and good grooming.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Paul Vasileff from Paolo Sebastian
MANDY NASH
She might be a top make-up artist, but this pocket rocket always colours outside the lines when it comes to her cute and quirky outfits.
Your look
Quirky and colourful.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Red Cross Vintage on Rundle Street or Chaos Bazaar on Goodwood Rd
Who does your do?
SJ Establishment on Prospect Road
Beauty fix?
Prana Healing at Hyde Park
What makes someone stylish?
Adding their individual flavour and creativity to an ensemble.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Natasha Evele
MIRELLA ROMANO
The Sunday Mail fashion guru, who’s worked with supermodels such as Miranda Kerr, Megan Gale, Jennifer Hawkins and Adelaide’s Madison Stubbington, is a role model for future fashionistas.
Your look
I don't like to define my style. These days as I dress depending on my mood and what I feel comfortable and confident in. I definitely love clothing that has some interesting detail, a great print, luxe fabric and is flowy. I’m obsessed with the tailored blazer (I have about 20) and I love wearing a maxi dress.
Go-to fashion haunt?
As a stylist I am always around different stores so tend to pick up my fashion from everywhere but I love Denim Iniquity and David Jones. Online, I love to shop on theoutnet.com or for a splurge I can’t go past net-a-porter.
Who does your do?
Damien Rinaldo from Boris The Cuttery
Beauty Fix?
I go to Shaun Douglas-Galley at The London Skin Clinic for my facials.
What makes someone stylish?
Someone who is not a slave to the latest fashion trends or designer labels but instinctively knows what will look good on them and isn’t afraid to make a fashion statement is stylish. They are effortlessly chic and interesting at the same time.
Who’s got it in the bag?
There are definitely a lot of stylish people in Adelaide but my personal favourite would be Lilli Reljic. She has a great sense of her own style and knows how to have fun with it. I would love to raid her wardrobe!
SARAH ABBOTT
This public relations queen is on-brand, if the brand you’re talking about is classy and covetable.
Your look
I like to mix it up so, I don’t have one consistent style some days city chic with lots of variations of white and cream and other days flamboyant with pop colour for a bit of fun … I am also very partial to active/sport style … who doesn’t love wearing stretchy leggings!
Go-to fashion haunt
One Rundle Trading and Denim Iniquity
Who does your do?
Nicole Price
Beauty Fix?
Endota at Burnside or Norwood
What makes someone stylish?
Stylish people aren’t slaves to fashion, they’ll add a new piece to their wardrobe if it fits in with their style. They don’t feel a need to wear the latest trend. Stylish people may have a philosophy around the fabric, the tailoring, colour combinations or the shape.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Julia Dowling
FRANK SEBASTYAN
Known to strut around Burnside Village in gold brogues, this retired, but never shy and retiring, business man is also the world’s oldest male model. Signed with Finesse Models Australia, he’s been known to stop traffic with his out-there outfits.
Your look
Funky Modern.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Online, it’s Farfetch and Lyst. In Europe, the Hugo chain, which is not available in Australia. Hugo is the funky sector of Hugo Boss. In Australia, Harrolds in Melbourne and Sydney carry great brands. (Frank, we’ve also seen you in Zara at Burnside…)
Who does your do?
My barber is Christine, my wife.
Where do you get your groom on?
I don’t do facials.
What makes someone stylish?
They are brave and not afraid to put themselves out there when it comes to colour and style. Be different, don’t be a sheep, have personality and be an individual.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Rebecca Morse. She always looks amazing and was the best newsreader. She also barracks for Port Adelaide. If I owned a TV station Rebecca would read the 6 o’clock news. She has style and class.
KALILA STEWART-DAVIS
Kalila & Namoi’s founder knows what women want when it comes to stylish and sophisticated resort wear and she’s also her own best advertisement.
Your look
I hope it’s elegant, feminine, timeless but occasionally a little eccentric, sexy and dramatic too.
Go-to fashion haunt
I tend to wear a lot of my own label, Kalila & Namoi, but for shoes I always find something great at Miss Gladys Sym Choon.
Who does your do?
Jo from 744 & 20, my neighbours on Glen Osmond Road. It’s incredibly handy having your hairdresser a few doors down. You’ll often find me popping back to the shop while my colour processes to keep working. Jo does a fabulous head massage and blow-dry.
Beauty fix?
Always my go-to birthday present. It’s Janesce for facials and Soe Bio Therapies on Magill Road for a massage.
What makes someone stylish?
I think it’s a quiet confidence. I love people watching. Stylish women always stand out, sometimes in very subtle ways, and they are often my greatest source of inspiration.
Who’s got it in the bag?
I’ve been thinking about this all day and I have found it difficult to choose one. I think all the women who I worked with at George Gross & Harry Who are some of the most stylish in Adelaide.
LUCY MACGILL
With a passion for fashion, this down-to-earth stylist puts together heavenly outfits and is a godsend to her time-poor clients who want to look a million bucks.
Your Look
My style is pretty laid back … I guess you could call it laid back luxe. I like to feel effortless and pretty relaxed in my outfits. Trainers have replaced heels possibly a little too much.... but, hey, the Athleisure vibe is what 2020 was about, I guess. I do however like to mix it up each day depending on my mood. Each day is a new way to play, create, set my mood and tone for the day. It’s just within me.
Go-to fashion haunt
Online: Farfetch
Adelaide: Denim Iniquity
Consignment: The Real Real or Vestiaire Collective. In a world moving to slow fashion, conscious consumerism and less waste, these are great platforms to pick up your high end or sell your high end. I just bought an Isabell Marant jacket for half the retail price.
However, I do use Zara for my clients and myself for fillers and to create a look around your key pieces, be on-trend relevant and chic without a big investment. They are an amazing global business and have good sustainable strategies in place.
Who does your do?
Hair Machine Glenelg, where owner Fiona looks after me, or Joint in Parkside - Emmy and her team run such a cool, fun business.
Beauty fix
I go to LuLu Michell. She is so nurturing and incredible at what she does.
What makes someone stylish?
Well, think of it this way: not everyone is good at tennis but if they focus on it, get a tennis coach and make it a priority they can become good at it. That’s why a lot of women choose to book me as a stylist. They don’t want to think about it. They have other skills, amazing careers, and get me to make them look stylish. Then, there are those who really study the magazines, love to come up with amazing looks, share their passion for all things style and are always on to the next hot brand. It’s just within (them), I think.
Who’s got it in the bag?
1. Jane McMahon
2. Julia Dowling
They both nail it every time. And you can’t not mention Ros (Ellery) from Denim Iniquity in this conversation.... the matriarch!
JAYNE-ANNE POWER
By day she’s general manager of the Wolf Gang, but by night this fierce fashionista turns into singer-songwriter Jay Power wearing her soulful heart on her stylish sleeve.
Your look
Classic French, tipping toward androgynous with a touch of rock chick. I have a swishy boho shiny side that likes to break out from time to time, but rarely puffs or pretty, there’s always a toughness.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I like to buy quality labels and “keeper” pieces on eBay. The beautiful pieces people sell unworn and BNWT (brand new with tags) is unbelievable. I bought an incredible emerald green velvet Saint Laurent smoking jacket from a girl who only wore it once to a job interview. Win!
Who does your do?
I am devoted to Basin Haircutters on Goodwood Road and have been for decades. My hairdresser Mandy is a master cutter and knows what to do with my 1000 tons of straight hair.
Beauty fix?
It’s my house for facials. I can’t bear spending the time lying in a salon, I get too wriggly.
What makes someone stylish?
When they pursue the aesthetic that makes then happy without trying to please other people. When they have something of their own to say and dress for their own shape and tastes.
Who’s got it in the bag?
So many! I work in fashion and most of my friends are musicians, artists and designers so how to choose?! Interior designer/stylist Maz Mis is a lifelong friend and oozes sophisticated, easy style. My incredible singer friend Carla Lippis has mastered glam/scary chic and I love her in-your-face fabulousness so much, plus she is a make-up freak. I could go on …. Adelaide has plenty of stylish citizens.
DAVID HANK
Back in his hometown, where he’s got a gig with local legend Miss Gladys Sym Choon, you only have to look at him to see he’s an international stylist who’s worked with, in his own words, all the big names from Kenzo to Kmart.
Your look
It’s kinda eclectic and playful I guess. I was pretty influenced by working as a stylist in Tokyo for many years. I like to mix things up, and semi-thoughtfully chuck things together. It’s not everyday, but sometimes when I’m not sure what to wear, I just come up with a theme. This week I was like what would Kel from Kath and Kim wear today, or, “What if I were staying at my sisters place in Marrakesh?” Sounds weird, but makes getting dressed a bit more fun.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I go to any store if the lights are on and there’s a park out the front as you never know what you’ll find. My regular go to stores: Mr Choon, Zara. The Lion the Witch Vintage, Pineapple and Midwest Trader for great vintage. Op shops for fun finds, and Costco for Tommy Hilfiger undies.
Who does your do?
I get my hair cut by Marc at Mr Bird on Port Road. It’s always fun, and you never know what weird ever-changing shenanigans he has decorated the salon with.
Get your groom on?
I moisturise heaps with anything at hand per Maggie Tabberer’s sage advice. My favourite is anything by a fantastic Adelaide company OmMade.
What makes someone stylish?
Honesty, guts, self-confidence, give-it-a- go attitude, individuality and a sense of humour, I reckon. Clothes don’t maketh the (wo) man, but they can help you make you feel good.
Style is a very individual thing, thank goodness. There’s no rules. Style is not fashion. Style is confidently playing and experimenting with, putting your inside on your outside with stuff you like, whether it’s your clothes, or your home, or even garden.
Who’s got it in the bag?
The girls at Miss Gladys Sym Choon all have individual styles I love. Lionel, who dances to his boombox in Rundle Mall, has really great style. Mariot Kerr, the costume designer. Heather Croall, who runs the Fringe. People who turn my head or make me smile have style. The older Adelaide ladies I love are now pulling the “night time outfits” out and confidently wearing them during the day. I love seeing a vintage sparkly vintage George Gross top teamed with jeans and sneakers, and not collecting dust in a wardrobe. I also like the guys I see around channelling a bit of Harry Styles’s individuality.
TAMARA NICOLE
Happy to share her tricks of the trade, this stylist and personal shopping and wardrobe consultant works her magic around town, where her own inimitable style always turns heads.
Your look
Classic with an eclectic twist. I like to keep my wardrobe staples classic and timeless then team them with eclectic accessories or a bold statement piece. I am a lover of vintage, especially vintage bags and dresses. Wearing a simple classic outfit and teaming it with statement accessories that you love is the perfect way to create and express your own personal style.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I love vintage and eclectic pieces so Gilles St Markets is great to find those pieces. I love to visit Bronwyn from Vintage Fox and find gems on Dulcie’s Bus. I also love looking for preloved treasures at Pre Love at Hove and Mekko Market on Prospect Road.
Who does your do?
PipSqueak In Saigon at Hove. Harley is amazing, I always come away feeling great. What I love about them is that they use environmentally friendly, sustainable chemical-free products.
Beauty fix?
I am loyal to Jurlique for skincare. I’ve been using their products since I was a teenager. My staple three products are their Moisture Replenishing Day cream, Herbal Recovery Serum and Rose Hand Cream. For beauty, Courtney from @Lashwellnessstudio is the lash and eyebrow queen and for overall health and fitness I am a regular at KX Pilates Brighton for reformer pilates classes that are a fast paced, high intensity all over body workout.
What makes someone stylish?
Someone who can confidently express their own unique personal style and love what they are wearing is stylish. They know what shapes and styles suit their body shape and what colours are flattering for their complexion.
Who’s got it in the bag?
I think there are so many stylish people in Adelaide. I see many stylish people in day-to-day life, in the street, at the supermarket or cafe. Strangers that I can admire from afar at their outfit choice, how they have put it together and the confidence they radiate wearing it.
KELLY GOLDING
This travel and lifestyle writer/presenter and voice artist’s style and grace, which speaks for itself, has put her on the fashion map.
Your look
Classic, relaxed, with a bit of vintage rock chick.
Go-to fashion haunt?
David Jones
Who does your do?
I see a mobile hairdresser who comes to my house, Justin Langley.
Beauty fix?
Pure the Essence of Nature in Unley.
What makes someone stylish?
Effortless chic. Someone who’s true to themselves.
Who’s got it in the bag?
My late mother-in-law, Alison, was always very stylish.
KAREN BAVA
With her ravishing red Rapunzel-like locks, this hairdresser long been a class act on the local fashion scene where she and husband Robert Bava founded Parlour Hair in the 1990s.
Your look
Classic Minimalist with a touch of flamboyant maximalist. I love beautiful textiles, strong silhouettes and meticulous craftsmanship, I also prefer dressing for winter, I’m addicted to jackets and coats.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I invest in pieces to keep and wear for a long time so matchesfashion.com is my go-to, they carry most of my favourite designers. For workwear, I love to shop at Cos for their interesting shapes and textiles.
Who does your do?
Parlour Hair, the entire team are so friendly and really are exceptional when it comes to colour and haircuts. I like to have a weekly blow-dry; it’s my favourite hour in the week.
Beauty fix?
Beauty Secrets Norwood, They have so much knowledge and experience with skin, I’m a bit lazy with my skincare routine, so they customise a plan that I can manage.
What makes someone stylish?
I love to see a person confident in what they’re wearing, not driven by trends or seasonal looks. A pioneer who has a unique perspective and isn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd definitely defines a stylish person to me.
Who’s got it in the bag?
I have always admired Lilli Reljic’s style. She has such an individual expression and she appears to have fun with fashion too – I think that’s important.
JOANNA ARUL TROPEANO
She’s made a name for herself as an outstanding vocalist with the Gospo choir, and is also on song when it comes to creating key looks that hit the right note.
Your look
I dress according to my mood and for whatever the day holds as performer, teacher and a stylist/blogger. I look to clothing to empower me; while I love experimenting with the latest, I always lean on timeless pieces. In my wardrobe you will find sequins beside denim and designer labels next to op-shop finds – I even borrow my grandma’s clothing. If I had to put it into words, my style is playful, edgy, a little bit extra with a side of functionality.
Go-to fashion haunt?
TuYu Adelaide and Zara
Who does your do?
Freelance hairdresser Alex Visintin.
Beauty fix?
Farrago Skin & Body
What makes someone stylish?
Someone who invests in themselves by making the most of their individuality; a comfortable and confident person.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Any person who loves the skin they’re in and styles themselves to enhance their uniqueness. It’s about a “feeling” they give off, not just a look.
LAURA URSINO
With clients including the Adelaide Film Festival, this marketing consultant always looks the part– and steals the scene – on the red carpet.
Your look
My style is minimalist. I dress to my body shape. I can’t go past a pair of jeans, a plain tee, blazer and pumps!
Go-to fashion haunt?
Zara and Acler. I always find something!
Who does your do?
I have big curly hair, when I want a blow-dry, I go see Natasha at Mister and Her – she can turn this afro into straight silky hair!
Beauty fix
You can’t go past The London Skin Clinic. They make magic happen!
What makes someone stylish?
Wearing clothes that suit your body and not overdoing it. A plain black dress can look both stylish and sophisticated.
Who’s got it in the bag?
I have girlfriends that are so chic and unique. They are my inspo!
ALLISON MINCHINGTON
The Tiffany & Co’s director for Adelaide and Perth has an effortless elegance that is timeless with a twist.
Your look
Black with a sprinkle of diamonds.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Tiffany & Co, Morrison, Aje, Viktoria and Woods, Bec and Bridge
Who does your do?
Mel Young in Waymouth Street. I have been going to her for 15 years.
Beauty fix?
About Face Clinic at Somerton Park.
What makes someone stylish?
Staying true to what works for you.
Who’s got it in the bag?
The face of the new Tiffany & Co T1 collection and Adelaide girl Adut Akech.
TAYLAH MINCHINGTON
Raise a glass to Label Partners’s account manager who has a spirited sense of style that’s a cool mix of chic and rock chick.
Your look
Classic with a rock 'n' roll edge.
Go-to fashion haunts?
Tiffany & Co, Denim Iniquity, Harvey Seeker and Anine Bing.
Who does your do?
Mel Young in Waymouth Street.
Beauty fix?
Facialistas
What makes someone stylish?
True style is about being yourself. It’s more of an attitude than any item of clothing.
Who’s got it in the bag?
My mum, Allison.
MARIOT KERR AND DRILLER JET ARMSTRONG
Sugar nightclub’s dynamic duo – she’s a costume designer, he’s a DJ – have tasted sweet sartorial success without even trying.
Your look
Unique and a form of self expression verging on art dressing.
Your go-to fashion haunt?
Mariot: None in particular in Adelaide. I love going to recycling shops and seeing what I find. Or what finds me.
Driller: I used to love going to recycling shops and seeing what I can find but it’s one of Mariot’s secret powers, so why compete? She finds me the craziest stuff. She knows me too well.
Who does your do?
Thirteen Hair. Lucy and Kieran
Beauty fix? Get your groom on?
At home in our bathtub with a bottle of French
What makes someone stylish?
Mariot: Individuality and a sense of fun.
Driller: When I can’t help myself and blurt out a compliment, often to a complete stranger.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Mariot: Driller Jet Armstrong
Driller: Mariot Kerr
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