Style council: Adelaide’s nattiest dressers share their sartorial secrets — part two
People say you either have style or you haven’t. But whatever way you look at it, these 25 Adelaideans have got it in the bag.
Lifestyle
Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Whether it’s the polished, poised perfection of retired leading model agent Tanya Powell and The Advertiser Foundation patron Angela Condous, or the quirky charm of Lionel, who gets his groove on in Rundle Mall, Adelaide has many stylish individuals.
In part two of our most stylish people coverage, we asked another 25 locals, who’ve got it in the bag, to reveal a little of how they dress to impress and tell us whose look has caught their eye.
JANET CELLIER
Sally Kolbig, who featured in part one of The Advertiser’s Style Council special, nominated this North Adelaide physiotherapist whom she described as “Adelaide’s very own Iris Apfel”.
Your look
Individual. I don’t follow trends. I might match something from 30 years ago with something I bought last week.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Matches Fashion online, Toscani in Noosa - they have lovely Italian clothes - and Cherri Bellini in Rundle Street.
Who does your do?
Janey at Gloss on Magill Road and Deb at Soho Haircutters in Tynte Street.
Beauty Fix?
I’ve been using Clarins for years.
What makes someone stylish?
When someone catches your eye and it’s their total look - that’s the thing. When you see someone who looks beautiful - irrespective of age, shape or size - who looks comfortable in themselves.
Who’s got it in the bag?
My sister, Judy Fargher. She is amazing.
DEB EDWARDS
This music publicist, who’s rubbed shoulders with the who’s who of Aussie music and international artists, knows how to rock boho style.
Your look
Rock Chick. Black and more black with a touch of denim or bold colour, always with boots. Then I flip to a bohemian hippy free flowing style with kaftans and fringes. Still with boots.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Anywhere and everywhere! I love picking up pieces from any store in Adelaide that stocks Brave+True and Talisman, and I have a wardrobe full of Wayne Cooper dresses from Myer. I buy at Sussan for petites because I’m a small shorty and I recently bought the most amazing red denim jacket from Alabaster in Tanunda.
Who does your hairdo?
Honestly, I do. I have a head of natural curls that, amazingly, pretty much does its own thing without much fuss. When I need a solid cut, big colour change or straighten, it’s Hair Artistique in North Adelaide.
Beauty fix?
Janesce for facials, but at home I love a pink or green clay mask, a great moisturiser and drinking a lot of the good old H2O.
What makes someone stylish?
Confidence in who they truly are. I know who I am, I dress accordingly. I think that’s why people often comment on my style.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Arts identity, DJ about town, the very fabulous Anne Wiberg. I recently joined the Music SA board as a director and Anne, as the long-time chair of Music SA, walks into a room and just wows every single time. Stylish, immaculate, confident. She wins.
EMMA HACK
This artist turned dog whisperer’s fabulously flamboyant fashion sense definitely deserves a shout out.
Your look
Prints and colour with large dogs as accessories.
Co-to fashion haunt?
Camilla and Gorman.
Who does your do?
Dare Hair
Beauty fix?
Medi Pedi
What makes someone stylish?
Confidence in themselves to be who they are.
Who’s got it in the bag?
I adore Peta-Anne Louth’s style. She’s always looking gorgeous in her quirky retro style and her hair is fabulous.
GRETA AND DINO LEOPARDI
One of Adelaide’s best-dressed couples, she’s the creator of GretaKate bridal couture and he’s and the state manager for Calibre menswear.
Your look
Greta: My style is easy elegance. My wardrobe needs to be practical to chase my one-year-old, Lenny, in, but also stylish to see clients.
Dino: My style is sport luxe/athleisure, or layers of black with a focus on tech fabrics, contemporary silhouette and subtle design detail. Anything that can be worn with designer trainers, fashion that functions. I am a dad nowadays so being able to get dressed in the dark with minimal effort for maximum return is key!
Go-to fashion haunt?
Greta: Viktoria Woods is my go-to label for its beautifully cut dressy and casual pieces all made in Australia.
Dino: Working for Calibre, I don’t often need to venture beyond my own stores, I am certainly happy to be practising what I preach. I do love Australian labels Bassike and Jac + Jack for weekend wear.
Who does your do?
Greta: SJ Establishment is my incredible hairdresser.
Dino: Gang is my go-to for hair.
Beauty Fix?
Greta: Mecca for anything beauty and Mt Lofty House for a tranquil facial.
What makes someone stylish?
Greta: Confidence and ease makes someone stylish.
Dino: Being able to interpret a trend for who you are and wearing it your way.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Our grandparents are the most stylish people we know. Grandma never leaves the house without a scarf, brooch and hat, even to the supermarket. She is not afraid to show off her eccentric flair. Pop was a bespoke tailor and was never seen out of his suit - even with nine kids.
SUE DILENA
Nominated by her daughter Lauren Dilena, this TAFE SA fashion lecturer knows how to walk the talk when it comes to style.
Your look
Modern classical with an edge, although it can vary depending on mood and occasion.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I like to shop around but many of my staple pieces are from David Jones, Scanlan and Theodore and Morrison.
Who does your do?
Timothy Alexander
Beauty fix?
Beth Jamieson and Visible Changes.
What makes someone stylish?
A stylish person wears their clothes with confidence, showcasing their best attributes and personality.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Lauren Dilena because she never gets it wrong.
REBECCA MORSE
No one could ever say stunning SAFM breakfast co-host Bec has a great head for radio. And the blonde beauty is also switched on when it comes to fashion.
Your look
Beachy casual most of the time but I love a good blazer and party dress when the occasion calls for it.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Saintgarde Store. It stocks some of my favourite brands like Acler, Jac and Mooki and Veja - plus they serve coffee and wine!
Who does your do?
Lisa at Elysian Salon
Beauty fix?
I get facials at The London Skin Clinic and Meg at the Shape Co does my brows. If I need hair and makeup for a night out I go to Hannah at TJ’s Style Bar.
What makes someone stylish?
Someone who always looks comfortable and confident is stylish. Those people who can make a chain store bargain look just as stylish and covetable as a luxury label.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Chris Kontos. He’s a loyal advocate for SA labels and was one of the visionaries behind the Adelaide Fashion Festival. Kontos is my go-to for styling advice for big events.
KATHRYN FORTH AND JULIA RITORTO
These designers have made a name for themselves with Acler, which is showing at the Melbourne Fashion Festival. But the two haven’t just built a fashion house, they’ve also got it going on when it comes to playing dress ups and are both deserving of the “most stylish” label.
Your look
Kathryn: I love a bit of volume in either a sleeve or in some draping but always paired back with tailoring eg. a suit pant or a blazer
Julia: Pretty relaxed these days, I love comfortable and effortless pieces, minimal fuss and everything worn with flats wherever possible.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Kathryn: Locally, of course, David Jones is the best place to go for everything under one roof. They stock both of our labels (Acler and Significant Other) nationally. We always like to pop in and see how our collections are looking presented beautifully in one area.
Julia: David Jones in Rundle Mall has such a strong offering of all my favourite brands – including ours.
Who does your hair?
Kathryn: Kelly Allison from K’s of New York is my hairdresser but also does the hair and makeup for our range book shoots. There aren’t many people who are talented enough to do both commercial and editorial hair and makeup. She also nails that effortless undone look which I love.
Julia: I have two loves when it comes to my hair, Kelly Allison from K’s of New York and Chelsea @hairbynewfang. They both nail the perfect bronde.
Beauty fix?
Kathryn: Temple Day Spa do the best facials and it’s such a relaxing, yet luxurious, setting.
Julia: The London Skin Clinic. It’s such a treat.
What makes someone stylish?
Kathryn: I think investing in a few gorgeous accessories like some fine jewellery and an embellished but understated belt is the best thing you can do. Even if you are dressed very simply, those finishing details will always make your look more elevated.
Julia: Knowing how to wear something in your own way - adding your own personal touch. Following trends too closely, or following a particular look from head to toe, will never translate as stylish.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Kathryn: Of course I will say Julia Ritorto, that’s a given! But, if I had to pick another, I would say that our resident artist and influencer, Mary Lawas, is always impeccably styled.
Julia: Can I say Kathryn Forth? If I had to think outside our own office, I’d say Georgia Hatzis. She now lives in Melbourne, but she’s still a home grown beauty who never puts a foot wrong.
HEATHER CROALL
The Fringe director sure cuts it when it comes to putting on a show of captivating colourful outfits which can’t help but take centre stage.
Your look
A clash of festival colour, glitter, sparkle and sequins with a boho twist.
Go-to fashion haunt
Miss Gladys Sym Choon. It’s my one-stop favourite shop for accessories, clothing and shoes.
Who does your do?
I go to Atilio at Clip Joint on Rundle Street and let him make all the decisions.
Beauty fix?
I like to play with my own make-up. I especially love to experiment with colours on my eyes. When I am lucky, my daughter or my EA will help me get ready – they know all the tricks.
What makes someone stylish?
Be what you wanna be! If someone is brave, goes with the flow, wears whatever makes them feel good - that for me is stylish! You can see that confidence in them and it gives them great style.
Who’s got it in the bag?
According to everyone who stops us in the street, it is my partner, Nick Phillips.
STEVE TILBROOK
This sharp-dressed town planner’s made his mark on the fashion map and Instagram where he’s known and liked as @stevetilley.
Your look
Modern unique suiting style with a flare for tailoring.
Go-to fashion haunt?
For bespoke it’s Tailors of Distinction, off the rack - Ted Baker.
Who does your do?
Kaz Hair at Brighton
What makes someone stylish?
Being confident in their own uniqueness and not giving a damn what others think.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Lauren Dilena.
MIMI-JANE TAEUBER
Your just have to take your hat off to the creator of Mimi-Jane Millinery, who is as stylish as her bespoke creations.
Your look
I would say my style is Victorian classic with a contemporary edge. Long pleated skirts, ruffled blouses with big sleeves, structured jackets, ankle boots and black nails are my go-to. I always feel comfortable in these silhouettes. I am most comfortable in black but I do make an effort to incorporate some colour from time to time!
Go-to fashion haunt?
David Jones
Who does your do?
I am addicted to my weekly blow dries at Hair Machine!
Beauty fix?
Medicine of Cosmetics is absolutely the best place in Adelaide for facials and skin treatments.
What makes someone stylish?
Authenticity. Not being afraid to be express creativity through fashion.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Sunday Mail fashion editor Mirella Romano. I absolutely love Mirella’s sense of style and her ability to incorporate seasonal trends, while retaining an elegant European styling aesthetic
ROS ELLERY AND LOU HEWITSON
Hyde Park boutique Denim Iniquity’s dynamic mother and daughter duo have been in the rag trade for decades and always look a million bucks.
Your look
Ros: Relaxed
Lou: Fabrics are important to me... it can be classic or fun but MUST be good fabric!
Go-to fashion haunt?
Ros: Denim Iniquity
Lou: Denim Iniquity for its great selection. It’s an exclusive boutique stockist of Australian and international brands.
Who does your do?
Ros: K’s of New York, Parkside
Lou: The Edit and Fon are my go-tos. I’m terrible at planning, so it’s whoever I can get into at short notice.
Beauty fix?
Ros: Hidden Leaf
Lou: Mecca for products, Maggie at Hidden Leaf Beauty Salon, at Hyde Park, for their organic mani pedi.
What makes a person stylish?
Ros: Not taking yourself too seriously, have a bit of fun.
Lou: Confidence, own your look!
Who’s got it in the bag?
Ros: There are lots of stylish women in Adelaide. I’ve long believed we are one of the best dressed capitals in Australia.
Lou: My mum.
MAZ MIS
This photographic and interior stylist is in the picture when it comes to being on of Adelaide’s snappiest dressers.
Your look
I’m a vintage lover through and through. I love integrating key pieces with something modern - balancing a cool shape or pattern with something classic. I appreciate colour and experimenting with high-low fashion. For me there’s nothing better than teaming up a Max Mara coat with a white Kmart tee and an interesting printed vintage skirt. The ‘70s is definitely the era I connect with the most, both in fashion and interiors. It is so spirited and full of texture, and some of the prints made then just don’t exist anymore, so you’ll always find me hunting in thrift stores and vintage markets. My wardrobe is eclectic but also refined - lots of pattern!
Go-to fashion haunt?
Give me a vintage market any day! I also like buying key classics from most retailers for balance. As a stylist I’m always shopping, so I don’t have one in particular. I love to diversify and try new stores. Lately, and throughout 2020, I did a decent amount of shopping from online stores. It’s now a habit that will probably stay - although there’s nothing like touching textiles and trying things on for shape.
Beauty fix?
I have been investing in good skincare for as long as I can remember, and as I get older it’s mostly organic. Most facials are at home, but for make-up it’s always Mecca, the store I could spend hours in (and I do!)
What makes someone stylish?
Confidence and being true to yourself, not being a slave to trends and letting your personality shine. It really is about wearing whatever it is that makes a person feel good and when they feel good, they generally look amazing.
Who’s got it in the bag?
My closest friend, Lina Stefanopoulos, is a true style queen. She has the perfect knack of putting together an outfit that others wouldn’t dream about. I have known her for 24 years and she is the one person who no matter what, looks fabulous daily. Even when she’s in trackies, she has amazing handmade earrings on, or a fabulous scarf in her hair. She is Adelaide’s own Carrie Bradshaw.
CLAUDIA MITCHELL
Signed with Finesse Models Australia, this brunette beauty also works for Adelaide’s Kennedys Boutique where she’s in the business of making women with curves look and feel great.
Your look
Classic, with a splash of fun, glam pieces I pick up along the way. What I wear depends heavily on my mood!
Go-to fashion haunt?
My go-to fashion store is, of course, Kennedys Boutique, but I also love FAYT the Label and Decjuba.
Who does your do?
I like to keep my hair very natural and I love seeing Emma from ESK Hair for those regular freshen ups. I always feel like a whole new woman with fresh hair!
Beauty fix?
I do all my own skin care, so whenever I pop into Mecca I can’t deny picking up some Drunk Elephant and Origins skincare products!
What makes someone stylish?
I think being unafraid to experiment, taking things and making them your own is what makes someone stylish. Style is as much about your attitude as it is about the pieces you’re wearing.
Who’s got it in the bag?
That’s a tough one, we have a lot of stylish people in this city! I have to say I adore @theiconicblonde on Instagram. Not only is she a massive advocate for Adelaide, her style is the perfect example of having fun with what you love!
GENEVIEVE THESEIRA-HAESE AND MARTIN HAESE
The former Adelaide Mayor’s been one of the city’s best-dressed men since he founded retail fashion chain Youthworks back in the 1990s. And he’s definitely met his sartorial match in his wife, who knows that having true style is about so much more than the clothes you wear.
Your Look
Genevieve: I have lived in four continents ... so my style is “Eclectic EurAsia”.
Martin: Traditional with a modern twist.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Genevieve: My own wardrobe, op shops - I am the patron of MOSH Australia and The Magdalene Centre - and Rundle Mall.
Martin: Ted Baker and a mix of accessories picked up from travels.
Who does your do?
Genevieve: Parlour Hair and Sophie Trang.
Martin: Adnan on Kensington
Beauty fix?
Genevieve: Chanel at David Jones and Endota.
What makes someone stylish?
Genevieve: Having fun and a good strut!
Martin: Quiet confidence.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Genevieve: Melanie Flintoft and Emma Hack
Martin: Nick Phillips
SALLY PHILLIPS
One look at this designer in her own eponymous label and it’s easy to see why Adelaide’s best-dressed women covet her limited-edition effortlessly elegant pieces.
Your look
I really like to cultivate a well-thought-out wardrobe of smart separates and paired-back basic essentials. A contemporary mix of femininity, juxtaposed with strong structured silhouettes. Polished and edgy.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Net-a-porter, Mytheresa, Farfetch, Matches... All are the best one-stop shops for fabulous accessories and fashion.
Who does your do?
Kelly Allison from K’s of New York. She does all my fashion shoots - both hair and makeup - and does a great colour and cut.
Beauty fix?
I never have time for facials. I wish I had more time.
What makes someone stylish?
Nailing the art of a perfectly well-mixed wardrobe of beautifully cut separates worn with confidence and a nod to new trends, while retaining a fabulous base of cool classics. Style that is crafted to create a polished, edgy, modern look.
Who has it in the bag?
All of my lovely clients are super stylish and embrace their wardrobes with confidence and grace. If I have to say two in particular; Arabella Branson and Leanne Ahrens both have a real innate style. They are always pairing the perfect accessories with the perfect ensemble, while exuding a real grace and an endearing low-key attitude.
AVA ABIAD
The co-founder of The Consortium has a carefully curated chic look inherited from her style icon - her mum, Martine Barrie.
Your look
My mother Martine’s style is the epitome of elegance. I grew up watching her going to the grand old balls of Adelaide’s yesteryear and admiring how regal she looked as she’d slip into gowns. In today’s more casual society, she is still true to her feminine style and lives in A-line dresses. I was probably the only girl in reception at Walford who was forbidden to wear jelly sandals - she has always encouraged me to choose classic, quality pieces that suit my silhouette.
Go-to fashion haunt?
King William Road is our favourite destination for fashion. Mum and I both love a trip to Denim Iniquity for local and imported labels that add luxury to your look from basics to cocktail soirees.
Who does your do?
Massimo Tirimacco from Zohair is the creative genius keeping our tresses in top condition. When I enter his aesthetically astounding salon, I fully entrust my locks to his vision and styling skills. Each session with the award-winning colourist leaves me feeling empowered and even perhaps a little too confident!
Beauty fix?
Grooming is of the utmost importance to us, so it’s no surprise that we have a team of industry experts on our glam squad. Zivana – Beauty Therapist & Nail Technician is in charge of keeping our nails neat and nude with fortnightly shellac manicures. Zivana always aces our elegant and minimal polish preferences.
Nat from willow SKIN + BODY has transformed my skin with an in-salon and home care routine that keeps my complexion glowing and blemish-free. This provides the ultimate base for my makeup artist Nour Harb to create inspired beauty looks with her phenomenal technique.
What makes someone stylish?
Poise and confidence are what creates presence in any room. Having good style means curating your closet to accentuate your best assets and allowing your character to shine with your sartorial selections.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Having attended many a racing event together, my eye is always drawn to Lauren Dilena. The stylist is consistently elegant and original in her choices, maintaining her signature aesthetic and, most importantly, her infectious bubbly energy.
TRICIA HICKS
The beauty and brains behind Hair Artistique is responsible for keeping some of Adelaide’s best-tressed people’s hair in great shape - and she also cuts it when it comes to her smart dress sense.
Your look
Simply stated. Strong single colours or stripes, spots or checks for impact.
I love black and white, especially black. I’m also currently in love with Frankie shoes. I wear minimal jewellery - white gold or silver and it’s always hoop earrings. I have a collection of brooches from all parts of the world - they have unusual designs or significant meaning for me. I wear one every day.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I mainly shop at Country Road or Trenery, but also Gorman - I love the colour- and Veronika Maine for selected pieces because they have great fabrics. I also love Anthea Crawford for something special.
Who does your do?
Hair Artistique in the Next Gen lobby. We have the best stylists.
Beauty fix?
First Skin & Body in the Next Gen lobby. Quality products and well-trained staff.
What makes someone stylish?
Knowing what you really like and feel confident in. Confidence is the key, clothes express who you are. Keep up with fashion, but never just follow the crowd.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Paolo Sebastian’s Paul Vasileff. When he was in year 12, Paul designed and produced 12 couture dresses made from calico for a show I was also part of. He is so talented and such a pleasure to be around. Another is Maggie Beer. She knows what suits her. Everything, right down to her earrings, displays her warmth. She’s a great South Australian.
IDA SOPHIA
This incredible artist expresses her creativity through her inimitable avant-garde style.
Your look
Hi-low, with a vintage focus and hand sewing pieces I can’t find.
Go-to fashion haunt?
TheRealReal.com
Who does your do?
Lucia at Bellissimo Hair
Beauty fix?
M & Co Style Bar
What makes someone stylish?
Someone who has the courage to experiment. Who sees dressing as an artistic pursuit.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Style is a personal endeavour. I find Adelaideans to be incredibly unique in their style.
JULIA DOWLING
This mum-of-four who’s the director/owner of Duttons car dealership has style in overdrive.
Your look
I love casual, colourful clothes with a pop of something different. Ideally, I like mixing up vintage with seasonal trends. I prefer to wear clothes that work in with my lifestyle; nowadays, athleisure can take you from morning workouts to day/meetings.
Go-to fashion haunt?
I love Maple Trading and Wild Child Stylelab for athleisure. Denim Iniquity has a great cross section of local and international labels. Flannel has beautiful fabrics and designs. Scanlan Theodore and Zimmermann never disappoint.
Who does your do?
Boris The Cuttery at Norwood. Damien for cut, Denika for colour and Caitlin for styling. My go-to for great quick blow-dries is Jarrad at Barber Bar.
Beauty Fix?
For active facials my go-to is Proskin Clinic with Carolyn and for massage and nurturing facials it’s Beauty Secrets with Eleanor.
What makes someone stylish?
It’s owning your look and loving the body you’re in. It is not about the label or the price tag, but more about reflecting having fun, showing personality and flirting with an edge. Mixing it up and not being a slave to the latest, must-haves. I prefer enjoying clothing for its beautiful fabrics, designs and sustainability.
Who’s got it in the bag?
I admire the young girls creativity and edge: Ruby Stephens, Lulu Hardy and Sarah Fahlbusch-Moore. These girls have a natural flair and always look effortlessly cool.
OLIVER AND GEORGINA DUCKWORTH
This globetrotting power couple never put a foot wrong with their classic yet contemporary cool vibe.
Your look
Georgina: After four babies, I’m happy if I can just do up my jeans! But seriously, I’d say casual-meets-classic chic. My go-to colours are black, white and cream.
Oliver: Being colourblind means I’ve got to keep it simple, and hopefully with an element of classic.
Go-to fashion haunt?
Georgina: In Adelaide, it’s Denim Iniquity. During a recent trip to Port Lincoln, I found a diamond of a store called Call Me The Breeze. When we were living in New York I loved shopping at Acne, Jeffreys and, of course, Wardrobe.
Oliver: P Johnson Tailors - Sydney based but Adelaide grown!
Who does you do?
Georgina: Lucy Iasenzaniro at Bellissimo Hair.
Oliver: Lucy Iasenzaniro at Bellissimo Hair.
Beauty fix?
Georgina: The London Skin Clinic. Dr Skin is the master.
Where do you get your groom on?
Oliver: Whatever I can pinch from Georgie’s side of the bathroom!
What makes someone stylish?
Georgina: When someone’s clothes match their personality.
Oliver: Confidence. Picking the pieces that make that person feel true to themselves.
Who’s got it in the bag?
Georgina: My mum, Karin Dunsford.
Oliver: My wife, Georgie
Adelaide identities reveal plan for luxury city housing block
Two well-known Adelaide business partners are planning luxury living near one of the city’s most popular foodie strips.
Exposed: South Australia’s worst domestic violence offenders
Background checks on controlling husbands and violent partners are revealing hundreds of men leaving a trail of abuse victims in their wake. See the alarming figures.