The wardrobe item this TV host swears by for plane travel

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, TV host Julia Morris.

Julia Morris’ favourite fashion era is the 1940s, especially for the pencil skirts and coats.

How would you describe your style? My day-to-day style is working mum: a comfy pair of trousers, a singlet and cardi, and I’m ready to go. But I’m just as comfortable in a high-end frock.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A black Chanel cardigan I bought in 1986. It’s beautiful but hardly worn; it’s that weird thing where it was too good to wear, and it’s now probably turning to dust.

And the most recent addition? A baby blue, vegan leather skirt from Saba.

What would you wear … on a first date? It’s never going to happen, so I can say with absolute conviction, pyjamas … on a plane? Because you have to be aware of maybe jumping into a blown-up slide, a trouser is always best, preferably with an elasticised waist for comfort. I’m a fan of the matching tracksuit … on the red carpet? Something by Melbourne designer Alin Le’Kal – with an Adidas sneaker.

What’s your favourite fashion era? I love the 1940s for the shapes, cuts, pencil skirts and coats.

Do you have a favourite designer? No, I mix and match. I’ll wear pieces by COS, Witchery and Gucci. I don’t go for one full look.

What’s your fragrance of choice? I’ve worn Paloma Picasso since I was in high school. I discovered it in one of those packets of tiny perfumes you’d be excited to get when you went overseas. I’ve tried to step away from it over the years; I took a small vacation to Eternity by Calvin Klein, but I always return to the musky gem.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? A decent bra, large underpants and a flat shoe.

Any go-to jewellery? Two exquisite rings by Sydney jeweller Victoria Buckley.

Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? A pair of gauchos [ultra wide-legged pants] when I was about 12. I don’t think they’ve made a comeback, the mighty gaucho. Looking back, we should have steered well clear.

What was your first fashion moment? My mother always had exquisite taste. I remember when I was a child she would save up and maybe once a year buy a pair of Charles Jourdan shoes. I learnt that if you’ve got one good thing, one treat, you can build around that.

And your worst fashion mistake? There’s a photo of me at Club Med in 1988 in a straw hat. I have no business in a hat, plus I had on shoulder pads that looked like I might have been playing in an American football team. At the time they didn’t feel like mistakes but looking back you laugh [and think], “Why did I go out the door?”

Julia Morris has an Adidas sneaker to match any outfit.

What’s on your wish list? I have one frock from The Vampire’s Wife and I’d love another. I also dream about adding a corseted Vivienne Westwood gown to my collection. I have an enviable wardrobe from my 75 years in the business! When I moved into my house, it had a weird sauna off the bathroom. I couldn’t deal with anyone else’s sweat, so I made it into my gown cellar.

What shoes do you wear most often? I’ve got a substantial collection of Adidas trainers in various colours. It doesn’t matter what outfit comes my way, I have a trainer to go with it.

Is there something you’d never wear? I haven’t completely turned my back on denim, but I am rarely in jeans.

Is there a current trend you like? Big sleeve, small waist.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? I am a huge Victoria Beckham fan. When you have a brain and mouth like mine, dressing with a more conservative edge is helpful. It’s a gentle stir; you look quite
sensible, but you’ve got the mouth of a wharf worker.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’m very much enjoying a Kristian Williams silk pyjama-style set. It looks like you’ve made a bigger effort than you have.

Julia Morris is co-host of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here on Channel 10 and 10Play.

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