‘I have an entirely separate room for sneakers': Inside Lorna Jane’s huge wardrobe

Lorna Jane has revealed the secret room in her wardrobe dedicated to her most prized possessions.

INSIDE MY WARDROBE

Lorna Jane Clarkson

Founder of Lorna Jane

Anyone who has a room dedicated to their activewear is my kind of girl.

With a penchant for Australian labels, men’s tailoring and “Gucci everything”, Lorna’s closet is this fashion editor’s dream – where anything from leggings and an epic sneaker collection through to sentimental family gowns and oversized jackets combine to create fashion magic. Just don’t go looking for hair inspiration – she admits to some interesting faux pas!

How would you describe your personal style?

Everyday weekend – think sporty and oversized.

Lorna Jane.

Who are your style icons?

I don’t have any specific style icons, but I do admire people who can take inspiration from a fashion trend and make it their own.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?

A black evening dress that Mum designed and had made in the 1960s (pictured below). I borrowed it to wear to my very first Fashion Awards in 1997 and when I won Mum gave it to me to celebrate. I still wear it and get compliments every time.

What are your favourite brands?

Lorna Jane of course. But I’m also a fan of Australian brands like Spell, Mossman, Masini Sleepwear, Oroton and Aje.

Have you ever made a style faux pas?

So many.

But I think the biggest ones have been with my hair. Once I dyed my hair Belinda Carlisle RED (what was I thinking?!), another time I cut myself a 2cm fringe (on purpose!), and the most cringe-worthy of all was when I actually paid to have my hair cut short on one side and bobbed on the other, which, let’s face it, is not a good look for anyone!

Lorna Jane in her mum’s dress.

What is the most surprising thing about your wardrobe?

Maybe not surprising, but I have an entirely separate room for my activewear and sneakers!

What’s the most you have ever spent on an outfit?

I can’t recall exactly the total spend, but I was invited (last minute) to the G-Day USA Dinner in Hollywood and had to pull together a full glamour look in 48 hours with a stylist, hair and make-up plus a tux for my husband Bill. It was one of the most expensive nights of our lives … but worth it!

Top three wardrobe must-haves?

For me it will always be a great pair of black leggings and a good sports bra, but I’m also a huge fan of men’s style suiting and can’t go past an oversized jacket and matching pants.

What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe and why?

It might sound a little cliched, but I’d have to say my wedding dress. I’ve been married for 30 years, but I pulled it out recently for an exhibition at the Queensland Museum and it still gives me goosebumps when I put it on.

Lorna Jane in her wedding dress.

What would you buy if money was no object?

Gucci everything!

Heels or sneakers?

Sneakers every time!

Is there anything in your wardrobe you’ve regretted throwing out?

My original Lorna Jane pieces from the ’90s.

Nourish: The Fit Woman’s Cookbook by Lorna Jane Clarkson, $45, out Tuesday in Lorna Jane stores and from lornajane.com.au

Originally published as ‘I have an entirely separate room for sneakers': Inside Lorna Jane’s huge wardrobe