How model Georgina Burke builds a chic, sustainable wardrobe

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, model Georgina Burke.

“Everything I buy has longevity. I have clothes mended so they last forever or re-tailored if I change size.”Credit: Lucas Dawson

How would you describe your style? Easy, effortless and chic.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? It’s either a pair of R.M. Williams boots that I used to horse-ride in and still wear – those things live forever – or a black Chanel coat from the ’90s that I bought in a vintage market in Manhattan’s Chelsea 13 years ago. [Burke lives in New York].

And the most recent addition? A chic Khaite purse. It’s a black leather shoulder bag that turns into a clutch.

What would you wear …
… on a first date? A silk button down, jeans, boots and maybe a lacy bra.
… on a plane? I dress up. You’ll never see me in leggings or athleisure wear; that’s for the gym. I’ll wear wide-leg trousers, a nice sweater, a blazer and compression socks no matter what, even if it’s a one-hour flight.
… on the red carpet? A suit and a heel – not too high, I’m six foot one – to make me stand up tall and proud.

Georgina Burke loves Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s cool, elegant style.Credit: Getty Images

What’s your favourite fashion era? Any time that’s pre-fast fashion. Everything I buy has longevity. I have clothes mended so they last forever or re-tailored if I change size. I don’t buy trendy items.

Who are your favourite designers? I like the Celine by Phoebe Philo era; I can’t wait to see what she does with her own label. Alexander McQueen and Saint Laurent are so elegant, their aesthetic is beyond. Carla Zampatti because it has always catered to a woman my size. I also wear a lot of Zimmermann, Commonry, Country Road and P.E Nation.

What’s your fragrance of choice? “Oud Immortel” by Byredo.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? A white button-down shirt, a black blazer and wide-leg trousers.

Burke says she not a “jewellery person” but finds herself craving this Tiffany “Lock” bracelet.

Any go-to jewellery? A Rolex and a gold Cartier “Love” ring.

Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? I was a women’s size 14 to 16 as an adolescent. There were no kids’ clothing or swimwear in my size so I would wear my dad’s boardshorts to the beach with a big T-shirt. Because I was so big for my age, we would get my equestrian clothing custom-made, and it was that perfectly tailored riding gear that got me interested in fashion early on. There’s something beautiful about knowing that if you don’t fit fashion, it can be made for you.

What was your first fashion moment? Two years ago, Ralph Lauren custom-made a stunning, black, floor-skimming gown for me for the Sports Illustrated red carpet. I was so shocked they wanted to do that for me.

And your worst fashion mistake? A pair of ugly pink corduroy pants I was obsessed with as a kid. Everything I wore growing up was pink.

What’s on your wish list? I’m going into winter over here, so I’m looking at Staud and Khaite knee-high boots.

Is there something you would never wear? Miniskirts. They’re for kids.

Is there a current trend you like? I’ve never been a jewellery person but I’m seeing everyone with the Tiffany “Lock” bracelets and one is now on my wish list.

What shoes do you wear most often? Nike “Panda” sneakers.

What do you sleep in? Victoria’s Secret silk pyjamas.

Who is your favourite fashion icon? Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is cool, elegant and well put-together. For the races coming up, I’m looking to Lillian Frank’s style for inspiration; she always had the most elaborate hats.

What do you wear on a typical working day? My essential three: a white button-down with wide-leg trousers and a blazer.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? Baggy pants and a tee. I’ll usually be strolling the city and having brunch with my boyfriend and dog.

Georgina Burke is a Victorian Racing Club Melbourne Cup Carnival Ambassador for 2023.

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