The shoes Rebecca Harding has worn to death – and what she’ll buy next

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

Rebecca Harding has a particular affinity for New York-based label Khaite.Credit: Liz Sunshine

How would you describe your style? It’s mood-dependent, but always on the classic side. Comfort comes into play and there’s always a bit of whimsy mixed in, whether it’s a quirky pair of sunglasses or something unexpected.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? It’s either my grandmother’s suede trench coat or a brown, orange and green floral vintage gown from the 1950s that I sourced in Los Angeles a few years ago to wear to a wedding in Italy.

And the most recent addition? I bought black Alaia “Infradito” thong stilettos after I saw [Vogue Australia editor-in-chief] Christine Centenera wearing them at Paris Fashion Week.

What would you wear … on a first date? Killer jeans with a white tank and a little heel … on a plane? Black wide-leg pants with a T-shirt, coat, huge cashmere scarf and slides – you can’t be dealing with laces at 40,000 feet … on the red carpet? I love how we’re bringing back archival and vintage pieces. If I could wear any look, it would be the gorgeous pastel-rainbow Halston dress Lauren Hutton wore to the Oscars in 1975.

What’s your favourite fashion era? The late ’60s for the shift dresses, miniskirts, pill box hats and bright colours.

Who’s your favourite designer? I wear Khaite a lot. The pieces are so well made and timeless, but with that little point of difference.

What’s your fragrance of choice? Maison Crivelli Tubereuse Astrale.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? Khaite “Danielle” jeans – I have them in every colour – white Uniqlo T-shirts and brown patent leather loafers from The Row.

Any go-to jewellery? I’ve never been a huge jewellery person, but my engagement ring is a staple. It’s an emerald cut diamond set in platinum that Andy [Lee, her fiance] designed. I also wear a Jaeger-LeCoultre “Reverso” watch and an Oura smart ring.

Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? When I was four, I was obsessed with a little navy-blue check dress with red hearts on the skirt and puff sleeves.

What was your first fashion moment? Playing dress-ups in my grandma’s wardrobe as a child. She travelled a lot and collected pieces from all over the world. My sister and I would play around with the silk headscarves, furs, Italian leather – it was a treasure trove.

And your worst fashion mistake? A few years ago, I wore a pair of Christian Louboutin “So Kate” stilettos for a full-day event and lost feeling in my foot for about a month afterwards. I haven’t worn them since. I tried to resell them, but I think everyone’s got the memo.

What shoes do you wear most often? A pair of Hermes “Chypre” shearling slides that have been worn to death. I can’t repurchase them because they’re always sold out.

These Dries Van Noten sneakers are on Harding’s wish list.

What’s on your wish list? Dries Van Noten ’70s-style suede sneakers.

Is there something you would never wear? Never say never. I would’ve said skinny jeans, but they’re making a comeback. I love the look of them with a tall, flat riding boot – I just haven’t found the right pair yet.

Is there a current trend you like? I’m loving that boho is back – the paisley prints and floaty dresses. Chloe’s winter 2025 show was so beautiful, and we haven’t really played in that sort of style for a few years.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? I’m loving Daisy Edgar-Jones’ vibe. In fact, I was almost convinced to cut a fringe.

What do you wear on a typical working day? If I’m in the office it’ll be jeans, oversized white shirt with a fun lacy bra underneath and “Tabi” ballet flats.

Harding is considering a Daisy Edgar-Jones-style fringe.Credit: Getty Images

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’ll be in a Skims tracksuit, walking our dog Henrietta and going for breakfast with Andy.

Rebecca Harding is co-founder of razor and body-care brand Lui.

Get the best of Sunday Life magazine delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning. Sign up here for our free newsletter.