‘Polished and minimalist’: How Nadia Bartel nails her signature style

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, fashion designer Nadia Bartel.

“I don’t like loungewear any more because I wore so much of it through COVID lockdowns.”

How would you describe your style? Polished and minimalist. I look to classic pieces for longevity in my wardrobe. I love simple silhouettes and I mostly wear earthy tones and black and white, but love a pop of colour for a night out.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? My nonna’s fur jacket, which I’m quite sentimental about. I’ve also held on to a Chanel “Boy” bag that I wouldn’t wear now, but it was a big deal when I bought it 20 years ago.

And the most recent addition? A beautiful black clutch with a gold buckle from Rylan.

What are three essential items in your wardrobe? My Henne “Valentina” jeans – they’re high-waisted with a straight leg, not too tight and so versatile. Also, camel-coloured tailored trousers by Khaite and a white tank for wearing under coats, blazers or a blue shirt.

Nadia Bartel likes statement earrings such as these hoops by Heaven Mayhem.

What would you wear … on a first date? A ribbed long-sleeve top with high-waisted jeans, a belt and Saint Laurent flats … on a plane? Henne “Xanthe” pants and bomber jacket with a tank and ASICS sneakers … on the red carpet? A simple silhouette in white by Christopher Esber or J’Aton with Louboutin heels.

What’s your favourite fashion era? Fashion in the ’90s was effortless, minimal and laid-back. I love the oversized tailoring and the high-waisted denim with baby tees.

Who’s your favourite designer? Saint Laurent is just stunning. I love how a lot of the designs have a masculine feel.

Who is your favourite fashion icon? Diana Ross is amazing. I love her 1970s and ’80s looks. She was a style chameleon. I look to her for inspiration for the red carpet.

What’s your fragrance of choice? Le Labo “Lys 41”.

Any go-to jewellery? I’ve just invested in an Oura ring. I also wear a Cartier ring and a two-tone Rolex watch. Other than that, I might wear some statement earrings by Anna Rossi or Heaven Mayhem – a jewellery label by an Aussie girl in Los Angeles.

Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? I remember a traditional pink cord dress that I loved. I was into getting dressed on my own from a very young age. I didn’t like anyone telling me what to wear and always made sure my shoes matched my dress.

This compact clutch from Rylan is the newest addition to Bartel’s wardrobe.

What was your first fashion moment? It would have to be when I wore a green corset dress to the 2011 Brownlow Medal awards. I designed the dress with Julie Simonelli – it was quite out there and I was bit out of my comfort zone. I wasn’t sure if everyone was going to like it, but they did. I felt empowered. For the first time I thought, “Maybe I do have an idea of what people might like to wear.”

And your worst fashion mistake? Not that long ago I was into really ripped denim, jeans with big holes everywhere. Not a good look. I held on to that trend for too long!

What’s on your fashion wish list? If money were no object, it would be The Row’s “Soft Margaux 12” black leather tote.

Is there something you would never wear? Birkenstock clogs.

Is there a current fashion trend you like? I’m loving all the sheer panelling.

What shoes do you wear most often? ASICS “Gel-Kayano 14” sneakers.

What do you wear on a typical working day? I keep it simple in tailored pants with a T-shirt and blazer. Or denim with a Henne “Solene” fluffy cardigan and Coperni heeled boots.

What’s your favourite off-duty casual Sunday look? The weekends involve a lot of kids’ sport. I don’t like loungewear any more because I wore so much of it through COVID lockdowns, so it’s denim with a tee, sneakers and a big coat.

Henne is available from its Prahran boutique in Victoria and Paddington boutique in NSW.

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