This was published 6 months ago
‘I love feeling comfortable’: What you’ll never see this ballerina wearing
By Georgie Gordon
Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, ballet dancer Benedicte Bemet.
“I get decision fatigue when dressing, so I’ve ended up with a capsule wardrobe of clothes that are easy to throw on but look put-together.” Credit: Scott McNaughton
How would you describe your style? I love feeling comfortable. I get decision fatigue when dressing, so I’ve ended up with a capsule wardrobe of clothes that are easy to throw on but look put-together.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A grey mohair jumper that was my mum’s – warm, cosy and perfect for Melbourne. It’s at least 20 years old.
And the most recent addition? A pair of Dickies jorts.
What’s your favourite fashion era? The 1990s and early 2000s. I love all the singlets, cargo pants and glittery things. It was fun but casual. The eras in which women wore tight skirts and formal wear are my worst nightmare because I have to wear tight clothes for work.
Who are your favourite designers? Venroy, Bassike, American Vintage for every day and Silk Laundry for something dressier.
What’s your fragrance of choice? Jo Malone “Peony & Blush Suede”.
What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? Uniqlo low-rise, wide-leg jeans, a Brandy Melville singlet and a chunky knit.
Any go-to jewellery? The Lucy Folk gold hoop earrings my partner bought for me, a Sarah & Sebastian ring and a Lucy Folk ring my friends and family gave me for my 30th. I also always wear the gold bar necklace the Australian Ballet gave me after 10 years of service. They all hold sentimental value and remind me of certain times in my life.
What would you wear … on a first date? Something that makes me feel cute, like a dress with brogues and sparkly ankle socks … on a plane? Tracksuit pants, singlet, hoodie and compression socks - preventing swelling is so important for us … on the red carpet? Something beautiful and interesting by Prada.
Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? When I was four, I had the cutest pair of OshKosh B’gosh overalls. And I loved a pair of shorts my mum made from hibiscus-flower fabric. I wasn’t particularly pink-obsessed outside my ballet uniform; I had a younger brother and we were very much into climbing trees and playing in the sandpit.
What was your first fashion moment? I remember being excited to buy an outfit for the school disco when I was in year 3. I felt so cool in that little back miniskirt, a white top with a little flower on it, and black boots.
And your worst fashion mistake? As a teenager, I thought it was cool to wear tracksuit pants rolled up to under the knee, like a tracksuit capri pant. I don’t know what I was thinking.
This variation on Adidas’ classic “Gazelle” trainer is near the top of Benedicte Bemet’s shopping list.
What’s on your wish list? Deiji Studios “Everyday Check” tailored pants, bottle-green Adidas “Gazelles” with pink stripes, and I’d love to find a vintage leather bomber jacket.
Is there anything you would never wear? Skinny jeans. And gladiator sandals.
Is there a current trend you like? I’m loving all the cherry-red accessories like little handbags and headbands.
What shoes do you wear most often? My black Adidas “Gazelles”, Blundstone boots and Birkenstock “Bostons” get a lot of wear.
Who’s your favourite fashion icon? The dancers of the Australian Ballet are my fashion icons. So many of my friends have such great style and a unique way of expressing who they are. If I’m ever in a fashion rut, I just look around me.
What do you wear on a typical working day? A Yumiko leotard or Lululemon crop top with baggy Nike pants.
And your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’m currently in Sydney, so I’ll be at the beach in my Fella bikini and a linen shirt and pant set, plus my Reality Eyewear sunnies and a good book.
Benedicte Benet performs in the Australian Ballet’s Études/Circle Electric at the Sydney Opera House, May 3-18.
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