‘Classic and functional:’ Alison Roman’s wardrobe essentials

What’s your fragrance of choice? 11 11 by Lake & Skye. It has a less aggressive palo santo vibe.

Do you have a favourite fashion icon? Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy always looked amazing. She’s an excellent example of simplicity done elegantly.

Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? I remember a denim jacket that I left in a store when I took it off to try something else on. It still haunts me.

What was your first fashion moment? I remember my first job interview in an office after I’d only worked in kitchens. I didn’t know how to dress, I didn’t have any money or guidance; it was before the internet. I wore a bright purple silk top that I got in a thrift store, a black pencil skirt and black heels. It was horrific.

And your worst fashion mistake? I’ve made a million. I’m not that fashionable. I feel like I am always breaking a rule, like can you do black and navy? But the people I admire don’t really follow rules, so I try to embrace that. Maybe I’ll come into my fashion era later in life. I’m so utility focused and I struggle to take chances, but it’s something that I aspire to.

What’s at the top of your wish list? I’m in the market for a shoe that I can wear as we transition out of winter that’s not a boot, loafer or sneaker. There’s got to be something that’s a level above casual that I can walk all day in and look cute.

Is there anything you would never wear? A Batsheva dress. I struggle with anything with ruffles, frills or an egregious feminine pattern.

Is there a current trend you like? I’m glad we’ve stopped wearing tiny sunglasses, I hated those. I’m loving the body positivity, like women of all shapes and sizes wearing bodycon.

What shoes do you wear most often? A.P.C. boots in winter, Marni sandals in summer and a pair of vintage Céline heels I found in Paris – they’re the perfect shoe.

What do you wear on a typical working day? The Row high-waisted trousers and a nice tee.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? Levi’s jeans with a tank and striped, button-down shirt.

Sweet Enough (Hardie Grant) by Alison Roman is out now.

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