My wardrobe -Try looking on black side

Deb Laraman is group leader for creative design at Bay Of Plenty Polytechnic.

Q: What's your favourite piece in your wardrobe and why?
A: It changes all the time, but it is usually something I have just made.
Q: How many pairs of shoes do you have?
A: I recently culled my shoes, so I have a lot less than I did. I am currently deciding on the next purchases that I need for the new winter season.
I only keep and or buy shoes if they look great, are comfortable and easy to walk in, and go with a variety of looks. I tend to spend more on winter shoes and boots, and plan the items I buy. In summer I buy spontaneously, as I usually buy cheaper items that are more casual, but unfortunately don't always last very long.
Q: What are your wardrobe basics?
A: Black, black and black ... oh, and light black! I use a lot of layering pieces that are versatile and enable me to adapt a look easily.
I have a few good pieces in other colours, but I prefer muted shades. Good accessories are an easy and economical way to individualise your look, and I make many of these items myself, hence I can create an unique look on the base garments.
I don't adhere to the statements from TV stylists telling us to get into colour. If it suits you and you feel great in it, then wear it. But if you love black, don't feel pressure to add colour if it doesn't fit with your personal style.
My fashion students have just done some observational research around Tauranga, and they found that 80 per cent of the women they observed wore at least one item of black clothing.
Q: What do you wear to work?
A: It depends on the day, but my look is fairly understated. I go for things that don't stand out too much, but have clever details and a good cut. I need to be comfortable and look up-to-date, but I purchase or make items  with a view to them lasting a few seasons.
Q: What's your weekend "uniform"?
A: Comfortable pants and tops
Q: What's your oldest piece of clothing?
A: The outfit I wore for my 21st birthday - and that's going back a long time. Obviously I don't wear it, so it lives in the secondary wardrobe (in my work room) - the place where the items go that I don't wear, but don't want to part with.
Q: What's the latest piece you've bought?
A: I bought a bold, printed dress, with "punk" undertones, at Urban Vogue in Bethlehem. It was the only one on the rack and on sale, so I altered it to fit me. I wear it on days I don't mind standing out.
Q: What accessories do you use?
A: I like unique statement pieces such as capes, neckpieces and wraps for winter, which I make myself so I know there will not be another like it. I prefer a minimal look with jewellery, but usually wear one necklace.
Q: Which piece of clothing could you not do without?
A: A plain black long-sleeved top, and slim line black pants. They are staples that can be dressed up or down.
Q: What's the most you've spent on an item of clothing?
A: That's difficult, because I won't buy over a certain price point, as I would just make something myself.