Elegant restraint

Carmel Pritchard. Photo / Babiche Martens

Carmel Pritchard is the design assistant at Lonely Hearts, a role that she has held since 2007 after graduating from AUT's fashion school. Her role at the label involves assisting with various stages of design, including helping to produce the new Lonely Lingerie range - which is set to be available online soon. Pritchard's own style reflects that of the Lonely Hearts aesthetic - casual and quirky with darker undertones - and she counts Chloe Sevigny and Debbie Harry circa 1970s and 1980s as style icons.

"Debbie Harry had that boyish cool thing going on in a sexy girlie kind of way. I also love Chloe Sevigny because she has an understated, elegant way of dressing which always seems so effortless and relaxed.

"When it comes to personal style, restraint is a real talent I admire."

Who are your favourite designers?

I love Balenciaga because Nicolas Ghesquiere designs ranges in a way I wish I could. Bernard Wilhelm always amazes me with his unusually beautiful creations and Christopher Kane does incredible dresses and has a refreshing vision with texture, colour and prints. From New Zealand I really admire the aesthetic and clever design of Nom.D, Jaeha and Jimmy D. Most recently I am loving Pamela Love's jewellery. Her latest collaboration is inspired by the Where the Wild Things Are film and is a really cute, wearable interpretation. I get so excited when designers take the most unusual concepts and transform them into beautiful pieces - done well, it's something you just can't fake.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

Chloe Sevigny Buckle Boots by Opening Ceremony.

What item of clothing (or accessory) do you want to buy right now?

I'm obsessed with getting a pair of the Chanel half-tint sunglasses for summer. They are several seasons old now so my only hope is eBay... sigh.

How would you describe your style?

I would like to say balanced. I have to admit I'm probably more masculine in style, but I am extremely "girlie" in many ways also. Most importantly I try to keep it comfortable and my own.

How would your friends describe your style?

I actually asked my friends what they thought and one said I was always on point and uncomplicated. But of course they would, so if they were being honest I think they would say I wore too much black.

Where do you find inspiration?

Definitely film. I'm a visual person so film works well for me. I also get really inspired with history, tradition, and religion. Having said that, inspiration has been known to find me anywhere!

Who does the best shoes?

I'm a total shoe girl and I get obsessions with many shoe designers. I'm not usually an Alexander McQueen fan, but the SS10 shoes are seriously incredible - it's like they have a life of their own!

What's the one thing you think everyone should have in their wardrobe?

A leather jacket, old sneakers, a pair of KILLER heels and Lonely Hearts... that's four things!

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have ever made?

A perm - enough said.