Signature style: Sophie Carew

Sophie Carew. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Sophie Carew has been Tessuti's store manager for six months. Before that, she did a stint at Workshop in Vulcan Lane.

Who are your favourite fashion designers?

Locally, I'd have to say Helen Cherry, Karen Walker and Zambesi. Chloe and Marc Jacobs are my favourite designers overseas.

What do you wear to work?

Anything comfortable, really. I have a good collection of jeans, which I usually pair with a pretty top. I prefer not to wear heels in the store because I'd probably knock over a Christian Tortu vase, knowing me.

What's your favourite accessory of the moment?

A beautiful pair of Les Nereides earrings from Paris from Jude, who owns Tessuti. And my green suede bag from Urban Outfitters in Los Angeles.

What are the staple pieces for a good wardrobe?

I like having basic items that are versatile and won't date. My essentials would have to be jeans, black leather boots, a classic tailored jacket and a few beautiful tops that I can wear to work or out at night.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

A gorgeous black silk top, See by Chloe, from Workshop. I fell in love with it and had to have it.

Any fashion disasters?

I have a really bad habit of shrinking clothes by putting them in the dryer. My pink Workshop sweater is now owned by a 4-year-old.

Favourite hotels?

Unfortunately, I haven't stayed in that many hotels yet but I really love The Standard Hotel on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles. It's very cool and was owned by the guy who also had Studio 54.

What's your idea of relaxation?

I love putting on my Holistic Silk slippers after I get home from work and relaxing with a good book, a cup of tea and some chocolate.

What's your biggest indulgence?

If I get the chance I love going to Sarah Priddy Nails in Newmarket to get a manicure.

What's your beauty routine?

I use Cetaphil cleanser, which is fantastic. It's cheap and gentle on your skin. I absolutely love the whole L'Occitane sweet almond range. I also use Stila foundation, which I use sparingly as it's not available here.

What can't you live without?

My family and my boyfriend, Jeremy, and maybe Cadbury's Caramello chocolate. 

What was the last book you read?

Digital Fortress by Dan Brown. I really enjoyed The Da Vinci Code so I thought I'd read his latest book.

Who cuts your hair?

The wonderful Charlotte at Stephen Marr in Ponsonby.

What item of make-up would you be lost without?

Definitely mascara. I'm not fussy about what brand I use, as long as it's black.