Tentside chat with: Kelly Swanson-Roe

Kelly Swanson-Roe and partner John Aiken at the Workshop and Helen Cherry show. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Which shows have you been to so far?

So far I've been to Annah Stretton, which was great…Trelise (Cooper) last night was amazing - you just can't lose going to her show. IPG last night was fabulous. There was just a beautiful theme running through it, there was great hair (braided hairpieces) and it was in a great location (Victoria Park Market).

Which shows are you looking forward to seeing over the rest of the week?

We're (Kelly and her partner, psychologist John Aiken) going to Workshop now, Little Brother afterwards - for John - and then to NOM*D later tonight which we're really looking forward to.

Who are your favourite New Zealand designers?

My favourite designer - Sabine - isn't actually showing at Fashion Week. It's a shame she's not showing, I love Sabine. I also really love IPG…I think Turet Knuefermann is extremely clever. And she has these great boots from Brazil in her store. 

(John pipes in): I love Little Brother and Crane Brothers. Murray Crane is a magician.

Who or what are your style inspirations?

I come up with my own stuff mostly. I like to take a bit of the old and put it with new - mixing and matching really.  When I get bored, I'll rifle through my wardrobe with friends and sometimes digging something up can help to inspire me.

What are you wearing today?

Skinny leg blue jeans, (tucked into) black boots - both from Melbourne. My top (sheer ivory blouse) is from a little boutique in Oxford, Sydney. My necklace is Mimco, this is a Pearl belt and I'm carrying with me a Sabine (rich forest green velvet) jacket.  John's parents live in Melbourne so we go over there a bit.

What's on your shopping list for summer?

I'll be looking for some pretty sandals - I'm after some flat strappy ones. Also just some pretty, girly, chic prints.

What music are you listening to at the moment?

I've been listening to James Blunt today…I think he's fantastic, he's cool. I was quite inspired after seeing him in concert (last month).