For Georgia Faull, elegance, quality and endurance are key factors in both business and personal life.
Most of us with even a passing interest in fashion will know the story of Nature Baby, and have probably shopped at their Grey Lynn store. The boutique childrenswear brand was started in 1999 by Georgia Faull and her husband Jacob, with the aim of providing quality, natural products for
babies - and has now expanded with a new store at The Department Store in Takapuna, Auckland.
Faull's approach to her own wardrobe is similar to that of her Nature Baby brand - good fabrics, long lasting and slightly classic. She tells us more about her style.
Best sartorial advice you ever had?
Always look at the details. Buttons, fabrics used, stitching; they provide the hallmark of quality, craftsmanship and identity.
Best sartorial advice to pass down to your own daughter/son?
Be wary of "disposable" fashion - think about what you put on your body. How did it get made? How long will it last?
Most cherished item?
My three children were each wrapped in a merino baby shawl beautifully crocheted by their nana. Each child became very attached to their shawl to the point where each shawl is unfortunately now a shred of its original self. However, I cherish these much-loved shawls as a reminder of my children's "babyhood".
Who are your favourite designers or labels?
I am such a big fan of all our local designers that it's really difficult to single out a few, but I love wearing Beth Ellery, Miss Crabb, Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester and Helen Cherry. I am attracted to the high level of quality and craft that is inherent in pieces created by these designers.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A beautiful dress by Beth Ellery.
What do you want to buy next?
I don't have any plans for what I want to buy next, I am usually led by impulse and sudden necessity.
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
Something made from organic cotton, it feels so soft and luxurious.
What endures throughout the seasons?
Silk - keeps you warm and cool, and always has an air of elegance.
Your favourite shop?
Victorian Gilt in Greenlane, because it's authentic, historical, there are lots of interesting things to rummage through.
What do you wear to work?
Usually jeans and a blouse.
What do you wear when relaxing at home?
Something soft and comfy with slippers.
Never caught wearing?
Polar fleece.
How would you describe your style?
Maybe a little bit of inner-city mum, mixed with a little antiquity.
Describe the best outfit you've ever worn.
The dress I wore to my high school ball: so many weeks of dreaming and contemplation had gone into one dress, choosing the style, selecting fabrics, trims and accessories.
How would your best friend describe your style?
Hopefully that I am difficult to stereotype into a category.
Who is your ultimate fashion plate?
Florence Broadhurst.
What is your handbag - and what's in it?
A brown leather satchel. It has all the necessities of life - keys and phone along with a notebook, pawpaw balm and a crumpled notice from my daughter's kindergarten.
Your favourite stylish place?
Coco's Cantina on K Rd in Auckland.
What one item from your wardrobe do you put on and immediately feel great in?
My velvet jacket.
What's your beauty essential?
Lots of organic vegetables and a good moisturiser.
