Fashion Plate: Yvonne Brownlie

For Yvonne Brownlie, life is all about style. Photo / Babiche Martens

As general manager of Look Good Feel Better, Yvonne Brownlie helps women going through cancer treatment to do just that. The charity offers small "makeover" workshops for female cancer patients, which aim to help boost their confidence and outlook - a role that is, unsurprisingly, very rewarding.

Brownlie's background is in the beauty industry - she began her career working with Vidal Sassoon in London before working as a buyer for Myer in Australia, then in senior management for L'Oreal and BDM Grange - and has been general manager of LGFB for five years. They are holding a gala dinner and auction on July 31 - the "Pacific Ports O'Call" gala dinner and auction - to help raise funds and awareness. Visit lookgoodfeelbetter.co.nz for tickets.

Who are your favourite designers?
Giorgio Armani. His styles are classical, yet each season he has certain pieces that make a season's fashion statement. I also like Karen Walker - she always manages to add that touch of glamour.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A fabulous black tunic. It has this season's silver stud design across the front and is so versatile it can be worn with leggings and boots and looks great with a short black skirt.

Who or what inspires you?
I'm inspired by women who have achieved against all odds and still manage to have a social conscience.

Your favourite accessory?
My handbag - I love to change bags to go with my outfits. I have a favourite, which my husband bought me - a beautiful red Escada. I get so much use out of it.

Who does the best shoes?
I love Sergio Rossi shoes. They are stylish, feminine and comfortable.

What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
I know we always say it, but a little black dress is a must. You can dress it up or down and it takes you anywhere.

Your favourite shop?
Harrods London. I still enjoy walking through the doors on visits to London. It's steeped in tradition and it evokes memories of my time living there.

How do you define the word "fashionable"?
Fashionable to me means chic, in vogue, trendy.

Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
Jennifer Lopez - she always seems to have the most wonderful evening gowns.

What do you wear to work?
It all depends on my schedule. I check my diary to see what meetings/events I have to attend. It could be a tailored suit, jacket and pants, or the latest stylish top with leggings. I never wear jeans to work.

Most cherished item?
I have an amazing short evening dress designed by Ungaro; my all-time favourite. It has a beautiful diamante-studded black velvet top, which falls into a black satin bottom.

Most stylish city?
Where else but Paris?

How would you describe your style?
I like to think that I'm well-groomed yet stylish and fashionable.

Who is your ultimate fashion plate?
Carla Bruni-Sarkozy: she always looks so chic.

Describe the best outfit you've ever worn.
I had a lovely Ungaro black suit that I bought in the late 80s. The jacket had an amazing cut and had wonderful gold buttons in the shape of stars. It took me anywhere.

What is your favourite decade, style-wise?
The 1980s.

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
I can be ready in 30 minutes.

What's in your handbag?
My makeup purse which contains lipstick, lip gloss and a comb. My set of Mont Blanc pens, mobile phone, business card holder, keys and a small address book which was given to me by one of my very best friends.