Fashion plate: Maria Kozub

Ruby red reminds Maria Kozub of her mum's 80s stilettos. Picture / Babiche Martens

Maria Kozub launched her fashion career with one of New Zealand's top labels. Fresh out of fashion school, she landed a job in the Zambesi workroom, giving her a platform to learn about the industry from the ground up.

"I was fortunate enough to spend three years there, and I also had the opportunity to design a few pieces for each of their collections."

This year, Kozub moved to new label Storm. "Being part of a brand new, up-and-coming label is an amazing opportunity. This is where I really get to play with ideas and concepts and turn them into a reality.

"It's pretty cool seeing people on the street enjoying what we are doing," says Kozub, who works with Storm founder Deborah Caldwell.

She is inspired by her friends and music. "Both play a big part in influencing my design process."

What is your favourite accessory of the moment?

Long antique silver necklaces. Every time I visit Poland I add to my collection. It's the best place ever to find that kind of thing. I also really love what (Auckland jewellery designer) Susie Cropper does. Her new range is stunning.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

My Storm army bomber. I actually can't stop wearing it, and now I have one in each colour - black and sawdust. For the life of me I can't remember what I wore before they entered my wardrobe.

Favourite hotels?

Hotel Duminy Vendome in Paris. A really quaint and kind of rickety hotel. I think it used to be a monastery.

What is your beauty routine?

I use Uspa Awaken cleanser, Uspa Vitamin C Hydrating Elixir and when I can, I get Concept Hydrating Facials and Beach Feet Pedicures every month at Maximum Effect. They are the best. Total heaven.

What can't you live without?

Vintage blouses. I love the detailing you always find on them. I've found some real gems at Fast & Loose.

Who does the best handbags?

Coco and Franc. Rebecca Mawhinney always manages to put a modern spin on vintage bag design. She has a talent for sourcing antique bag clasps, which is why she does limited runs of purses and bags.

Who inspires you?

Patti Smith. She's somebody who challenges the conventions of beauty, and has created her own individual style by mixing masculine lines with a thrift shop sensibility.

The essential item for summer?

Where does one begin? Heavens. A great shirt dress will see you through the summer season. So easy to dress up or dress down.

What to avoid?

Anything too tight. No amount of fake tan will make that look good.

Favourite colour and why?

Ruby Red. Reminds me of my mum's red sling-back stilettos. It was the 80s after all.

Any fashion disasters you'd care to mention?

Let's just say 14 to 16 weren't very good years.

What's your biggest indulgence?

Denim. I can't get enough of it. I have jeans and denim nearly spilling out of my room. I'm constantly on the hunt for vintage denim gems.

What's your favourite look?

It depends on the mood, but if I'm kicking back I love nothing better than Cheap Monday skinny jeans and an oversized tee with a cropped winter jacket.

Best outfit ever?

Beautiful vintage-influenced dresses with skinny jeans. Working at Storm, I'm lucky because I get to choose the best of both worlds. This look has definitely inspired me for the new collection, the Pretenders.

Best fashion bargain?

Original 80s stiletto pumps for only $60. You can't go wrong with that. Also, Briarwood has some great boot bargains at the moment.

The one rule you always dress by?

At this time of the year, warmth is my number one rule. I hate the cold.

The one (fashion) rule you always break?

I don't know that I really follow any rules, so I'm probably breaking a few too many with out even knowing it.

What is the one key item of clothing everyone should have in their wardrobe?

Definitely leggings. I have lived in them over winter and I've got Lycra ones for the summer. They are so comfortable.

Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?

My friend Anna Huff has just come back from Los Angeles. I would love to plunder some of her new purchases, especially her Lanvin-inspired high-gloss red heels.