‘I wear the knock-off’: TV host Mel Tracina’s budget fashion and beauty finds

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, TV host Mel Tracina.

How would you describe your style? It’s based on my mood. I’m not one of those people who can pull an outfit out the night before, because in the morning I’m a different person.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? My late Nonna’s handbags, neckerchiefs and costume jewellery. My favourite is a brown leather bag, which I love because it’s the perfect size but also because there’s a mirror and comb of hers inside.

And the most recent addition? Summer athletic wear from Lorna Jane.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? I can’t live without lipstick: a nude or brown ’90s lip is my current vibe. I need a good pair of jeans – I’m loving a black, high-waisted pair with a subtle acid wash from H&M – and a classic black blazer.

What would you wear … on a first date? Something classy with a bit of drama, such as a leather miniskirt, stockings, a nice fitted top and heels. … on a plane? Jeans, a blazer and sneakers in case I’m late and have to run. … on the red carpet? I love getting glammed up. I’ve worn a lot of beautiful looks, but a favourite is the Tojhà dress I wore to this year’s Logies. It was so comfortable; I could breathe, sit down, eat and even go to the bathroom!

What’s your favourite fashion era? The 1940s for the cinched waists, shoulder pads and hats.

What’s your favourite label? I love Area NYC because I like things that are dramatic and over-the-top – a T-shirt bejewelled with diamantés, for example.

What’s your fragrance of choice? I love perfume; I’ve come a long way from wearing Impulse. Hermès’ “Un Jardin Sur La Lagune” is my favourite. I’ve recently discovered Palermo, so now I’m wearing the knock-off version.

Any go-to jewellery? I’m not spending big money on jewellery. I’m going to Colette, Lovisa and Harlow & Co and getting statement earrings and cool pieces that I can chop and swap with my outfits.

Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? Yes, it was a cute little dress in rose print that flared out at the waist when I was about five.

What was your first fashion moment? Attending the AACTA Awards this year. It was the first time I’d worn a designer dress that was custom-made for me: a plum, off-the-shoulder gown with a corset top by Cappellazzo Couture. I felt so special, I couldn’t breathe, but I didn’t care.

And your worst fashion mistake? Y2K fashion was not for me; there were ample mistakes made, such as wearing skirts over pants, and low-rise hipster pants.

What’s on your wish list? A pretty handbag, like the Dolce & Gabbana “Devotion” bag.

Is there something you’d never wear? Low-rise jeans look great on other people, but they don’t suit my body.

Is there a current trend you like? I love a tonal outfit, pyjama-style sets, oversized blazers and a white shirt. Now that I’m older I can trust myself to go a whole day without spilling food on a white shirt.

What do you sleep in? Cachia cotton pyjamas.

What shoes do you wear most often? I rotate three pairs of Adidas “Gazelle” sneakers in black, pink and tan.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? Fran Drescher from The Nanny.

What do you wear on a typical working day? For Big Brother we’re going for “classy girl boss”. I’m wearing Aussie labels such as Effie Kats, Bec + Bridge, Meshki and Nookie.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’ll be at home in an old tracksuit and slippers watching something trashy on TV.

Mel Tracina is the host of Big Brother on Channel 10.

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