The wardrobe item this TV host swears by for plane travel

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

How would you describe your style? My day-to-day style is working mum: a comfy pair of trousers, a singlet and cardi, and I’m ready to go. But I’m just as comfortable in a high-end frock.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A black Chanel cardigan I bought in 1986. It’s beautiful but hardly worn; it’s that weird thing where it was too good to wear, and it’s now probably turning to dust.

And the most recent addition? A baby blue, vegan leather skirt from Saba.

What would you wear … on a first date? It’s never going to happen, so I can say with absolute conviction, pyjamas … on a plane? Because you have to be aware of maybe jumping into a blown-up slide, a trouser is always best, preferably with an elasticised waist for comfort. I’m a fan of the matching tracksuit … on the red carpet? Something by Melbourne designer Alin Le’Kal – with an Adidas sneaker.

What’s your favourite fashion era? I love the 1940s for the shapes, cuts, pencil skirts and coats.

Do you have a favourite designer? No, I mix and match. I’ll wear pieces by COS, Witchery and Gucci. I don’t go for one full look.

What’s your fragrance of choice? I’ve worn Paloma Picasso since I was in high school. I discovered it in one of those packets of tiny perfumes you’d be excited to get when you went overseas. I’ve tried to step away from it over the years; I took a small vacation to Eternity by Calvin Klein, but I always return to the musky gem.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? A decent bra, large underpants and a flat shoe.

Any go-to jewellery? Two exquisite rings by Sydney jeweller Victoria Buckley.

Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? A pair of gauchos [ultra wide-legged pants] when I was about 12. I don’t think they’ve made a comeback, the mighty gaucho. Looking back, we should have steered well clear.

What was your first fashion moment? My mother always had exquisite taste. I remember when I was a child she would save up and maybe once a year buy a pair of Charles Jourdan shoes. I learnt that if you’ve got one good thing, one treat, you can build around that.

And your worst fashion mistake? There’s a photo of me at Club Med in 1988 in a straw hat. I have no business in a hat, plus I had on shoulder pads that looked like I might have been playing in an American football team. At the time they didn’t feel like mistakes but looking back you laugh [and think], “Why did I go out the door?”

What’s on your wish list? I have one frock from The Vampire’s Wife and I’d love another. I also dream about adding a corseted Vivienne Westwood gown to my collection. I have an enviable wardrobe from my 75 years in the business! When I moved into my house, it had a weird sauna off the bathroom. I couldn’t deal with anyone else’s sweat, so I made it into my gown cellar.

What shoes do you wear most often? I’ve got a substantial collection of Adidas trainers in various colours. It doesn’t matter what outfit comes my way, I have a trainer to go with it.

Is there something you’d never wear? I haven’t completely turned my back on denim, but I am rarely in jeans.

Is there a current trend you like? Big sleeve, small waist.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? I am a huge Victoria Beckham fan. When you have a brain and mouth like mine, dressing with a more conservative edge is helpful. It’s a gentle stir; you look quite sensible, but you’ve got the mouth of a wharf worker.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’m very much enjoying a Kristian Williams silk pyjama-style set. It looks like you’ve made a bigger effort than you have.

Julia Morris is co-host of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! on Channel 10 and 10Play.

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