MARIE CLAIRE
At just 25-years-old Elyse Knowles' career is going from strength to strength. Since winning The Block with boyfriend Josh Barker, less than a year ago, the model has become a household name. She recently took over from Jennifer Hawkins as the face of Myer and now she's taking on a new role as Aveda's brand ambassador. A match made in heaven for Elyse, a self-professed eco-warrior and the Australian plant-based hair care brand.
"I’ve made it quite obvious over the last six months that I've become even more committed to living a much more eco-friendly lifestyle. I would love to encourage as many people as possible to do whatever is within their reach to make our world a more sustainable place," Knowles told marie claire. Here, we chat the Elyse about her eco-friendly hair and beauty philosophy and the secret behind *those* gorgeous waves.
How important is environmental sustainability in your everyday life?
EK: It’s hugely important. It's not just about us. We have our kids, their kids and their kids to think about. It's a huge responsibility, hence why we need to share the load.
Do you have a message for Australians who want to be more eco-friendly, but don’t know the best place to start?
EK: Start wherever you can! Even the smallest gestures add up and if we all get involved then that’s when you see the real change. Take your own bags to the supermarket, use a Keep Cup for your coffee or tea, pick up some rubbish on the street or beach if you see it… it all makes a difference. I also think it is our responsibility to be supporting brands and companies who stand by these values when we do our shopping. AVEDA is the perfect example of a company that goes above and beyond in making our world a more eco-friendly, sustainable place at no expense to the amazing products available… and I am so proud to stand beside them.
Your signature look is so effortless, how do you create those beachy waves?
EK: My hair has a natural wave so it has always been easier to go with and enhance the wave than fight against it! But with a look so simple it is all about the products you use also… the Aveda Texture Tonic ($39; at aveda.com.au) is my very dear friends in creating this look. I also use the Aveda Air Control Hairspray ($40; at aveda.com.au) to finish it off.
Which products do you carry in your gym bag?
Elyse: Dry shampoo is must-have to revive my style after a gym session so that I’m not having to wash my hair every day–also helping me cut down my water consumption. Plus it makes my hair smell amazing! My favourite is Aveda Shampure™ Dry Shampoo ($32; at aveda.com.au).
What about beauty and skin care, what’s your daily routine?
Elyse: As far as skin care, I always take makeup off whenever I get home. I like to let my skin breathe where I can. I cleanse and moisturise religiously plus will also have facials to keep my skin as healthy as possible. I also only use products with an inbuilt SPF. As far as beauty, when I am not working I like to be quite minimal… a light foundation, some bronzer, some mascara and a lip gloss or balm.