BRISBANE TIMES
Model Elyse Knowles exudes an effortless, earthy style. The Byron Bay-based beauty chats chakras, linen and the ’70s.
I don’t really care about big-ticket items. I’m pretty low-key.
How would you describe your style?
When I’m at home in Byron, it’s quite relaxed: I wear a lot of linen. When I come to the city for work, I make it chicer by adding a structured shirt or blazer. Being comfortable is key for me, simple sophisticated outfits that you can dress up or down.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
A leather jacket.
And the most recent item you bought?
A really cute pink shirt with blousy sleeves from Ministry of Style. It’s perfect pared back with denim for that chic casual look.What would you wear on ...
... a first date? Denim shorts, a band tee and a blazer.
... a plane? Linen pants and shirt.
... to the Oscars? I would spark it up in a statement dress in a loud colour. You want to stand out for
all the right reasons.
What’s your dream lingerie look?
White, lacy and comfortable.
What’s your favourite fashion decade?
I love the ’70s – I have that hippie flair in me.
Do you have a favourite fragrance?
I tend to wear Aveda Chakras, which are natural oils and remedies. I spray a certain chakra in the morning, depending on what I’m feeling that day. Also, Aesop Marrakech – it’s my favourite. I even put it on the tip of my nose so I can smell it. I love it.
As a child, most of Elyse’s clothes were made by her mother.CREDIT:COURTESY OF ELYSE KNOWLES
What are the three essential items in your wardrobe?
A bikini, a white tee and a pair of statement sunglasses.
What is the first piece of clothing you remember wearing?
My mum would make our clothes – she was very creative and loved being on her sewing machine. I remember wearing really cute dresses, always with a hat in the same fabric. And when my sister came along, we wore matching outfits.
Your worst fashion mistake?
When you don’t have time for a fitting and a dress arrives for an event that is way too small or too big. You just have to deal with it, so off you go feeling very uncomfortable. That is a nightmare for me.
What would you buy if money were no object?
I don’t really care about big-ticket items. I’m pretty low-key. I like things I can wear over and over again. They don’t have to be expensive.
Is there a current trend you like?
Neutrals – all the whites, creams, beiges, caramels.
What shoes do you wear most often?
If I’m in Byron Bay it’s really cute brown leather sandals or Birkenstocks. If not them, it’s no shoes at all because I’m covered in sand all the time.
Who is your style muse?
Elle Macpherson has always been an idol of mine, not just for style but the way she goes about her whole life. She looks healthy, she shines bright.
What was your first fashion moment?
I have been modelling since I was 10, so I’ve had plenty of them. I thought it was pretty cool to be able to dress up and have photos taken as a kid.
What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look?
A big baggy dress to throw over a bikini – something I can wear from the beach to lunch to dinner.
Elyse Knowles is a Myer ambassador.