ELISE PIOCH BALZAC
ENTREPRENEUR, 41 The French-born founder of Maison Balzac traces her style back to her Gallic roots.
Have you always had an interest in fashion? As far as my mother can remember I have been into details, style and fashion. Apparently at age two I refused to leave a shoe store until she bought a pair of Pom d’api red patent shoes. What do you think are the hallmarks of French style? Simplicity, elegance and a touch of masculinity. Does fashion influence the products you design for Maison Balzac? Absolutely — the packaging of the first candles I created four years ago was based on Christopher Kane’s 2011 fluoro collection. I used bright colors, which was unusual for candles at the time. You moved to Australia in late 2004 and now live between France, Sydney and the NSW Hawkesbury region. Has your style changed since? I’ve relaxed a bit in the way I dress. I used to wear lots of Vanessa Bruno, pants from Viktor and Rolf, Maison Margiela coats, Hermès knits and Repetto shoes. Always black. Now I have learnt to introduce colour and discovered Bassike for everyday casual pieces. What are your go-to pieces when at home on the Hawkesbury? I always wear my Yves Salomon fur vest, black denim from Acne Studios and R.M. Williams boots. The perfect outfit; comfortable, hard-wearing and warm. Where will you be spending Christmas Day? With my family in the south of France, in the home I grew up in. We will light a fire and roast a big chicken in it, drink Champagne and finish with the famous 13 desserts of Provence — a tradition of serving dried fruits, nuts, nougat and other assorted treats that can vary from region to region. Will you wear something special? I found a black Christophe Lemaire dress in Paris recently, which I’ll wear with red lipstick. Are red lips a signature of yours? I like to accessorise with red lipstick from Chanel and bold necklaces from Lyn and Tony. What skincare brands are in your beauty cabinet? Dermalogica (I love how natural and efficient their products are), Buly and Twelve, a brand I discovered at Luna in Surry Hills. The best style advice you’ve ever received? If you feel comfortable with your clothes, it will shine through. Dress for yourself, not for others! For more information, visit maisonbalzac.com