HARRIET BIRRELL
COOKBOOK AUTHOR AND RETAILER, 32 For the owner of Natural Harry, sustainability is at the heart of all of her endeavours as well as her personal style.
How would you describe your style? Down-to-earth; no fuss; no make-up; natural.
Are you interested in fashion? I have always been interested in fashion — my earliest memories all involve clothes and sewing. I even made my own teddies and dolls when I was a child.
Who are your style influences? Anyone who radiates ease and grace in their clothing choices.
What’s the best style advice you’ve ever received? Find colours that suit your complexion and don’t slavishly follow trends. Buy according to personal taste, in colours that flatter, and you won’t go wrong.
What are your wardrobe essentials? Travel wrap dress, rope sandals, hat, and Blundstones.
What are your favourite clothing labels?
Spell & The Gypsy Collective, Rowie and Andean Collective. I love op shops too.
Where do you shop for clothing and accessories? Op shops, vintage shops, second-hand shops and my store, Natural Harry!
Do you have any favourite accessories?
My dad’s old Akubra and a ceramic travel mug.
What are your go-to hair and beauty products?
I make my own shampoo and rinse with apple cider vinegar (recipes coming in book three!). I make my own ‘beauty’ products but keep it minimal and simple; I use very little make-up. For my body routine, the best thing I do is fill my plate with plant-based wholefoods and drink lots of water.
Do you have a favourite perfume? I make my own perfume too. Essential oils make the best perfume!
What do you never leave home without? Water, my dog Fred, bathers and a towel — you never know when you might want a swim!
What are you reading? The Yoga of Eating by Charles Eisenstein, Bewildered by Laura Waters and Ancient Wisdom for Modern Health by Mark Bunn.
What are you listening to? Bobby Alu, Alana Wilkinson, Shakey Graves, and all the oldies.
As for podcasts, I’m really into Deliciously Ella, Ted Radio Hour and How I Built This.
What are you watching? The Game Changers on Netflix, it’s about plant-based eating.
What do you love about country Australia? Everything! I grew up in regional Australia and it’s where I feel most at home. I love the little country towns and the quietness. But the environment — coast and bush — is the real treasure.
For more information, visit naturalharry.com.au
“I love everything about country Australia. It’s where I grew up and where I feel most at home.”