Wayne Painter

different from everyone else’s casual clothes. I have one pair of track pants that I wear to walk the dog. My husband dresses like a general Kiwi bloke most of the time, but when we go out he dresses up really nicely and does the 1950s husband look for me.

It changes the way I interact with people because I feel more confident. I think I have better posture when I’m wearing my pin-up and vintage styles too, because clothes that aren’t stretchy are much less comfy to slouch in. It definitely makes you more aware of how you’re walking and sitting and standing.

I think this style of clothing is a lifelong thing for me. It’s timeless, you can wear it at any age, or any size. You don’t have to feel awkward if you’re over 20 and wearing short shorts. It’s a very forgiving inspiration to have for your wardrobe. I’ll definitely be wearing it forever. MOTORCYCLE ENTHUSIAST I’m the North Harbour branch president of the Ulysses Club, which is an international social club for motorcyclists over 40. It was started to give older motorcyclists a chance to ride and socialise together, because all the young ones want to go heads down and arse up and 200 miles an hour.

I usually wear leather when I’m riding, or GoreTex, depending on the weather. If you hit the road, you just have to hope the leather’s strong enough to keep you safe if you come off. It’s pretty good, believe me, because I have. I came off in diesel on a corner. Diesel and motorbikes don’t go together. The back wheel slid out, bike went over me three times, but I just got a sprained finger. That’s the way it is. Some people say if you haven’t crashed three times you’re not a true motorcyclist. I don’t believe that.

My favourite outfit? I only have one — heavy leather jeans, and a leather jacket. I wear a leather vest too, with logo and badges on it, like a life member badge, and remembrance pins. I’ve got a drawer full of 300 or 400 badges from different