JADE MILES
FARMER, 42 Jade and her partner Charlie have established a fruit and berry orchard at Black Barn Farm in Stanley, Victoria, where visitors can pick their own apples and learn about sustainable food production. What do you love about living in the country? Absolutely everything! From the walk to the school bus to pick up the kids, to potluck dinners and the local post office run by volunteers, I love it all. I especially appreciate the space to grow our own food, which connects us to the seasons and the natural world, and allows us to trade food. I love the lack of faff and the raw truth of living in the country. How would you describe your style? Always natural materials, loads of layers, accessorised, comfortable, flowing, feminine, practical, seasonal, a little old-school farmer. Are you interested in fashion? Very, but not in the sense I follow trends and pore over magazines. My clothes are virtually all second-hand — either from clothes swaps with friends or op shops. My sense of style is forever evolving but I instantly know if something is ‘me’ or not. Even if I’m in the paddock for the day I’ll still consider my outfit. Who are your style influences? Anyone that is comfortable in their own skin. What’s the best style advice you’ve ever received? Don’t ever dress for anyone else — always dress for you and only you. What are your wardrobe essentials? Leggings, shawls, warm socks, scarves (cotton in summer, wool in winter), Birkenstocks, skirts (even in the paddock), overalls and aprons with lots of pockets. What are your favourite clothing labels? Elk, Witchery and Gorman. But I’m equally happy with homemade clothes and those found in op shops. Where do you shop for clothing and accessories? Op shops for clothes and local artisans for accessories and jewellery. Do you have any favourite accessories? All my handmade rings and earrings made by Georgia Marlowe, which I wear everyday, and my leather belt satchel, which I also wear every single day. What are your hair and beauty essentials? I use the Sukin range for my hair and I use SPF 50+ sunscreen every day. What are you reading, listening to and watching? I’m reading Farming Democracy by Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance, I’m listening to anything that makes me feel like dancing while I’m in the orchard, and I’m not watching anything except the odd movie with the kids. To learn more about Black Barn Farm, see page 42.