VICTORIA COLLISON

GARDEN-INSPIRED DINNER

A longstanding fashion editor of Vogue Australia, Victoria now sources decorative objects for her pop-up stores and website. Her love of fashion, interiors, design, art and travel are all combined in one serendipitous tabletop for Inside Out.

Describe your table-decorating style?

I love planning a table, whether that’s a relaxed setting outside in the courtyard or a more formal table in the dining room. I actually prefer dinner, as to me it has more of a sense of occasion – especially when it’s candlelit. I love entertaining in a low-key way, as it is a bit like planning a photoshoot (gathering all the elements to see what works best). I like to mix vintage and contemporary pieces, for a more individual look as opposed to anything too generic. My table setting often ends up being more ‘set’ as it’s the process that I enjoy.

Can you share your style inspo?

I get inspiration from many sources, such as artworks, films, design books and, most of all, from travelling. I am not locked into any particular style. I love mixing up styles, including decorative English, Mediterranean and Deco.

What is your idea of a perfect table ?

There should be a lot to look at. Flowers are all-important. I like more romantic ones as opposed to anything too sculptural.

Name one thing you can’t stand at your table

Gold cutlery – and tricky napkins.

How do you collect your tableware?

Mainly when travelling – flying home with candlesticks, bowls and jugs on my lap. I love going to antique fairs and markets, seeking one-off pieces. I have some antique English pieces from my mother and uncle that I love to mix with more contemporary items. I go for an eclectic mix.

What is your favourite colour palette?

More often than not, green is involved. This table is a pale grey/lilac cloth with forest green napkins and dark red/deep purple flowers. Or I like a dark cloth with pale flowers. And a plain colour in the dining room; a colourful print outside.