Kate Waterhouse
Media personality, 38
When it comes to Kate Waterhouse’s wardrobe, one word comes to mind: “class”. Whether she’s donning sweats and sneakers or a Christophe Decarnin Balmain blazer, Kate has a way of styling outfits that is effortlessly stylish yet super glamorous. From her late grandmother’s lace handkerchief through to her envied designer shoe and handbag collection, Kate’s wardrobe is what every fashion girl dreams of: haute heaven.
How would you describe your personal style?
Relaxed yet polished.
How has your style changed over the years?
When I was in my 20s, I used to wear heels all day, every day. Now as a working mum, I have to have a practical wardrobe. I love clothes that I can wear to a meeting then be able to swap my heels for flats or sneakers to pick up my daughters from school and afternoon activities.
Who are your style icons?
My mum (Gai) will always be a style icon for me. My love of fashion came from her. I have fond memories of dressing up in her amazing wardrobe when I was a little girl and I still love seeing her racing outfits. She is so individual, and never follows trends. I also love Giovanna Battaglia (Swarovski creative director), she’s so chic.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
My late grandma Valerie, (my mother’s mother) passed down a lot of her fabulous coats and dresses. The most special of all was a lace handkerchief that she gave me to take on my wedding day.
Must have summer accessory? A great pair of slides.
Have you ever made a style faux pas?
Oh many! I look back at the whole 2000s and everything was way too short and tight, too many hair extensions and way too much fake tan.
What’s the most you have spent on an outfit?
My first big purchase of an item (and probably still my biggest) was a Balmain blazer back in the Christophe Decarnin era.
What is the most surprising thing in (or about) your wardrobe?
Because I work in fashion, I’m often in glamorous clothes reporting for Channel 7 at the races or dressed up for a designer event. But, surprisingly, most of my wardrobe consists of workout gear, denim and T-shirts.
Top three wardrobe must haves?
A black blazer, a great pair of jeans and good, white T-shirts.
What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe?
My wedding dress. I doubt my daughters will wear it but I still have it boxed up and stored away.
What would you buy if money was no object?
A Chanel couture gown.
Summer or winter fashion? Summer! I’m definitely a beach girl.
Heels or sneakers?
Sneakers day to day. Heels for work.
How many pairs of shoes do you own? Gosh, too many to count. I’m definitely an accessories girl – when I splurge it’s usually on bags or shoes.
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