Melissa Leong
40, judge, Masterchef Australia
Louis Vuitton handbags and paintsplattered Blundstones are just some of the sartorial treasures you will find when delving through Masterchef judge Melissa Leong’s wardrobe. I may not be a “foodie”, but I find myself tuning in most nights to glimpse Leong’s bold and bright outfits (I once requested her nail colour and shape at my nail salon … very chic!). With a style philosophy that encourages us to dig deep into our soul rather than our pockets, Melissa’s wardrobe is all class.
How would you describe your personal style?
Eclectic and ever-changing. My enduring philosophy on style is that it is something that evolves and cannot be bought: you have to earn it.
Who are your style icons?
People with a strong sense of who they are, which is reflected in their sartorial choices. Including, but not limited to Tilda Swinton, David Bowie, Tracee Ellis Ross, Cate Blanchett, Grace Jones, Iris Apfel, Billy Porter.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
While I do attempt to purge and donate or give away clothes regularly, some things do hang around. Probably my first Louis Vuitton acquisition – a pochette (small handbag) my mother bought for me when I turned 18. I still use it today.
What are your favourite brands?
Ones with substance and, increasingly, luxury made to last. We are so fortunate in Australia to be among incredible designers like Jason Grech, Gary Bigeni and Sonia Cappellazzo. I am also a fan of Wardrobe.nyc, Alemais and Camilla and Marc. Further afield, Gucci continues to make the kind of whimsical pieces that appeal to me, and if I were cool, I would wear a lot more Saint Laurent.
Have you ever made a style faux pas?
Don’t we all?! I have tried on many characters in an attempt to find who I am, but that’s half the fun, isn’t it? I recall committing to pin curls while living on a sheep dairy in rural Tasmania … don’t ask if there are pics.
What’s the most you have spent on an outfit?
I don’t think I’ve ever bought an entire outfit for any one occasion. I like to pick and choose pieces that excite me.
What is the most surprising thing in your wardrobe?
There’s a lot of black in there. My work person is very colourful, but in my off time, I find minimalism soothing.
Top three wardrobe must haves? A great black blazer or jacket. I am new to attempted adulthood, but have become obsessed with the perfect jacket that makes you feel put together.
What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe?
My farm clothes, particularly my paint-splattered Blundstones and Hunter wellingtons that saw me through a very formative time, living in rural Tassie.
What would you buy if money was no object? The entire collection of Celine SS 2020, ’ 70s glam, edgy, fun.
How many pairs of shoes do you own? Not as many as you think. While my work wardrobe (which I don’t own!) is huge, I probably only own about 20 pairs.
Masterchef Australia: Fans & Favourites airs Sunday-thursday, 7.30pm on 10.
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