Nicole Adolphe

Head of style, The Iconic

If anyone can pull off “minimalist French girl” as well as a mash of Jacquemus “print and colour” it is The Iconic’s head of style, Nicole Adolphe, where her daily fashion inspirations are reflective of her mood and schedule.

Citing Chiara Ferragni as an inspiration, Adolphe prefers to make a statement with her clothes where a minimalistic approach to accessories ensures her looks are bold but classic.

Erring on the side of “dressy”, Adolphe has learned that it is always better to be overdressed where one key luxury handbag can instantly transform an outfit or seasonal wardrobe.

How would you describe your personal style?

I’m a Gemini, so I move between two sides. For work, I like a minimalistic French girl feel, with pared down blacks, whites and neutrals that I am comfortable working in with sneakers, slides or boots. For events and weekend looks, I love colour and prints. I am not big on accessories, I prefer to make a statement with my clothes.

Who are your style icons? I love Zendaya and Chiara Ferragni’s style and one of my favourite influencers is @withkro. I also get inspiration from designers from runway looks or street style fashion week imagery.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?

See by Chloe wooden block heels I have had for 10 years. They always come back in style when ’70s fashion is trending. I also have a Maje black dress that never dates.

What are your favourite brands? I mainly wear Australian labels and my go-tos are Camilla and Marc, Hansen & Gretel,

Suboo, Acler, Shona Joy, By Johnny, Alemais and new label Roame. Internationally I like Proenza Schouler, Stine Goya, By Far, Jacquemus, Saint Laurent, Ganni, Loewe and Prada.

Have you ever made a style faux pas?

I have turned up too casual to an event before, in jeans whilst everyone else was dressed up in cocktail. I’ve learnt it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.

What’s the most you have spent on an outfit?

I’ve spent $800 on a coat and over $1000 on shoes but I like to shop for pieces under $500, with most sitting under $200 so I can change my looks more regularly. I invest in a designer bag a year and a pair of luxury sunglasses and keep the rest affordable.

What is the most surprising thing about your wardrobe? It’s full of colour and prints at one end and a whole rack of black items.

Top three wardrobe must haves? A black T-shirt goes with almost anything, bomber jacket adds a cool edge and wide-leg jeans.

What would you buy if money was no object? Everything Jacquemus and Prada.

How many pairs of shoes do you own? I have at least 30 pairs in my room.

Best designer fashion purchase this year? By Far handbag, also a one-shoulder Bassike tank top.

Best beauty purchases this year? Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair.