KEY POINTS:
Jennifer Thorpe has a slight obsession ...
"At the moment I'm inspired by all things 90s. Think the first series of Beverly Hills 90210. If only I could raid the wardrobe department from that show!" says the 27-year-old hairdresser, and winner of the 2008/2009 NZ Schwarzkopf Newcomer of the Year.
Thorpe, who works at Servilles, Newmarket, beat out 200 other newcomers to win the title.
Her three winning looks were inspired by geometric shapes and, what else, 90s rave culture.
"Inspiration for me comes from musicians, magazines and looking at people on the street."
Thorpe did an intermediate degree in fashion design at Auckland University of Technology, and hopes to incorporate fashion design and styling with her hairdressing. In the meantime, though, she's concentrating on her career as one of New Zealand's top up-and-coming cutters.
Who are your favourite designers?
My favourite New Zealand designers are Lonely Hearts and Mala Brajkovic.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
An amazing purple leather bustier from a dodgy leather sample store on Oxford St in Sydney.
What's your biggest indulgence?
Karen Walker jewellery. I love her quirky pendants and chunky rings. I try and buy myself a piece every season that I will have for years.
Best fashion bargain?
Number 1 Shoes! You can find an awesome pair for about $30. Obviously they are not made to last but are great for at least a season.
Who does the best shoes?
A great pair is hard to find in New Zealand, but I think Kathryn Wilson makes great quirky little flats.
Who does the best jeans?
I just bought a pair of super high Cheap Monday jeans. Even though it takes me an hour to get in and out of them, they feel great on and work with everything and were insanely cheap!
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
A leather jacket - timeless and can be worn with everything.
Your favourite shop?
MYHART. They have an amazing mix of everything and the best shoes in New Zealand. I am also a huge fan of second-hand shopping and can spend hours hunting through Savemart.
Your best hair tip?
Embrace your natural hair type and discuss simple techniques with your hairdresser to get the best out of it. Everyone's hair is different so it's about diagnosis of each client's hair and prescribing the correct home hair care and style support.
Your fashion obsession?
Second-hand shopping. It's like finding gold. I can discover a whole season's wardrobe in one day at Savemart and hardly spend a cent!
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
My best friend Rachel's - and I do every weekend!
Is there anything you would never wear?
I never say never and break my own rules all the time.
What won't you be wearing this season?
Anything silver metallic.
What do you wear to work?
Flat shoes! Unfortunately hairdressing is not so good on the legs, so comfy shoes are a must.
Is there anything you think the fashion police should ban?
Crocs. Without a doubt the most hideous shoes ever invented. Who cares if they are comfy? You look like a clown!
You feel best wearing?
New clothes!
Personal style quirk?
Lipsticks. I am a big fan, especially of a really good bright red.
Most stylish city?
I think Japanese girls have amazing style and I would love to visit Tokyo and see them in all their glory.
Favourite place to hang out and people watch?
I have just been over at Australian Fashion Week in Sydney and was totally inspired while watching the girls waiting in the queue for the shows.
What is the most underrated item in fashion?
Hats - so many women are scared of them but they can make a simple outfit look amazing.
