Best foot forward

Jo Pearson's love of shoes is so great that she set up the beautiful shoe boutique Mei Mei on Ponsonby Rd five years ago. Shoe-lovers are eternally grateful.

Who are your favourite shoe designers?

Christian Louboutin (arriving in the shop in February), Olivia Morris for her quirky, beautifully made and comfortable shoes and boots, and Henry Beguelin for the most beautiful hand-finished shoes.

What do you wear to work?

I always start with the shoes and everything else just follows. I pretty much dress according to my mood. I'm into so many different looks that it can get quite confusing some mornings. Lately I've been wearing dresses and skirts.

What is your favourite accessory of the moment?

My red suede Olivia Morris boots.

What are staple pieces for a good wardrobe?

As I'm quite eclectic with my own wardrobe, I'm probably not the best person to be giving advice, but I think it's always good to have: two pairs of jeans - one loose (Helmut Lang) and one more fitted (Paul & Joe); basic T-shirts - I love Petit Bateau and Vanessa Bruno; basic black pants - Trina Turk are a fantastic fit and I also love Helen Cherry; black dress - Dianne von Furstenberg makes the most amazing wrap-dresses for girls with waists and hips; pretty tops - Workshop is always good for this sort of thing, as well as Glassons and Portmans; a black jacket - spend some money on a well-cut, lightweight wool jacket and you'll always get your money's worth; shoes - classic, black pointy-toe pump, round-toe pump, a good flat everyday shoe and a black, flat knee-high boot.

What do you wear when you're relaxing at home?

I hate to say it, but track pants and ugg boots.

What is the last item of clothing you bought?

A dress for $50 from H&M in Milan. I love it - my best buy this season.

Favourite hotels?

The Mandarin Oriental on Hong Kong Island and the Relais Christine in St Germain in Paris.

What inspires you?

Family, friends and travel.

What is your biggest indulgence?

My facials with Claudette at Claudette, and haircuts with Louise Pilkington at Servilles Ponsonby. They always make me feel special.

What is your beauty routine?

A facial and a pedicure once a month, a good night cream and the cheapest but best cleanser ever recommended to me - Cetaphil.

What can't you live without?

My husband, JB, and Jimmy the Brussels Griffen dog come a close second to my two baths a day and my latest food obsession - creme caramels.