Signature style: Brigitte Berger

Brigitte Berger loves her ethnic jewellery and possum fur gloves. Picture / Neil Gussey

Brigitte Berger's Parisian father was living in New Caledonia when he met her mother, and she was born in the nearby village Koumac. A successful model and recognisable face locally, Berger's most exciting campaign was in Tokyo for Issey Miyake. You may remember her from her television commercials for Europa and Bendon.

What is the essential difference between how French women and New Zealand women dress?

French women tend to dress classically. They will follow trends if it makes sense, but always allow for a little nonchalance. They're big on accessories too.

Who are your favourite fashion designers?

Marc Jacobs, Chloe and Roberto Cavalli. In New Zealand Helen Cherry, Zambesi and Hailwood.

The essential items for winter?

My new Les Rosieres oven designed by Paul Bocuse, my Kathryn Wilson riding boots, a classic trench and my poodle Minouche.

What would you never wear?

Velour tracksuits and midriff T-shirts.

Favourite local shops?

5 Loaves and 2 Fish on Jervois Rd. The coffee, and bacon and egg tortilla is to die for. And Abraham's big smile at the Ardmore Dairy.

What is your favourite accessory of the moment?

My ethnic jewellery and possum fur gloves.

What is your biggest indulgence?

A foot massage at Bliss in Newmarket.

Latest buy?

An angle grinder. We're in the middle of renovations.

Any style icons?

Audrey Hepburn, Lauren Hutton and Sofia Coppola.

What is your beauty routine?

I take 2000mg tablets of flax oil and two Ester-C a day. Then clean, clean and moisturise. And a long kiss goodnight from my husband.

Where do you get your hair cut?

Servilles.

Favourite hotels?

The Yasawa Island Resort in Fiji, definitely. It's pure indulgence and unpretentious.

What was the last book you read?

Fatima's Good Fortune by Joanne and Gerry Dryansky.

What can't you live without?

My friends, family and love.