Signature style: Carol Hirschfeld

Carol Hirschfeld. Picture / Dean Purcell

Carol Hirschfeld's role as senior producer for Campbell Live is more behind the scenes than her previous job as newsreader. But just because the public doesn't get to see so much of her now doesn't mean she's given up dressing well.

Who are your favourite fashion designers?

Tanya Carlson, Kate Sylvester, Adrienne Winkelmann, Molyneux, Zambesi, Alberta Ferretti and John Galliano. I love them all.

What do you wear to work?

Anything ironed.

What is your favourite accessory of the moment?

A string of black pearls. It'll always be my favourite accessory.

What are the staple pieces for a good wardrobe?

Two great suits with trousers - one black and one cream. That covers weddings and funerals.

What is the last item of clothing you bought?

A Kate Sylvester Olympia blouse in evergreen. So loose and lovely to wear.

Any fashion disasters you'd care to mention?

Where to begin? The emerald green sequinned boob tube, the cream lederhosen in calf skin. But what about the triumphs? A gorgeous sari evening dress by Molyneux, a black velvet diamante frock by Adrienne Winkelmann to name a couple.

What is your beauty routine?

Hmmm, if only I had one. When I'm good I cleanse, tone and moisturise with Dr Hauschka. When I'm not, I at least try to remember to wipe off the mascara before I go to bed.

Who cuts your hair?

Guy Roberts at Vada.

What item of makeup would you be lost without?

It's the people who apply the makeup to me I would truly be lost without.

Who does the best handbags?

I have a large leather Coach bag that can fit two bottles of wine at any given time. I find that quite useful.

Favourite hotels?

Corstophine House in Dunedin. Beautiful house, gorgeous food, truly warm hosts.

What's your idea of relaxation?

Reading undisturbed, for an hour or two.

What was the last CD you bought?

Concord Dawn's Uprising. I used their music in a story I was editing.

What was the last book you read?

Magical Thinking by Augusten Burroughs. I was lucky enough to meet him during the Auckland Writers & Readers Festival and he was just like his books - great company.

Your biggest indulgence?

Jewellery made by Cathrine and Robert Stall at The Jeweller's Gallery in Mt Eden. Only one word for their work - exquisite.

What inspires you?

My extraordinary father, Charl Hirschfeld.