Signature style: Laila Dookia

Laila Dookia. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Growing up in England and New Zealand, Laila Dookia dreamed of becoming a lawyer or foreign correspondent. However, as the years passed her life's journey led her to the New Zealand Broadcasting School in Christchurch. She was still studying in 2003 when music channel C4 made an open casting call for would-be presenters.

Her video didn't make the final cut but she continued to harass the powers that be at C4 to take her on as an intern. Persistence paid off and she landed a job presenting - she now hosts the Official NZ Top 40 weekly on C4 - a role combining her passion for music, broadcasting and fashion.

Who is your favourite fashion designer?

I'm lucky to be dressed by mine - Mala Brajkovic. Her clothes are feminine without being girly. They're playful and fit perfectly. She makes me want to wear dresses - not even my mum can do that.

What are your favourite accessories of the moment?

Belts and scarves.

What do you wear when you're hanging out at home?

Pyjamas.

What is your biggest fashion indulgence?

My vintage shoe fetish.

What is the last item of clothing you bought?

A lemon check summer frock from Dunedin.

What is your beauty routine?

The basics plus mascara, eyeliner and blush. I only wear foundation when I'm working.

What was the last CD you bought?

The Rolling Stones Goat's Head Soup.

What was the last book you read?

Set This House In Order by Matt Ruff.

Who cuts your hair?

Aleisha Tancock at Stephen Marr Ponsonby. She's incredibly skilled and listens to me vent.

What item of makeup would you be lost without?

M.A.C Teddy eye kohl and blush creme.

Who inspires you?

My father. He's strong, very wise, and someone I'll always look up to.

The essential item for summer?

Sunscreen made for children - it's thicker and works better.

Favourite colour?

Green.

Favourite store?

The markets in Mauritius, as long as you're up for a haggle.

What's your idea of relaxation?

A pot of Earl Grey with crepes at Bouchon, or wine with the girls.

What's your favourite look?

The one on my boyfriend's face when he catches me wearing his T-shirts.

Best outfit?

My woollen party dress with sparkles I wore when I was 6.

Worst fashion mistake?

The matching dungarees my twin brother and I wore as kids.

Best fashion bargain?

A retro belt I picked up for $3.