Signature style: Marina Berber

Marina Berber says a good pair of shoes and a bag can make an outfit. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Marina Berber's interest in fashion is reflected in her wardrobe, which has a 50s retro influence but always with a contemporary edge.

After arriving in New Zealand 12 years ago from Belgrade (in the former Yugoslavia), she studied film, television and media before working in the fashion industry for several years as a retail manager and buyer. Now marketing manager of Two Double Seven in Newmarket, she travels back to Europe as often as she can.

"Serbia and Montenegro are the world's best-kept secret," she says.

Who are your favourite fashion designers?

Scanlan & Theodore (especially love their high-waisted skirts this winter), Karen Walker (her more classic pieces and her jewellery), Mad Cortes (available at Unity Collection in Newmarket), Marc Jacobs.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

A stunning French lingerie set from Rococco.

What is your favourite accessory at the moment?

My antique gold drop, knot necklace with two tiny elephants which I found in my mum's jewellery box.

What do you wear to work?

High-waisted pencil skirts or wide pants, well-fitted shirts with cardigans and thin belts. I am mesmerised with 50s glamour. I enjoy wearing scarves as well, around my waist, my neck.

What is your beauty routine?

I use Dermalogica special cleansing gel, and moisturise with Dermalogica active cream, with a couple of drops of Dermalogica solar defence booster added, to keep my skin protected.
What can't you live without?

Lucas papaw ointment and L'Occitane hand cream.

Who does the best handbags?

Mulberry without a doubt - amazing pebbled leathers that seem to improve with wear.

Who inspires you?

A number of different people, all for different reasons, some who are still in my life and those who have taught me a lot and are no longer around. It's just a collage of incredible memories and everyday experiences that continue to stimulate creativity and drive.

The essential item for winter?

A pair of fine-toed Furla equestrian boots in chocolate ostrich leather from Scarpa.

What are the staple pieces for a good wardrobe?

It's all in the shoes and bags. A good pair of heels and a stunning bag can make just about any outfit look great.

What is your failsafe look on days when you simply have nothing to wear?

A dress, any dress.

Favourite colour?

Lemon, especially in summer. My father comes from the Dalmatian coast and, taking after that side of the family, I tend to be a little more olive than most Serbians.

Favourite store at the moment?

There are many but top of the list is Sabine. I can't seem to walk past without going in. It's one of those rare places where you can run in five minutes before closing time in a panic and find just the thing you've spent all day looking for.

What's your biggest indulgence?

Having Abby from Lucy and the Powder Room wrap my feet in paraffin wax then paint my toes in my favourite polish, Pinking of You. Then whipping downstairs to Stephen Marr and having the amazing Charlotte Chevallier tend to my hair. It always leaves me feeling gorgeous.

What's your favourite look?

I don't think I could pick just one. It may sound like a bit of a cliche but my clothes very much reflect my mood. Sometimes I wear things that are frilly and girlie, other times, strong and tailored, occasionally a little alternative. My wardrobe is a real fusion of different looks.

Best outfit ever?

A gorgeous 50s lemon dress I picked up in a random little side-street boutique while in Austria last year.

Best fashion bargain?

My Diane von Furstenberg evening dress which I got for $100 in a sale. It's the perfect cut for me, a very simple shirt dress with stunning buttons and a thin waist belt.