Signature style: Myken Stewart

Matching underwear is the basis for a good wardrobe, says Myken Stewart. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Myken Stewart is the brand manager for New Zealand Fashion Week. Although it's a small team with everyone lending a hand, mother Pieter deals with the designers and Myken is responsible for bringing in the cash.

She completed a psychology degree and spent 10 years away from New Zealand, then her mother lured her back home three years ago to do the job.

"I had been doing jobs overseas that didn't require any long-term commitment so this has been a shock, but a good one."

Who are your favourite fashion designers?

The ones who look after me - Hailwood, Zambesi, Karen Walker, Workshop, Insidious Fix, and Gravis shoes.

What do you wear to work?

Whatever I want but usually Workshop jeans and some T-shirt. If I'm trying to make a deal I'll throw on a pair of heels on for a few hours.

What is your favourite accessory of the moment?

My dog lead so I can keep my labrador under control.

What are the staple pieces for a good wardrobe?

There is no wardrobe without good - preferably matching - underwear. The rest of it kind of follows.

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

The ideal would be to stay at home with nothing on, but since that's not an option, probably the same thing I wear every day - Workshop jeans, Elle Macpherson underwear, a Hailwood T-shirt, and my Gravis trainers.

What was your biggest fashion indulgence?

Saving the money I'd spend on fashion to go travelling. I'm more inclined to shop on holiday when there's time.

What is the last item of clothing you bought?

Skinny jeans from Workshop. Then I bought another pair in a different colour.

Any fashion disasters?

If anyone went to trance parties in Goa [India] about 12 years ago they would know what fluoro really means and understand the disaster. Luckily it was contained in the region.

Favourite hotels?

The Hilton.

But to be swept away, I wouldn't say no to a weekend in Eichardts Private Hotel in Queenstown or, for some fun, The Standard in Hollywood.

What's your idea of relaxation?

Lying around with a book, good wine and food. Walking the dog on the beach.

What's your biggest indulgence?

Travelling. All my money is saved for the trips I plan away each year.

What is your beauty routine?

Whatever Jenny from Beauty on Ponsonby suggests. I'm sick of buying the whole set from the department store. She sorts me out according to what's going on with my skin. Guinot is great and Ultra C cream from Ultraceuticals is the best moisturiser I've come across.

What can't you live without?

My family, which includes my dog, and my great friends.

Who does the best handbags?

Saben. I can fit stuff in and get it out.

What was the last CD you bought?

Gwen Stefani's love angel music baby.

What was the last book you read?

The Autobiography of Henry VIII by Margaret George.

Who cuts your hair?

Gareth Chitty, Stephen Marr Ponsonby.

What item of makeup would you be lost without?

As a rule I don't really wear makeup, but that M. A. C. Strobe Cream is the bomb.