Signature style: Rebecca Elias

Rebecca Elias lives for her family and Vespas. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Rebecca Elias, who co-owns Auckland boutique hair salon Helmut with her hairdresser husband Carlos, has her work cut out - and more.

When she is not in the salon, she juggles being mum to Isiah, 7, and Eli, 2, with launching her architectural design business.

"I have many roles to fulfil in one day ... business girl, Vespa rider, mummy, cook, cleaner and role model, so I have mastered a look that comfortably merges from one to the other without sacrificing comfort or innovation."

Who are your favourite designers?

Miss Crabb in Ponsonby. Tsubi do some great everyday garments, and Lonely Hearts Club seem to suit my fashion philosophies.

What's your favourite fashion accessory of the moment?

My long, sulphur-soaked silver chain by Adam Petry with a detailed miniature chainsaw from Illicit and a big vintage key from an antique shop in Tirau.

What is your biggest indulgence?

Davines skin care which we sell at the salon. It's Italian, predominantly vegetable-based. Also, M.A.C eye-colour palettes.

What was the latest item of clothing you bought?

A Lonely Hearts Club top from Girl boutique in St Kevin's Arcade. It's a rose-printed singlet top.

What do you wear to work?

I have a lot of flexibility to push my own boundaries and dress up.

What can't you live without?

My beautiful family and my two Vespas - vintage and sexy.

Who does the best handbags?

I like Deadly Pony bags. I have bought a few from Miss Crabb and Superette, they are one-offs and well crafted - and New Zealand-made, which is a bonus for me.

What was the latest CD you bought?

Working Class Hero, the definitive Lennon. Oh Yoko, it's so good.

What was the last book you read?

A Parisian Affair, by Guy de Maupassant - a 19th-century book of short love stories.

Who cuts your hair?

Carlos at Helmut, of course. His passion surpasses all expectation when it comes to hair.

What do you wear when you are relaxing at home?

I wear the same outfit at work and at home. I have become good at dressing comfortably but never surrendering my own style. I always need to feel fresh for our clients and staff, and be able to jump on my Vespa, pick up my son from school, and cook dinner. I am the champ of super groovy comfort.

What items of make-up would you be lost without?

My Benefit Hoola bronzer and my M.A.C chocolate eye pencil and chocolate mascara.

Who inspires you?

People who fight for their beliefs and exercise a healthy belief system that can benefit others. Listening to music also inspires me - political statements poetically delivered make all the difference.

Any style icons?

I love Ray Eames, Vivienne Westwood, Kristine Crabb.

What inspires you?

For me it's about fashion, furniture, sound and film.

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

A Tsubi T-shirt and something from my Miss Crabb collection. And my trusty Fast & Loose boots.

Favourite store of the moment?

Mixt in Kingsland. I am an avid retro collector and proud of my home. Style should resonate throughout all aspects of your life. Mixt have some amazing pieces, from the 50s through to the present.

What's your idea of relaxation?

Going for a ride on a beautiful day on one of my Vespas. It's the best way to truly feel nature, and the pleasure of riding something so stylish is peaceful and relaxing.

What's your biggest indulgence?

Food and wine, especially wine. I go to Andrews Wine & Co on New North Rd. I love the feeling of knowing I have beautiful wines waiting to deliver their full potential but also knowing I have to be patient.

Best outfit ever?

My super-stylish Miss Crabb Who is Dead Martin black silk appliqued Buckaroo dress.

Worst fashion or beauty mistake?

Having dated or unhealthy hair.

Best fashion bargain?

My Jamie cardigan in navy and white stripes I bought from the Ponsonby Scotties. It is so cute and was really reasonably priced at $98.