Salasai's Kelly Watson relishes her easy sense of style.
Kelly Watson is all about low-maintenance style, describing her look as tomboyish and simple but experimental. "My style can be all over the place, with a lot of black." Watson is the sales manager for Salasai who has recently moved from Hawkes Bay to Auckland where she now also works in a carpet business with her partner. Her role at Salasai continues as she works with designer Kirsha Whitcher and her team to produce next week's show at the Hilton. Whitcher describes Watson's work with the label as all-encompassing, heading sales meetings, helping to sort music for shows, name collections, shoot lookbooks, and perhaps most importantly, being a good friend. "Kelly has a major hand in all things Salasai, her personal style being so relevant to us. She knows how to put things together and has a natural knack of not looking trend-based, just casually chic with a hot tomboy edge." Watson tells us more.
What are you wearing right now?
A Salasai "Knot" dress with Zambesi tights and Kenneth Cole wedges.
Who are your favourite designers?
Alexander Wang and Alexander McQueen - geniuses.
Who or what inspires you and your style?
I adore Patti Smith, her style is all her own. I think model Irina Lazareanu is a woman who also wears it well. They both look comfortable and low-maintenance.
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
A man-style black tuxedo jacket.
Is there anything you'd never wear?
Never say never; dress up parties always catch me wearing something I'd sworn I never would.
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
Irina Lazareanu because she would have everything from every genre, every designer and every country.
Most cherished item?
My Salasai X-knit dress. It's handmade, so each one is different. It was designed by my magnificent friend and gifted to me by my mother-in-law ... perfect.
Most underrated item in fashion?
Gloves. I wish they were compulsory.
Your personal style quirk?
I wear simple clothes but normally also have something on that could be perceived as wrong.
What is your favourite decade, style-wise?
I'm happy in this decade of fashion. I think it has the best of other decades, some amazing fabrics, magnificent designers and accessibility.
One rule you always dress by?
The clothes have to be comfortable and almost always appropriate.
You feel best wearing?
Comfortable clothes, Salasai and flat shoes.
Favourite fashion-y movie, or fashion moment in film?
Marie Antoinette has some amazing costuming. Otherwise Olivia Newton John in her leathers is still top.
What's in your handbag?
Jane Iredale lip drink. It's amazing. Plus an iPhone, iPod, cash, a notebook and a Vivid.
How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
About 30 minutes if I know what I'm going to wear.
Your favourite shop?
I often lose track of time inside vintage furniture stores.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A Karen Walker blazer.
What do you want to buy next?
I've got my eyes on a new perfume, but I'm not telling which one. I also want to find the perfect pair of summer sandals.
