She may only be 16, but Lili Sumner's tastes are all grown up.
With a penchant for opshopping and drawing inspiration from decades previous, Lili Sumner's style is largely influenced by the past. The 16-year-old, who has been modelling for two years, describes her style as "lots of black, sheer, velvet, faux fur and hats"; and names model and Mick Jagger offspring Georgia May Jagger as one of the most stylish, well-known teenagers. Demonstrating that style may well be genetic, Sumner's mother is director and producer Barbara Sumner Burstyn, who has previously featured as a Viva Fashion Plate. Her grandmother influenced her interest in fashion as well. "When I was at primary school she would take me out shopping with her at Kirkcaldie & Stains in Wellington. I liked to see people out shopping and look at the clothes they were wearing." The style-savvy teen tells us more about her eclectic look.
Who are your favourite designers or labels?
In New Zealand I like Lonely Hearts because they're a lovely team of people and their clothes are so fresh. Also Twenty-seven Names, Jimmy D and Stolen Girlfriends Club, among others. Overseas, I love Proenza Schouler, Ellery and Pamela Love jewellery.
What was the last item of clothing or accessory you bought?
It was a rose quartz crystal ring that I found on Trade Me.
What item of clothing or accessory do you want to buy next?
I'm thinking about buying a bikini from Maurie and Eve for summer.
Best fashion bargain?
Small town opshops.
Your favourite shop?
Wasteland in LA, because it's full of treasure.
What's your fragrance?
I sometimes use coconut or jasmine oil but mostly I smell like my shampoo.
Favourite fashion-y movie, or fashion moment in film?
Desperately Seeking Susan, hands down best fashion film ever.
How do you define the word "fashionable", what does it mean to you?
Fashionable to me is someone who isn't wearing what's "in" but looks hot and original whether they're wearing a designer piece or something they've made or bought second-hand. That is what real fashion is about to me.
Who is your ultimate fashion plate?
[Model] Abbey Lee Kershaw - definition of boho.
Most cherished item?
A gold bracelet with my name engraved inside that I hardly ever take off. I think it was given to Mum by my dad when I was born but now it's mine.
Best sartorial advice you ever had?
"Dress only for yourself."
What is your fashion obsession?
Rings, rings, rings.
Describe the best outfit you've ever worn.
The other day I was wearing a floor-length sheer maxi dress, a hat and Janis Joplin style glasses - very hippie-witch/Twin Peaks.
What is your favourite decade, style-wise?
1960s New York. I just read Just Kids by Patti Smith. During that time in New York there was a merging of fashion, art and music. There were Andy Warhol's superstars, addicts and artists. People like Lou Reed and Nico were hanging out. All disgustingly cool.
Your favourite stylish place?
The streets of New York, although I haven't been there yet...
