KEY POINTS:
Fashionable but practical is Lani Purkis' style philosophy, whether it be on stage as bass player for Elemeno P or offstage as a mum.
The 29-year-old will be hitting the road with her bandmates later this month when they tour the country to support their new self-titled album.
Expect to see Purkis in a combo of girly fashion, casual jeans, Doc Martens and carefully applied makeup, something that has become one of her guilty pleasures: "I've become the queen of the two minute smoky eye".
Who are your favourite designers?
I love Zambesi and NomD, and Meadowlark jewellery. Gucci and Dior for shoes, not that I can afford them!
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A new pair of jeans by Lee and a long waistcoat by Hailwood.
What's your biggest indulgence or guilty pleasure?
Makeup. I have heaps of makeup, mainly M.A.C. I don't wear it every day but I do like to spend at least an hour on it for stage, not that that ever eventuates.
Who does the best shoes?
Nike for trainers, or kicks as the cool people say. I like bright colours on my feet. My favourite heels ever were a bright red pair by Diana Ferrari, they were sturdy and built to last. That's what I deem important for heels, I need something I can play in without feeling like I will slip out of the back or lose my balance. I am yet to find another pair to equal them in performance.
Who or what inspires you and why?
Old movies or people on the street usually, I like seeing DIY hair colours and cuts, and incorporating that into something a bit more structured. In saying that, I have kept myself rather simple in recent years when it comes to my hair.
Your favourite accessory?
My steel cap Doc Martens. I constantly get comments on them, never good, but I can't help but wear them. It must be the 90s coming out in me.
Best fashion bargain?
I found this awesome leather jacket at Cash Converters once. It looked a million dollars on everybody, unfortunately that resulted in it being borrowed and never heard from again. I guess it must be looking perfect on somebody still. Wish it were me!
Who does the best jeans?
The best jeans I ever owned were the Jamie Thomas editions by Circa about five years ago. I require jeans with a bit of stretch for stage, skating jeans seem to do the trick but don't always keep their shape.
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
A simple black dress for all occasions. One that can be jazzed up with a neck scarf or played down with some slip-ons.
Your favourite shop?
Made. It's nice to go into a shop where every piece has a reason to exist. There is a common theme running through all the garments, modern and unique, so all the pieces fit together in some way or another. I like that you can go in and find a complete outfit to make you feel like a million dollars in minutes.
What is your beauty routine?
My beauty routine is very simple. Cetaphil for cleansing, no toner, and Clean & Clear moisturiser. I like a moisturiser that doesn't feel like it's there. I have spent money on big brands, they smell like perfume and make my skin tingle!
What do you wear to work?
My job as a mum requires little thought, I wear my dressing gown for the first part of most mornings. For Elemeno P I wear whatever I can to make myself feel presentable but it also has to be practical. My outfits are really dependent on my income and body shape. My wallet and body size have been yo-yoing for the past few years, I am piecing together a wardrobe at present that fits both.
When I was at high school I wore?
Skirts that resembled tea towels and Doc Martens. I would wear almost anything second-hand. I looked like I shopped in clothing bins!
What's your favourite fashion moment in a movie?
When all the gangs meet up in The Warriors. There's a gang for everybody in that movie. A piece of fashion for everyone.
Best city for fashion shopping in the world?
I bought heaps in New York City, I only had a few days to go shopping but I made the most of it. I haven't been to Tokyo but if I was a size 6 I would like to spend money there.
Any style icons?
I'm naturally drawn to the music world. Gwen Stefani has always captivated me. I don't dress like her but I love the way she makes bold choices, even if they backfire. I like people that take a risk with fashion. Plus I admire that she does her own hair and makeup.
