Fashion plate: Melissa Bult

Melissa Bult in Mala Brajkovic. Picture / Babiche Martens

To say Melissa Bult is busy is an understatement. The 27-year-old not only works fulltime at Pead PR, she also runs her Angel Guidance business, which involves naturopathic work, clairvoyant and angelic readings and spiritually based life coaching.

What's more, she's a trained makeup artist and was a top five finalist in Miss World New Zealand in 2002. She won the gown of the evening section with her own design. "I've been obsessed with fashion for as long as I can remember."

Who are your favourite designers?

I'm a huge fan of Mala Brajkovic, but I also love Miss Crabb, Karen Walker, Cybele and Australian designers Camilla and Marc and Alice McCall. My international designer of choice is Stella McCartney.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

A white, high-waisted, A-line cord skirt from Mala Brajkovic's new summer range. It is so cute.

What's your biggest indulgence?

I buy lots and lots of dresses, I think I have about 25 in my wardrobe. I also love Chanel nail polish and designer sunglasses.

Who or what inspires you?

My mother has always inspired me, she always looks fantastic. I definitely got my shopping habits and sense of style from my mother. Russh magazine is great for inspiration and I am always inspired by Deborah Harry from Blondie as she is such a fashion icon. Also, although a cliche, I am a Sienna Miller fan. It's a shame she has been so copied by the chain stores.

Your favourite accessory?

I am going through a huge necklace phase. I just got a wishbone necklace from Sportsgirl and a snake necklace from Mala Brajkovic. I also wear a quartz crystal pendant a lot as it looks good and it helps me in my spiritual work.

Best fashion bargain?

A great black dress from Fast & Loose in K Rd. It is a Christian Dior copy from the 80s. It only cost me $65 and every time I wear it people comment on it.

Who does the best shoes?

I am not much of a shoe fanatic but I love boots, and find I can pick up great boots from Tony Bianco at Hannahs and from Smith & Caughey's. I tend to buy shoes from Overland and buy quite a few when I go to Sydney as they have such a good range.

The best jeans?

Definitely Sass & Bide. They do extra long jeans which is perfect for me and their cut always fits me. I also like Karen Walker jeans.

What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?

A dress that makes you feel and look amazing - the kind of dress you don't need but you just have to have. If nothing else, fashion should always be fun and dresses are so much fun to wear.

Your favourite shop?

Mala Brajkovic is my favourite. I want to buy something every time I go there. Then Miss Crabb. And I love spending time at Smith & Caughey's Queen St store. I am also a big fan of Fast & Loose as they always have such a great range.

What is your beauty routine?

I have always looked after my skin really well and I use some Origins skincare. I especially love their White Tea Skin Guardian products and I use Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser. I wear makeup every day and really enjoy using M.A.C products, but I also love Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation because it wears so well, and L'Oreal mascaras are the best for such a good price. The best part of my beauty routine is to have my hair done by Jason at Mancini Hair Design. He's fantastic.

Your best beauty tip?

As a naturopath I would say look after your body by drinking lots of water and avoiding alcohol, cigarettes and junk food. Meditation helps me feel and look my best. I believe if you are genuinely happy it keeps you looking young and beautiful.

Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?

Deborah Harry's from her early Blondie days. She had such a unique sense of style that is both sexy and fun.

Is there anything you'd never wear?

The top platform sandals that are showing up this season. I don't think they are very flattering or comfortable.