Fashion plate: Turet Knuefermann

Turet Knuefermann

Any designer involved with Fashion Week will tell you how busy things are in the lead-up. Turet Knuefermann is either a glutton for punishment or incredibly well organised because not only is her IPG label - known for sexy, sleek lines with Latin overtones - being shown at Fashion Week, she's also the NZ Idol stylist.

Why did you decide to do the styling for NZ Idol?

As I normally spend a lot of time working in solitude, it's a vast change working with a huge production team of fantastic, energetic people. I love it.

What have you learned from it?

It can be challenging to find suitable outfits for different body types. However, it's more difficult for the Idols to take on a new persona. The way they dressed in the past may not suit their new style of living in the public eye. As an idol they will need to be admired not only for their talent, but also for their appearance - sad but true.

Who are your favourite designers?

Reinaldo Lorenzo, Roberto Cavalli, Tom Ford and Gloria Coelho.

What's your favourite accessory?

Hair pieces. Sounds tacky, but if you're bored with fashion, feel like a change, then invest in a quality piece. It can completely change your look.

What is the last thing you bought?

Two Reinaldo Lorenzo dresses. They were horribly expensive, but unbelievably beautiful with luxurious fabrics.

What can't you live without?

Trilogy Cuvee and Jean Paul Gaultier Classic perfume.

Your biggest fashion indulgence?

The latest thing is black and white snakeskin stilettos. They're killers to wear, but they look stunning.

What inspires you?

My gorgeous, talented and witty friends and boyfriend who are always around despite my workaholic ways.

The essential item for summer?

Scented moisturisers, coconut anything to put you in a holiday mood even when you're at work, and feminine, beautiful dresses.

What's the must-have bag for summer?

Gucci belt bags. And the canvas and leather Iodice bag from my store tkstore.

Who does the best shoes?

Mi Piaci - affordable and fun.

And jeans?

tk jeans. They're Brazilian cut - low front, high back and very flattering.

Best fashion bargain?

Supre's cotton/lycra shoestring singlets. They're so cheap, nice quality, a great basic.

Is there anything you think the fashion police should ban? Personally, I don't like the 80s style flats with pointed toes that seem to be huge at the moment - so unflattering. Only a few can pull them off.

The one rule you always dress by?

Follow fashion trends if you wish, but only if it flatters your figure. Invest in great basics and the rest will follow. And don't buy clothing that's too small. Ignore size labels in clothing as different brands have different fits. Most importantly, buy what makes you feel beautiful, something that gives you a rush when you put it on.

Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?

Gisele Bundchen's.

What's your beauty routine?

Sabun olive soap from the health store for cleansing, Thermal Mud Moisturiser and Oracle's powder foundation with SPF is amazing. Clinique's High Impact Mascara, Eye Defining Liquid Eyeliner and L'Oreal Eyeshadow in white or silver for highlighting the eyes' inner corners.

Who would you most like to dress?

Kate Moss.