KEY POINTS:
New Zealand Fashion Week may seem to be all about glamour, pretty frocks and champagne-swilling, but spare a thought for those working behind the scenes in two weeks' time. Tess Custance is just one of the many people who will be working long hours to make sure the slick fashion shows run according to plan.
The 24-year-old is a public relations assistant at fashion PR agency Mint Condition, which is looking after the production of nine shows. In the lead-up to the week, Custance has been helping with everything from model fittings to writing press releases, but will have a much more visible role at the shows.
"I'll be working front-of-house during Fashion Week, so I will have to look presentable. On my list is my Diane von Furstenberg black dress and boots, because they're classic and easy!"
Born in Melbourne, Custance recently moved to Auckland after studying fashion promotion at the London College of Fashion. Now her role at Mint Condition means she's in the thick of seeing collections and shows come to life.
Who are your favourite designers?
I haven't been in Auckland long, but after visiting a few times and working at NZ Fashion Week 2007, I quite liked Cybele and Deborah Sweeney's autumn/winter 2008 collections, and Jaeha have some great pieces. I also like Alice McCall, Alice Temperley and Paul & Joe.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
An Alice McCall for Topshop dress before I left Britain.
Your favourite accessory?
It's a close call between handbags and shoes. At the moment I can't get enough of my boots by The Jacksons of Notting Hill.
Best fashion bargain?
A gorgeous pair of Rupert Sanderson shoes that I found when shopping in Harrods in London that were reduced from nearly 400 to 80. I couldn't believe my luck!
Who does the best shoes?
I do really like Kurt Geiger shoes because they always fit really well, are never painful and are affordable. Also, I love Sergio Rossi, Miu Miu and Chloe.
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
A little black dress.
Your best beauty tip?
Pawpaw ointment on dry patches - lips, elbows, cuticles, etc. And a bit of luminous liquid makeup or white eye shadow under your brow line and cheek bones.
What can't you live without?
My eyeliner and mascara.
What was the biggest fashion/beauty/hair mistake you have ever made?
I had straight hair when I was young, and by my teens I had grown bored of it, so I got a perm for my 13th birthday. My hair has never been the same since.
Any style icons?
I like to mix it up a bit, so on my list would be Rachel Bilson, Cameron Diaz, Kate Hudson. Oh, and of course Kate Moss, she always looks amazing.
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
Kate Moss, just because I think her wardrobe would have so many amazing pieces to choose from.
Favorite fashion-y movie?
I would have to say Sex and The City is my all-time favourite. I did love Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada too.
Dress to impress whom?
I dress for myself. I think as long as you feel confident in what you're wearing that's all that matters.
What is your favourite shop?
Topshop without a doubt! Also Space NK, a skincare and cosmetics store in Britain with an endless selection of beautiful products. I could spend hours in there.
