Congratulations on winning the summer style tip-off competition Laura! Can you describe your style?
I’m not sure what my style is but I do love Indie-type clothing, like David Bowie T-shirts and I LOVE all things vintage.

Who are your favourite New Zealand designers?
For our year 13 Soft Materials class this year, we had to choose a client to work for and I got in touch with designer Jimmy D, and totally loved working for him. He’s awesome and I love his range. I also love Trelise Cooper and NOM*d.

Favourite international designers?
I love Betsey Johnson, Anna Sui and John Galliano because their clothes are so different and out there. I love colour and love the idea of fantasy which these designers have introduced.

How does it feel to be the supreme summer stylist, and why do you think you won?
It feels great, I can’t believe I won! I don’t know how I won because some of the other tips were so useful, but I suppose when it comes to summer styling white is always a winner.

Can you give Runway Reporter readers a piece of fashion advice?
I think it’s important to know what colours suit you because colour can make such a huge difference to the effect of your outfit. Also, make sure you enhance your good features and don’t get too hung up on the parts of your body that you would prefer to hide.

What is your all time best buy?
My sunglasses have to be the best thing I have bought in a while because even though fashion changes, my sunglasses don’t seem to go out of style! They’ve lasted me a while and I don’t plan on replacing them any time soon! I think Oroton sunglasses are great because they noticeably protect your eyes from bright light as well as UV rays - and aren’t too expensive.

Who is your style icon and why?
I adore Audrey Hepburn’s sense of style because she was so classy and chic. I think it’s great to have a role model like her. She really reminds me of my grandmother because she seemed to have a lot of respect for herself which was evident in the way she dressed and styled herself.

What's always in your handbag?
Evian facial spray (especially in summer) because it’s so cooling and refreshing. I also always carry around a sample size of a favourite perfume (either Yves Saint Laurent Baby Doll or Moschino Hippy Fizz because they are light and fun).

What is your favourite shopping destination?
I love Newmarket for shopping, especially Nuffield Street (particularly Superette!) I don’t really like mall shopping, I much prefer shopping outdoors. Strip shopping is definitely the way to go.

Where's the best place to find a fashion bargain?
Little High Street off Queen Street (you can get there through Whitcoulls on Queen Street) is great for bargain shopping and has lots of kooky and different shops there. Also, K Road is a good place to find a bargain.

What is your favourite beauty product?
I’ve got really sensitive skin so Aqueous cream is a lifesaver. I use it as both a cleanser and moisturiser. I can’t live without Lucas’ Paw Paw Ointment because it can be used to soothe almost anything, especially lips! For mascara, Napoleon or Lancôme works perfectly for me and doesn’t irritate my skin. Also, for anyone with dry skin, try taking flaxseed oil capsules. They work so well and you can even break them apart and apply straight to the face for a face mask.

What's the last item of clothing you bought?
I recently bought a black Mexican-style skirt which I think would be great for summer as it can be easily dressed up for evenings. I’ve also recently bought a pair of high-waisted skinny jeans which are great if you don’t have a size zero waist.

What is your essential piece for Summer 08/09?
A nice cool white summer dress has got to be the essential piece. You can throw it over a bikini or wear it shopping or out to dinner. Also, sunblock and sunglasses are to be essential to stay healthy and protected from the sun.