On the cutting edge of fashion
18.05.12
Donielle Brooke launched jewellery label Eyes of Common in 2010 with Aidan Bartlett, drawing inspiration from "love and heartache, bikers, tattoos and the 80s". For her own style, the designer, who is also a senior colourist at Stephen Marr Takapuna, is inspired by everything from her mother's wardrobe to stylish colleagues, to New Zealand fashion.
My mum has always had the most amazing wardrobe, because at 17 she started modelling and did so for years. She had a massive wardrobe and as a young girl it felt almost magical sneaking into her room and going through her stuff. Sometimes I would hope it would turn into The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe and I'd go through to Narnia.
I have claimed two items from Mum's wardrobe. One was bought from Workshop about 20 years ago, when it was called Street Life; a mustard-green long pleated skirt. I love it. The other was a top called a "choirboy" shirt years ago - plain with buttons down the back, and crochet floral at the front. Mum borrowed it off her mother's friend when she was at college and never gave it back. Now it's all mine and still looks brand new. But I think my most treasured item is my Zambesi bustier that I wore to my 21st three years ago - it's amazing and I'll never fall out of love with it.
Source: New Zealand Herald